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WHY SUDDEN AXE FOR BOAT DUTY?

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net

THE Opposition last night accused the government of “sneaking” in a tax break for the rich by ordering Customs to eliminate the ten percent duty rate on so-called “pleasure vessels” outside the normal Budget process.

Kwasi Thompson, former Minister of State for Finance, challenged the legal and policy basis for the decision to implement the tax cut after it was seemingly omitted from the 2022-2023 Budget by mistake.

The revelation was contained in a June 23, 2022, memorandum sent to the Customs comptroller by financial secretary Simon

Wilson, obtained and subsequently released by Mr Thompson and the Free National Movement.

“I am directed to advise that, as a result of the change to the rate of duty on pleasure craft vessels inadvertently being omitted from the Budget measure sheet, the Customs Department is now instructed to treat the following tariff heading as duty-free until the subsequent amendment to the Tariff Act is done during the next Budget exercise,” Mr Wilson wrote.

“All pleasure vessels that currently attract a ten percent rate of duty in Chapter 89 of the Tariff Act under Tariff Heading 8903 are now approved for a dutyfree rate of duty.”

FULL STORY - SEE BUSINESS

NATIONAL Security Wayne Munroe said yesterday officials will be ready to hold a by-election should embattled Long Island MP Adrian Gibson resign his seat in the House of Assembly.

As there has been no indication to date regarding whether the MP will

step down, Mr Munroe said Mr Gibson must weigh his sense of duty and honour to make the right decision.

This comes as Mr Gibson will stand trial in reference to numerous charges related to corruption stemming from his time as executive chairman of the Water and Sewerage chairman under the former Minnis administration.

SEE PAGE FIVE

By KHRISNA RUSSELL Tribune Chief Reporter krussell@tribunemedia.net ROYAL Bahamas Defence Force marine seaman Joevonte Miller, who was gunned down on Thursday night, was just weeks away from leaving the force, according to National Security Minister Wayne Munroe yesterday.

Miller had asked to be discharged and it was to take effect in August.

However, he was robbed of his request when he was ambushed on Thursday night by three armed men as he approached the door of his home at Pineyard Road.

The victim, according to police, attempted to escape the assailants, but was pursued and collapsed.

SEE PAGE FOUR

PMH CHILD ‘INCIDENT’ IS PROBED

BY POLICE

By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net

GIBSON SHOULD WEIGH HIS ‘DUTY AND HONOUR’

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

SLAIN MARINE WAS DUE TO LEAVE FORCE

JAZZ SHOWS HIS COLOURS JAZZ Chisholm Jr shows off his Bahamian colours at the Bahamian Heritage Night held at the Miami Marlins stadium on Saturday. The event was a celebration of the relationship between the franchise and Teh Bahamas. See SPORTS section for the full story.

CRASH FATALITY WAS THROWN FROM PLANE

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A NEW report has recalled the final harrowing moments before a small plane crashed at Long Island, ejecting and ultimately killing a motherof-one who was sitting at the rear of the aircraft.

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Authority of The Bahamas in its report on the June 5 crash further noted that the pilot was

THE CRASH in Long Island. issued an Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) with airplane-single and multiengine land and instrument airplane ratings.

Further, according to records obtained from the Federal Aviation Administration of the United States, the pilot - Brad McPhee – was in possession of a first class medical certificate issued in May 2016.

In its investigation of the tragedy, AAIA conducted an onsite investigation which found that based on the distance from the runway of departure and the crash site the plane SEE PAGE FIVE

Nassau & Bahama Islands’ Leading Newspaper

EQUALITY Bahamas has called for a full investigation into an incident at the Princess Margaret Hospital involving a minor, while it accused the institution of failing to maintain a safe environment.

While the Public Hospitals Authority and the hospital acknowledged an alleged incident involving the minor, which occurred on Friday, there was no mention made of what was alleged to have taken place.

There were some reports on social media that claimed the assault was of a sexual nature.

SEE PAGE THREE

INSIGHT AMBITIONS UNFULFILLED - AND NOT GETTING BETTER SOON SEE PAGE NINE

PAGE 2, Monday, June 27, 2022

THE TRIBUNE

MEDICAL and administration staff at the Regional HIV Testing Day held in Pompey Square on Friday.

Photos: Moise Amisial

HIV testing event held in Pompey Square

By JADE RUSSELL jrussell@tribunemedia.net BAHAMIANS from all walks of life gathered in Pompey Square for Regional HIV Testing Day (RTD) on Friday.

The annual event provided free HIV testing to the public in an attempt to raise awareness of the disease.

Additionally, healthy lifestyle counselling, glucose and cholesterol screenings, blood pressure readings, and preventative tools were also offered.

The National HIV/AIDS centre’s acting manager director, Beverly Boyd, said: “One of our priorities is counselling and testing.

We need persons to know their status, in knowing their status our priority is to stop HIV.” Ms Boyd stressed that by persons seeking testing and counselling they are able to make wiser decisions on their health.

“We want to know those who are positive and bring them into care. We want to educate those who are negative how to stay negative,” she said.

The stigma surrounding HIV has contributed to the spread of the disease because individuals are afraid to seek treatment.

When asked about the stigma, Ms Boyd said: “There is a stigma, it seems not to be going away.

Probably because it has something to do with sexuality,” she added.

However, The Bahamas National HIV/AIDS programme is hoping to break that stigma and to end the

HIV epidemic. According to Dr Nikkiah Forbes, the director of the National HIV/AIDS Programme in the Bahamas, normalising HIV testing is part of addressing the epidemic.

Some of those taking part told The Tribune why it was important for them to get tested.

One said: “I think everybody here in the Commonwealth of The Bahamas from all ages of 18 and over should take advantage of this free testing. So at least you will know your status, even if you’re in a relationship or had been in a past relationship you should at least know your status for your own well- being.”

Another resident responded: “Honestly speaking it’s available whereas trying to find time or take time off to go to a clinic to get this done. This is here now so I can go on my lunch break real quick and then back to the office.”

And another participant in the event said it was important to get tested so that persons can get their health together and live a long life.

The National HIV/AIDS Programme urges persons to get tested so they can know their status. Bridgette Curtis, a member of the programme, said the COVID-19 pandemic did have an impact on RTD. However, the annual event was able to be held this year and raise awareness for HIV testing. Ms Curtis added that it is important for every person to know their HIV status so they can take the necessary steps forward.

THE TRIBUNE

Monday, June 27, 2022, PAGE 3

MAN SHOT DEAD ON EAST STREET

By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net

THE SCENE of Friday’s murder at a plaza on East Street.

A MAN who went to an East Street plaza to pick up someone was fatally shot on Friday.

A woman, who claimed to be the victim’s sister, said the family was grieving. She described her brother as a “sweetheart”.

Police have not officially released his identity, but The Tribune understands he is Walter Lockhart.

“He was always sweet to me,” the woman who did not want to be named told The Tribune. “I don’t know what other people would say, but that’s my image of him.”

Police press liaison Superintendent Audley Peters told The Tribune yesterday that after 7pm police were called to a plaza on East Street south of Robinson Road as a result of a shooting incident.

“The officers arrived, they met a male lying in the

parking lot suffering from wounds that appear to be gunshots. He was later seen by technicians as EMS pronounced him lifeless on the scene,” he said.

“The information is that he was along a sidewalk and was approached by a gunman who shot him several times. The gunman entered the vehicle and that vehicle left the parking lot of the plaza.”

He added: “He went into the plaza to collect someone.

“We don’t have any leads at this time that we can conclusively say are significant, but we appeal to members of the public who have any information to assist us with this investigation.”

Supt Peters said that the victim was in his mid-30s.

Police are asking anyone who might have information to contact them at Criminal Investigations Department at 502-9991/2, Crime Stoppers at 328-TIPS (8477) or the nearest police station.

CONNECTICUT Sun forward Jonquel Jones pictured last month.

Photo: John Minchillo/AP

Photo: Moise Amisial

Forum gives support to Jonquel

By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS lmunnings@tribunemedia.net THE president and director of local LGBTQIA+ group the DeMarco Foundation has voiced support for Jonquel Jones after the WNBA star said her sexuality hindered her marketability.

Alexis DeMarco said there are no policies to protect members of the LGBTQIA+ community in The Bahamas.

In a feature with ESPN’s Katie Barnes last week, reigning WNBA MVP and Connecticut Sun forward Jones said she believed her relationship with The Bahamas Telecommunications Company ended due to her openly identifying as a lesbian and her “non-traditionally feminine” style of dress.

“Jones believes her decision to embrace her identity as a lesbian and dress more authentically came with material consequences,” Barnes wrote. “The Bahamas Telecommunications Co., she says, opted not to renew her contract even though her basketball performance in the United

States and overseas had improved.”

DeMarco said the opportunity allowed Jones to use her platform to bring awareness to her struggle as an individual.

She believes Jones’ situation is a good opportunity for the country to acknowledge some communities they have left behind.

“In her situation, I feel she used the opportunity not so much about BTC, it was more talking about her struggle within herself as it relates to being a person,” DeMarco said. “She had a personal journey and she struggled with that personal journey.”

Following the publication of the ESPN article, BTC issued a statement refuting those claims.

“BTC has a strong culture supporting equality, diversity, and inclusion.

As a company, we do not discriminate against the LGBTQIA+ community in any form or manner,” the statement said.

“BTC currently has an endorsement contract with Olympian Steven Gardiner.

All endorsement contracts are executed for a specific

period of time.”

DeMarco encouraged Jones to continue to share her story through her platform, while standing up for herself.

“I will say continue being yourself, continue standing up for your human rights, continue standing up for you and only you can share your story and only you can own your story,” Ms DeMarco said.

She hopes Bahamians begin to acknowledge the LGBTQIA+ community, as its members deserve the same rights as anyone else.

“LGBTQIA+ Bahamians do exist – we have a vast amount of people leaving this country every day for various reasons, for their pursuit of happiness, for what makes them happy,” she said. “My advice to Bahamians is let’s live and let live.”

The De DeMarco Foundation advocates for the human rights of LGBTQIA+ Bahamians to be able to be included in every aspect of life.

This includes access to justice, access to healthcare, access to education and access to employment among other things.

PMH CHILD ‘INCIDENT’ IS PROBED BY POLICE from page one These reports were unconfirmed up to press time and police had very little to say of the matter when contacted yesterday.

However, National Security Minister Wayne Munroe told The Tribune yesterday he was informed that what actually happened did not align with reports.

“The deputy commissioner (Clayton Fernander) was to speak to it,” Mr Munroe said yesterday.

“They are investigating it.

I’ve seen reports. He indicated to me that it’s not necessarily in line with what is reported and you can get the actual details from him.”

Mr Fernander did not respond to inquiries yesterday.

In its statement over the weekend, PHA said: “The Public Hospitals Authority acknowledges an alleged

incident involving a minor, which occurred on June 24th, 2022, at the Princess Margaret Hospital.

“Per our policy, this matter has been referred to the Royal Bahamas Police Force for investigation and an internal inquiry is underway into the alleged incident. The PHA remains committed to the delivery of safe, quality care to all of our patients, especially minors.

Any further inquiries with respect to this matter should be referred to the appropriate authorities.”

Advocacy group Equality Bahamas told The Tribune yesterday that there needed to be a full investigation into the incident.

“There needs to be a full investigation into the incident to determine not only what happened, but how because the institution has failed to maintain a safe environment and protect a patient who is a minor,” the

organisation told The Tribune yesterday.

“In addition to identifying and prosecuting the perpetrator, the minor needs to be properly treated and provided with psychosocial support. The general public must be reminded, in the midst of outrage, that a minor is being discussed and that person and their loved ones have access to this discourse, likely to include misinformation, which can be harmful and disruptive to access to justice and healing.

“Further, it is critical that we hold institutions accountable for what occurs on their premises and see to it that safeguards are implemented. There should be no opportunity to violate a child anywhere.”

The Tribune understands the incident did not occur within the hospital building but at an outside tented holding area for COVID patients.

PAGE 4, Monday, June 27, 2022

THE TRIBUNE

Slain marine was due to leave force from page one Police were called to the scene at around 8pm as a result of the shooting.

“The police are investigating,” Mr Munroe said yesterday following an event hosted by the Yellow Elder Community Association. “At the moment there isn’t anything that indicates that it’s related to his job. He had asked to be discharged and that was coming up in August, but at this moment it doesn’t appear that it’s related to his job.

“The police are still investigating and once they are complete they will brief me on the circumstances.”

He also said: “Anyone who is murdered that is an untimely death. We call it a sudden death. Our hearts go out to anyone who is murdered and the family of anyone who is murdered and for that matter anyone who dies. Death is certain.

When we’re born we start to die but nobody expects it.

“But it’s particularly unwelcome when it’s by violence.”

The RBDF extended condolences to the marine seaman’s family on Friday and spoke of his life.

He grew up on the island of Exuma in the settlement of Black Point, where he was “loved and cherished” by family and friends, the statement said.

“He attended the Black Point All Age School in 2001 and graduated with honours in 2012; he later relocated to New Providence where he attended Doris Johnson High School in 2012 and successfully completed his secondary education in 2014,” a statement on the RBDF Facebook page said.

According to the statement, Miller enlisted in the RBDF as a marine recruit and proud member of new entry 55 on January 8, 2018.

The statement said: “He and 119 recruits set out on a grueling and challenging mission to become fullfledged marines and service men to the country after a

17 weeks programme.”

“After successfully completing his New Entry training, Marine Seaman Miller was drafted to the seagoing area of the force known as the Squadron Department where he became a member of HMBS P-45.”

The officer was described as a “versatile marine” as he diligently executed his duties as a deckhand, radio operator, and quartermaster.

“The Commander of the Defence Force, Commodore Dr Raymond King, extends sincerest condolences on behalf of the members of his Executive Command, Officers, Senior Enlisted, and Union Enlisted the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, to the family members, loved ones, and friends of the late Marine Seaman Joevonte Miller.

“May God’s grace and richest blessings help the family find comfort and peace during their time of bereavement,” the statement said.

MARINE seaman Joevonte Miller.

Independence events revealed

Funeral Service For

Sean D. Pratt L.F.D&E, C.E.O

Chief Superintendent Weymond Kelsey Demeritte, 52 of #3 Angel Court, Golden Dates #2, will be held on Wednesday, June 29th, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. at Evangelistic Temple, Collins Avenue. Officiating will be Chaplain of Police Force Father.

Steven Davies, Assisted by Pastor Alan Strachan and Ednal Minnis. Interment will follow at Lakeview Gardens, Gladstone Road, Nassau, Bahamas.

Left to cherish his memories are his, Mother: Joan Longley Demeritte; Children: Weymond Kelsey, Waymond, Danae, Amia, Xavier, Dontae & Sanaa Demeritte; Brothers: Joseph Kelsey (Patricia) Demeritte & Kelvin (Karen) Demeritte; Nieces: Kelvana & Kelcarah Demeritte; Nephew: Robert Newbold, PC 4358 Renaldo Hudson; Uncles: Cleophas Lenoard Longley & Family, Stanley & Wendall Dames, & Sheila Demeritte & Family; Aunts: Geraldine (Randolph) & Family, Stephanie (Wenzel) King & Family; Cousins: George (Tonya) Minnis & Family, Michael (Joann) Demeritte & Family, Rev Ednal & Yvette Minnis & Family, Beatrice Rand, Monique Forbes & Family Eureka Glinton, Paul (Anita) Glinton & Family, Katie Longley, Audrey Dorsette & Family, D’Antoine (Marsha) Morley & Family, Bernard (Carla) Minnis & Family, Jacqueline & (Stephen) Russell, Marjorie Adderley & Family, Mordine (Prince) Smith & Family, Johnathan (Hilda) Forbes & Family, Zendal, Whitley, Vesrta, Helen Forbes & Family, Mrs. Gladys Longley & Family, Tyrone (Grace) Forbes & Family, Clara Morgan & Family, The Children of Chris & Elmore Longley Family, Basil (Carolyn) Longley & Family, Anthony (Elizabeth) Longley & Family, Justin (Shirley) Roberts & Family, Henry (Judy) Whyms and Family, Raphal (Rena) Whyms & Family, The Children of the late Uncle Burke Longley & Family, Susan Longley & Family, Mr. & Mrs. Davy Rolle & Family, Roland (Alice) & Family, Amanda Smith & Family, Shirley & Pat Longley & Family, Ingrid Miller and Family, Renae Symonette & Family, Derek Burrows, Herman (Pia) Rolle & Family, Majorie Stuart & Family, Lorraine Clarke & Family, Children of the late Glorene Seymour & Family, Children of the late Ruth Pinder & Family & Family Hon. Bacchus & Mrs. Rolle & Family, Mrs. Lola Rolle, Theus Fountain & Family, Chris & Janet Mackey & Family, Thelma Johnson & Family, Joseph Demeritte & Family, Retired Chief Superintendent (Stephanie) Demeritte, Carles Demeritte-Williams & Family, Delores Gould & Family, Children the of late Cathleen Gould, Sarah Gould-Earns & Family, Presley Gould &; Family, Michelle & Simone Sturrup & Family, Isadora Moncur & Family, Charles Rolle & Family. Other relatives and Friends, Maxine Wright & Family, Hon. Wayne Munroe, Min. of National Security, Ms.Cheryl Darville, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of National Security, Commissioner of Police Paul Rolle & Mrs. Rolle, Sr. Deputy Commissioner of Police Clayton Fernander & Mrs. Fernander, Rev. Stephen Davies RBPF Chaplin, United States of America Embassy (Bahamas) & Staff, Assistant Commissioner of Police Craig Stubbs & Mrs. Stubbs, President & Law Enforcement Union, Chief Supt. Roberto Goodman and Staff of DEU, South Central Police Division, Class of 1988, Bishop Ross and Pastor Althea Davis & Members of Golden Gates World Outreach, Apostle Paul & Maxine Butler & Members of Bahamas Christian Fellowship, Dr. Mattie Nottage & Apostle Edison Nottage, members of Believers Ministries, Pastor Allan & Minister Ruby Strachan & Members of The Fellowship, & other Churches, Bishop Carrington & Pastor Sabrina Pinder & Family, Rev. Reginald & Mrs. Ferguson & Family, Mr. & Mrs. Garzaroli, Staff of Graycliff Restaurant & Sky Lounge, Mr. Johnson & Hon. Denise Lewis-Johnson & Family, Mr. & Mrs. Darnell Osborne & Family, President and Staff of Charm Ones Export Inc., President & Staff DigiPrint, H.O. Nash class of 1984, CC Sweeting class of 1987. Other Friends: Catherine Demeritte & Family, Dr. & Mrs. Culmer, Frances, Ramon Lightbourn & Family, Genelle Pinder & Family, Mr. & Mrs. Tyrone McKenzie & Family, Charlene Williams & Family, Katherine Ross & Family, Yasmin Skinner & Family, Paul Neely & Staff, Boalic Company, Susan Clarke & Family, Razell Headley & Family, Donna Knowles & Family, Patricia Clarke & Family, Mr. & Mrs. Betram, Morley & Family, Mr. & Mrs. Shevonn Cambridge & Family, Lee & Family. Communities: Black Village including Senator Rodney Moncur, Mangrove Cay Andros, Farrington Road, Golden Gates II & side streets, Stubbs, Moxey, Glinton, Confliffe, Russells, Marshalls, Bodies, Rutherford, Kellys, Rileys Archers, Johnson, Taylors, Whyms, Bannisters, Bastians, Bains, Jones, Bethels Lundys, McPhee, Forbes, Griffiths, Wongs, Williams, Stuarts, Wrights. We humbly apologize for any omission of names.

MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE! Relatives and friends may pay their last respects at the Paul Farquharson Convention Center from 9:00am-6:00pm on Tuesday, June 28th, 2022.

Due to current Government regulations in respect of Covid-19, masks and social distancing are required and will be strictly enforced.

THE National Independence Secretariat is set to kick off the 49th Independence celebrations on Friday under the theme: “Proud to Be Bahamian”.

In an effort to promote pride and unity throughout the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, the Secretariat is encouraging a National Flag Raising Ceremony be held at all Government,

and private corporate offices.

This ceremony should be staged at 9am on Friday, simultaneously.

Bahamians are urged to wear the national colours of aquamarine, gold and black and assemble together as the National Flag is being hoisted and to sing the National Anthem, followed by a prayer.

The Secretariat is also encouraging participants to capture the event in photos and or videos, for posting on social media platforms, and inclusion in the national jubilee booklet and documentary next year.

Send images to: info@ celebrate-bahamas.com.

A calendar of events is also planned from July 1.

INDEPENDENCE EVENTS

Friday, July 1 National Pride Day Bahamians and Residents throughout The Bahamas are encouraged to wear the National Colors of Black, Gold and Aquamarine. Special flag raising ceremonies are to be encouraged at all government offices and corporate entities.

Saturday, July 2 National Day of Service Be of service to a fellow Bahamian and/or within a Bahamian community. Share photos or videos using hashtag #242dayofservice #celebratebahamas #proudtobebahamian Sunday, July 3, 5pm-6.30pm Annual Beat Retreat The Annual Pre-Independence Beat Retreat will take place on Bay Street (Parliament/Rawson squares). In addition to the Royal Bahamas Police and Defence Force marching bands, The Bahamas All Stars and Urban Renewal Marching Bands will entertain.

Tuesday, July 5, 7pm Distinguished Lecture Series Bahamians and residents will be invited to attend a monthly lecture Series at the Harry C Moore Library, University of The Bahamas.

Wednesday, July 6 National Day of Wellness Exercise or Meditate for 49 minutes. Share photos or videos using #242Wellness #celebratebahamas #proudtobebahamian Thursday, July 7-11, 7pm Babe Ruth Caribbean International Championships Opening Thomas A Robinson National Stadium - Official Opening #repyourcolors #celebratebahamas #proudtobebahamian

display by all uniform branches. The GovernorGeneral CA Smith and his wife, Prime Minister and Philip “Brave” Davis and Ann Marie Davis will attend.

Sunday, July 10 Official Announcement of Recipients of National Honours Governor General CA Smith will announce recipients of the 2022 National Honours.

Sunday, July 10, 7pm Independence Gospel Explosion The National Secretariat will host a Grand Gospel Concert at Clifford Park featuring the best of Gospel Songs and Praises.

Monday, July 11, midnight to 6am People’s Junkanoo Love & Unity Rush The Junkanoo Development Association will coordinate the People’s Junkanoo Love & Unity Rush. All Junkanoo Groups will participate, and several Junkanoo Icons will be honoured. Venue: Rawson/Parliament Squares.

Monday, July 11, 6pm State Reception A state reception will be held at Baha Mar Resort, Cable Beach (By Invitation Only).

Thursday, July 14, 7pm-9pm Folk Dance and Drum Show A display of drum rhythm and dance of The Bahamas at Fort Charlotte.

Friday, July 15 Support A Bahamian Artisan Day - Represent your Straw Share images and videos of your straw show, bags, belts #repyourstraw #celebratebahamas #proudtobebahamian

Friday, July 8 Represent your Bahamian Colors Share images and videos wearing your Bahamian Colors #celebratebahamas #proudtobebahamian

Friday, July 15, 7pm-9pm Couture and Culture Show A fashion presentation of popular and upcoming fashion on the Ivy Dumont Building grounds (Ministry of Education).

Saturday, July 9, 8pm-midnight Ecumenical Service & Flag Raising Ceremony The annual National Flag Raising ceremony preceded by an Ecumenical Service and March Past

Saturday, July 16, 8am-7pm Bahamas Cook Off Festival A ulinary competition to name the best chef of various dishes at Fort Charlotte.

THE TRIBUNE

Monday, June 27, 2022, PAGE 5

Gibson should weigh his ‘duty and honour’ from page one The minister was asked if his ministry stood ready to facilitate a vote, should there be a resignation from Mr Gibson.

“Well a by-election only arises if somebody resigns,” Mr Munroe said. “That would be in the breast of Mr Gibson.”

He went on to note the resignation of an MP in the United Kingdom in May, telling this newspaper: “That was his sense of honour, his sense of duty. The member for Long Island will have to examine himself to determine what is his sense of honour, what is his sense of duty?

“If he resigns, then of course we would be ready to hold a by-election. The parliamentary registration

department will do what is necessary.”

Mr Gibson and six others were arraigned in a Magistrate’s Court earlier this month Mr Gibson, 37, himself a lawyer, was represented

by Attorney Ellsworth Johnson. He was before Assistant Chief Magistrate Carolyn Vogt-Evans to face 56 charges.

While Mr Gibson faced 31 of his 56 charges alone, he along with the remaining six accused, faced a combined 101 charges.

Three of the other accused stood before the court in connection with this incident and their relations with Mr Gibson. They were Elwood Donaldson Jr, 54, WSC’s former general manager, Gibson’s cousin, Rashae Gibson 28, as well as his campaign general, Joan Knowles, 56.

The remaining three defendants were Jerome Missick, 54, Tonya Demeritte, 43, and Peaches Farquharson, 39.

These charges, which range from false declaration, bribery, fraud, receiving and money laundering allegedly stem from Gibson’s failure to declare his interest in contracts awarded by WSC. Mr Gibson is alleged to have illicitly gained more than $1m from contracts granted to Elite Maintenance and Baha Bay. It is alleged that he gained a financial advantage of a collective $1,279,532.97 after he received a variety of payments in cheques and wire transfers.

Despite the allegations the Free National Movement has said the political organisation supports the MP.

LONG Island MP Adrian Gibson.

medical attention.

“The pilot stated that he arrived at the airport at approximately 8.10am that morning and conducted his routine pre-flight checks of the aircraft. Shortly thereafter, he and the six passengers boarded the aircraft and prepared for their departure. According to the pilot, after conducting his pre-takeoff checks, he taxied to the runway and departed.

“The pilot further stated that during the climb phase and shortly after the aircraft’s gears were retracted, he observed a warning light that indicated low oil pressure.

“Shortly thereafter and at approximately 200 feet, the left engine power started to decline significantly. An attempt was made to return to the airfield. Shortly thereafter, the right engine power also started to decline.

The pilot stated that at

that moment he advised the passengers to brace for impact. The terrain warning aural alarm could be heard in the aircraft.

Both pilot and several passengers interviewed confirmed that an alarm was heard throughout the accident sequence up until the aircraft made contact with the surface.

“The aircraft made contact with several trees before impacting the ground, coming to rest approximately 75 feet after

initial contact with trees.

The scene of the crash was located approximately two nautical miles from the Deadman’s Cay Airport in dense brush.

The pilot and five of the passengers were able to get out of the aircraft after it came to a stop. The female passenger who sat at the rear of the aircraft was ejected and found lying about five feet from the rear door of the fuselage by the other passengers as they exited the aircraft.

CRASH FATALITY WAS THROWN FROM PLANE from page one

may have been airborne for approximately two minutes and may have reached an altitude of between 100 to 200 feet.

Investigators said the right wing of the aircraft appeared to have made first impact with the trees.

Shortly thereafter, the fuselage of the aircraft and the left wing made contact with the ground and surrounding trees. The density and thickness of the trees in the area limited the distance the aircraft travelled after impact with the surface.

The aircraft was later recovered from the scene and sent to the United States where AAIA investigators and investigators from the manufacturer of the aircraft (airframe) and engines will conduct further inspections and analysis to determine the cause of the accident, the report noted.

Regarding the series of events leading up to the crash, AAIA said the pilot arrived at the airport well ahead of his takeoff time and conducted pre-flight checks.

“On June 5, 2022 at approximately 9.05am, a Piper Navajo aircraft with United States registration N711JW crashed moments after takeoff from the Deadman’s Cay Airport (MYLD), Long Island, Bahamas,” the four-page report said.

“The flight departed with its destination, the Lynden Pindling International Airport (MYNN), New Providence, Bahamas.

As a result of the accident, the pilot and five of the passengers received injuries in varying degrees, while a female passenger who occupied the rear seat of the aircraft was ejected from the aircraft during the crash sequence and later succumbed to her injuries.

After being seen by medical personnel in Long Island, the surviving passengers were airlifted to Nassau, Bahamas for further

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“She appeared to be unconscious and the pilot along with another passenger rendered assistance.

Initially it seemed that she drifted in and out of consciousness and later appeared to be in distress.

Life saving measures, inclusive of CPR, were utilised. All attempts were unsuccessful and she subsequently succumbed to injuries sustained as a result of the crash sequence.”

The deceased female passenger was later flown

to Nassau where an autopsy to determine cause of death was performed on June 9, 2022.

Apart from Newbold’s death there were four serious injuries and the extent of one other injury was unknown.

The plane was a Piper Aircraft, model PA 31-310 with registration N711JW and registered to Mohammadi Roy. Jaime Nixon is listed as the investigator in charge of this case.

PAGE 6, Monday, June 27, 2022

The Tribune Limited

THE TRIBUNE

PICTURE OF THE DAY

NULLIUS ADDICTUS JURARE IN VERBA MAGISTRI “Being Bound to Swear to The Dogmas of No Master”

Publisher/Editor 1903-1914

LEON E. H. DUPUCH,

Kt., O.B.E., K.M., K.C.S.G., (Hon.) LL.D., D.Litt .

SIR ETIENNE DUPUCH,

Publisher/Editor 1919-1972 Contributing Editor 1972-1991

EILEEN DUPUCH CARRON,

C.M.G., M.S., B.A., LL.B. Publisher/Editor 1972-

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Tax for bread but not for yachts?

THIS one is going to be a little hard to justify for the administration.

Outside the normal Budget process, a tax break is being introduced for the rich. The ten percent duty rate on “pleasure vessels” is being eliminated.

The move comes in a memo sent to the Customs comptroller by the financial secretary, Simon Wilson. The FNM obtained that memo and has released it.

Now, we’ll come to the process by which this tax break has been introduced in a moment – but let’s consider for a moment how there was a lot of talk when the government added VAT back on to breadbasket items.

Economic Affairs Minister Michael Halkitis talked about how it was “not feasible” to remove VAT on breadbasket items – a declaration that we said in this column was nonsense. Of course it was feasible – it hadn’t been applied previously, it was a choice to put it back on.

Minister of Education Glenys Hanna Martin said how she struggled with the decision to add VAT back onto breadbasket items. Her honesty was admirable. She said: “Personally I am hoping that we will see VAT come off food in general but I think the rationale was – and this is something that I myself struggled with – but the rationale was what the government did was reduce VAT to ten percent. So, it took the global pressure off the Bahamian people.”

She went on to say that any hardship that was experienced would be offset by the work of the Department of Social Services and other agencies.

But how can one justify adding VAT on a loaf of bread, but scrapping the tax on a yacht?

When every penny counts, so we’re told, and when the financial equations of the government are so delicately balanced that international agencies are doubtful whether targets can be hit, what bright spark decided that now is the time to take off that oh so onerous tax on pleasure vessels?

And now for the process – if the government was going to do it, why not include it in the regular Budget process?

Supposedly it was left out by mistake – does that sound likely to you? What kind of mistake leaves out an entire section of tax being eliminated? Does that

make the sums fail to add up? What other mistakes have there been?

Kwasi Thompson, the former Minister of State for Finance under the Minnis administration, had his own question. He said: “Our question would be: On what legal basis are you changing the tariff without Parliament’s approval because when it comes to changing tariffs that is changing legislation, which means that you have to get Parliament’s approval to do so.”

He added: “Nobody knew the government was taking this policy decision. It has to come to the people and explain what it’s doing and why. What is the justification for making pleasure yachts duty free?”

Yachts are expensive, priced in the multiple millions, so a ten percent tax would bring in a sizeable income for the government. Who lobbied them to remove it? Is anyone in government planning to buy themselves a pleasure vessel any time soon and due to get a nice saving because of this?

So next time you tut at the price of the loaf of bread, and how it is ten percent higher thanks to the VAT on it, remember – at least the super-rich are saving money on their yachts.

Where next?

We suggest that you read the Insight article by Malcolm Strachan on page nine today. As we approach the 49th Independence celebration, he details some of the things holding our nation back – and more importantly asks where are we going next.

The problems are all too easy to list – you could do so yourself. Power outages, broken-up roads, a political environment that takes forever to move on issues such as marijuana legislation or marital rape laws. Then there’s things such as government transparency or the lack thereof.

It’s not just a list of complaints, however – it’s a question. What is our ambition?

We would love to hear from readers where they think we should be going next, as we count down to our 49th anniversary.

SEAN “Diddy” Combs performs during a tribute in his honour at the BET Awards last night at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles.

Photo: Chris Pizzello/AP

In response to Andrew Allen EDITOR, The Tribune.

LETTERS

I FEEL compelled to address some of the points raised by Mr Andrew Allen in a letter to you last week and published on June 20th.

Mr Allen used the Bahamas Sea Turtle protection and Conservation law as an example of a foreignerknows-best attitude that he alleges is prevalent in The Bahamas, which is simply not accurate as all the people involved in the lobby were Bahamian and with Bahamian organisations.

He unleashed a vitriolic attack on the protection laws of The Bahamas.

The Bahamas is rapidly becoming a very savvy little nation with a deep and sincere interest in the environment and conservation. Mr Ingraham had the foresight to pass the bill protecting the endangered sea turtles, and our present Prime Minister, thank goodness, is very mindful of the importance of protecting species that could well disappear off the face of the earth.

All sea turtles are at risk of extinction, some more than others, many of them swim in our waters.

letters@tribunemedia.net Since the turtle ban there has been a proliferation of sightings. Keep in mind that turtles do not reach sexual maturity until they are at least 15 years old, some need to be older, their protection is key to their reproduction.

It is absurd to say that a “foreign oriented” group were trying to enforce their own culinary norms - what nonsense when turtle consommé was a delicacy of the rich and food connoisseurs of the world. It is not a question of enforcing one’s culinary norms, it is a question of preserving the richness or our sea for generations to come.

Furthermore, it is simply nonsense that the supporters of the turtle protection and conservation act were trying to kill an aspect of Bahamian culture. There is absolutely no truth in that. Protecting turtles is a global movement and we in The Bahamas are a cog in that movement. Turtles travel the world and return to their beaches to lay their eggs. The thousands

a terrible sin, you are going to be damned, etc, etc. I did not, and in fact accompanied a young woman to and during the procedure.

Why did I assist these ladies? Well what was the truly greatest of laws given us by Christianity and many other sacred religions? We can make our own decisions. We have the right and ability to choose. Well here go the men again, playing God. They want to tell 50% of this planet what the hell to do. Long ago I have met men who murder owners of abortion clinics, nurses and doctors that work there too. Real Godfearing men who were members of The Army of God, a known domestic terrorist group that has declared a holy war upon the abortion genocide(as they called it). Abortion is a destroyer of life in so many ways. I hate its conception and practice, but I acknowledge its purpose to liberate Women from a future of pain and distress.

Socio-economic aside, no one makes a decision like this easily. I don’t see the religious right and its many membership offer much more than words and prayers to those who truly

need this procedure and assistance.

ALLAHU AKBAR - GOD is Great God is Greatest, That is true.

The sacred books of most religions tell us that The Righteous, is a person of Wisdom, who decides well.

Well folks while America is going backwards towards the time when women were to be present, but not heard. A time when men ruled the roost, even if that meant that of their wives, daughters, sisters and mothers would be under their command. It’s The Hand Maiden(book to movie) in the flesh.

Ladies, is this not the time and anywhere being the place, to stand up for your rights as a human being?

Most men care about family, community and nationhood, but they have a collectively tarnished outlook on life. Many will impregnate someone, and some will stand by their choice and action by being responsible, yet many will not. I lived in the Bronx for a year, and cannot remember how many single Women with children lived down the block from the guy who will not acknowledge his children. The

of babies born have a very rough time of it and only a handful survive.

Eco-tourism is the tourism of today and the future, we have so much to offer our visitors, and this will only remain the case if we continue to protect what nature has given us. There are many turtle-sighting dives available around The Bahamas and the visitor loves it.

You can kill a turtle once, you can sell his meat once, but let him live and you can photograph him over and over again and make money out of it. I think it is exciting that new businesses are being created to showcase the very intelligent conservation conscience of both the PLP and the FNM. Conservation has no political boundaries; it is a matter of responsible custodianship of nature and preservation.

It is a pity that there is always somebody trying to stir the pot and cause doubt and trouble.

KIM ARANHA Chairman Bahamas Sea Turtle Conservation Group, President of the Bahamas Humane Society.

Nassau, June 26, 2022.

Abortion: Liberator or...?

EDITOR, The Tribune.

I HATE this subject with a passion. Nothing can drive apart a relationship, group of people or stop a conversation like abortion.

Abortion: A medical procedure that saves the life of one and ends the life of another. Simple.

It crosses all boundaries and introduces an erroneous perception of belief for many of our neighbours.

What is the lie you may ask? Well it is all in the terminology used by the medical profession, politicians and those who support this human right.

Human right? Well if we can accept one lie, “that we all as free people are equal in many ways”, then we should have the right to our safety and healthy bodies.

Women have the right and ownership of their bodies.

Good, well that’s done.

Now the central lie. That the life within the womb is called a “fetus”, and not

a child since it’s still in the woman’s body. A life, but somehow denied protection by the law to remain alive in time. Its life force is superseded by the life of the woman carrying it.

Who made that decision? Well the US Supreme Court did, passing into law Roe & Wade, a decision that allowed for abortions in America, and ultimately throughout the world too.

Hey, if the biggest democracy in the world can decide this, so could others. Follow the quacking duck. This past Friday, a conservative-led Supreme Court has overturned this ruling, opening up a huge bag of firecrackers ready to be lighted into an explosion of who the hell knows for sure. Can’t be good. Not for the victims of rape, incest and those whose lives are threatened by, yes the fetus and its condition. Horrors upon horrors, we will now have each State within their Union able to decide how,

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when and where the State can control their female population. It’s all about control.

The Conservative Right, with their religious allies will claim the right to control Women and their bodies, mostly for religious reasons (what would Jesus do?), but it is a guy thing.

That’s right folks. A further lie raises its ugly head, that being “Women are equal to Men”. Well in several States within the US Union that is not true. They want you to believe that Women are equal to Men in Texas, Georgia, Florida, Alabama and so many other States, but we all know that is not true, otherwise women would be allowed to respectfully, intelligently and morally decide what to do with their bodies.

I am a spiritual and religious person, and I abhor abortion, capital punishment, paying excessive taxes and the like. As a former Franciscan Friar TOR, I met several women who truly needed an abortion. Yah, we talked and debated until we could do it no more. I could have said horrible things right out of the Religious Playbook most Catholics have read. You are committing

number of single women with children has grown from 9% in 1994 to 16% in 2014. That stat has gone up since then. Ladies, the society you live in will care for you, support and protect you only if you force it to. Take it by the horns and lead.

Ladies, how can you allow a bunch of elderly lawyers (the Supreme’s) overturn Roe & Wade without a seriously revolutionary fight?

In many States that you live in, politicians are going to start pressuring for other severe changes to the law, and how society views citizens’ rights and privileges.

Friends in the LBGTQ Community, look out! You are next in line. How about overturning same sex marriages? Maybe there will be a return to some horrid southern traditions. Who knows?

Fight for what is right, including the Right to Life.

Stop lying about your intentions. If God were like us, would each of you be dictated to? Or would you be allowed to CHOOSE, even if it is a bitter thing.

STEVEN KASZAB Bradford, Ontario June 24, 2022.

THE TRIBUNE

Monday, June 27, 2022, PAGE 7

HMBS Flamingo captain honoured at ceremony

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe honoured distinguished Defence Force and HMBS Flamingo survivor Captain Witfield Neely at an awards ceremony Sunday.

Minister Munroe with RBDF Commodore Raymond King and other guests attended the Yellow Elder Community Associations post Father’s Day luncheon that paid special tribute to Captain Neely.

At a ceremony held outside the Yellow Elder Senior Centre several speakers, including the Captain’s daughter, Ciji Neely, highlighted the illustrious 42-year Defence Force career of Captain Neely.

During Commodore King’s remarks, he called Captain Neely his mentor and commended him for his steadfast rescue efforts during the sinking of HMBS Flamingo on May 10, 1980.

“Captain Neely was one who maneuvered the safe boat or the sea boat and actually saved basically all of his crew members on

MINISTER of National Security Wayne Munroe, pictured last week.

Photo: Moise Amisial that fateful day,” Commo- security services. after Hurricane Dorian, dore King said.

“But Captain Neely and also extolled his friend’s “And so Neely has been a those would have made it tireless service to the pioneer in the Royal Baha- easy for me today. Their nation. mas Defence Force. It’s labour, their hard work and “And so it’s indeed an because of his and others their guidance and for that honour impromptu to conlike himself who were a part I’m truly grateful.” gratulate him, I’ve had a of the organisation from its The Defence Force Com- good run with him. He’s initial formation and upon modore in addition to still supportive and he whose backs that I enjoy mentioning how Neely, at reminded me today that today and I continue to his request, selflessly came whenever I need him I can build our legacy and our out of retirement to re- simply call on him and he contributions to this coun- establish law and order in will be there to assist me as try in terms of defense and Abaco and Grand Bahama needed. So, I’d like for you

MAN ARRESTED AFTER $10K MARIJUANA DISCOVERY

A MAN was arrested in Grand Bahama after he was discovered with about $10,000 worth of marijuana.

On Friday, police said that shortly after 5pm, a team of officers from the Drug Enforcement Unit, acting on information, went to the intersection of Express Way and West Mall Drive.

While in the area, reports are that officers intercepted a champagne coloured Chevrolet Malibu vehicle driven by a man who officers informed of their suspicion.

A search of the man and vehicle followed and while searching the vehicle’s trunk, a red and black Jordan bag was found.

The officers examined the bag and discovered two clear plastic wrapped packages containing a quantity of what was suspected to be marijuana.

As a result, an adult male of South Bahamia was arrested and taken into police custody. The suspected marijuana weighed 10lbs with an estimated street value of $10,000.

Investigations are continuing, police said.

to join me in applauding Captain Neely on this occasion, my mentor, and I’m pleased to have been one of his protégés.”

Speaking at the event and in addition to congratulating Captain Neely for his years of long service, Minister Munroe also expressed his desire for there to be more public recognition for servicemen who died during the sinking of HMBS Flamingo.

The Minister of National Security said that without a proper memorial to this watershed moment in our history the memory of that tragedy could be lost to time.

“If you don’t set up something for people to see and ask you about them we stand the chance of losing it and that would be very, very wrong and very regrettable. And so we now know that the Bahamas government intends to honour the entire crew which is appropriate because you sail as a crew, you fight as a crew, you live as a crew and you mourn death as a crew.

Canon Sebastian Campbell has challenged that we set another memorial that we set May as HMBS Flamingo month,” Mr Munroe said.

“I’ll do my part to make it (a new memorial) so and I’m smart enough to know when you talk about things people get to talk about it and then things may happen. So, have my congratulations Captain Neely on this fitting honour. Your tribe is celebrating you and just as there were 12 tribes, this is your tribe celebrating you.”

After hearing these tributes, Captain Neely said that he was thankful to all the people who made this event happen and was deeply honoured by the accolades for his years of dedicated service.

He said: “All of my friends are here and this has been truly a wonderful experience for me. You know they always said something about give them their flowers while they’re alive and that would be the best thing you could do for someone. This would be an occasion that I will remember for the rest of my life.

“Sir Winston Churchill would have said: ‘This will go down in infamy, this will live forever.’ This has truly been a surprise for me. On behalf of my wife, Raenelle, and I thank you very much for coming out here.”

MONDAY, JUNE 27, 2022

THE STORIES BEHIND THE NEWS

Thicker than water FEAR is unpredictable.

It can turn the brave into heroes or lay bare previously camouflaged cowardly traits for the world to see.

But in our darkest hour and for a small few, the fear of the unknown can manifest courage so great it nearly defies explanation. Those are the stories that make headlines. It can also allow those willing to face the storm directly to channel their adversities with grace.

Two months ago, during a sickle cell crisis, my patient and friend hereafter

“

referred to as Natalie, was transported to the hospital in severe pain. She described it as an intense stabbing everywhere along her body but especially in her chest, stomach, back, arms, legs and feet. The pain was crippling and sometimes lasted for hours to weeks at a time. Each occurrence left her body drained and so weakened that she could barely walk.

Some cycles were infinitely more debilitating than others. This crisis was particularly ruthless and one of

By DR KENNETH D KEMP

the most intense she’d ever experienced.

On the way to the hospital, the fear in her eyes was evident but even more palpable was the sense of fatigue. Natalie, from the age of two, suffered from

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Sickle Cell Anemia and for over 46 years had gone into crisis more than a hundred times. She was physically and mentally exhausted.

The heavy toll this disease had inflicted on her now frail body was blatantly obvious and even the most obtuse onlooker could appreciate her profound suffering.

Sickle cell anemia is an inherited blood disorder where the haemoglobin protein within red blood cells has mutated from round to a more crescent moon shape. Given this structural abnormality, the red blood cells are no longer able to transport oxygen throughout the body efficiently. They become stiff and sticky.

This impedes blood flow resulting in pain, shortness of breath and other serious health complications like chronic bacterial infections and stroke. Currently there is no cure available and patients with this condition with early detection and treatment typically have a life expectancy into their 50s and in very rare cases, into their early 60s.

Unfortunately, medications available locally to help reduce symptoms amount to almost $700 per month. Natalie often voiced concern over the fact this is far too cost prohibitive for the average Bahamian afflicted with this disease since very few insurance policies will cover patients with sickle cell.

Given her own personal experience, Natalie became a physician and a champion for the local sickle cell community. Her practice focused on pain management and wellness in an effort to limit her own pain and to help treat others throughout The Bahamian archipelago. But as her disease progressed, there was very little that she could do to blunt her pain cycles.

While seeking treatment at the hospital for her flareups, she became friendly with the doctors and nurses on staff. As such, she was immediately transported to the trauma unit upon arrival and quickly assessed. Routine testing quickly revealed the extensive damage inflicted over the years to her lungs, kidney and liver.

So much so that her organs had slowly begun to fail.

In all of our interactions, Natalie remained hopeful that she could prolong her life as much as possible through a healthy diet

and the use of high stand- Sickle Cell Anemia as a ard supplements that she child. Now that she’s in her personally researched and 50s, she credits her mother endorsed. Her advice has with helping her to come prolonged the life of many to terms with her disease of her patients and saved and to rise above the limitacountless others. Despite tions that it often imposes. this, she remained humble No single medication works and always found some- well for everyone but over thing to laugh about even the years, the superstar has while recovering from found what works best for the worst of her in reducing her episodes. the frequency That in and of Natalie often and severity of itself required voiced concern her symptoms. a remarkable over the fact She continues to inner strength, tour with a massomething that this is far too sage therapist Natalie had in cost prohibitive and regularly spades. takes Cannafor the average bidiol (derived On the evening she was Bahamian from the Canadmitted to the afflicted with nabis/Marijuana hospital, Natalie this disease plant) to respecwaved goodbye tively reduce to her family since very her symptoms as the medical few insurance and boost her team prepared immune system. policies will her for transport As the current from the trauma cover patients government unit in accident with sickle cell. makes strides and emergency towards legalto her room. ising medical They left confident that marijuana in The Bahashe’d return home like she mas, many patients in the had so many times before. sickle cell community, with Tragically, this would not be and without insurance, the same as before. Within a rejoice that an affordable few hours, Natalie’s organs treatment option may soon failed and despite doctors’ become available. and nurses’ best efforts, There comes a point they could not save her. As when the acceptance of Natalie was pronounced one’s circumstance overdead, the white sheet used rides fear and, with no only moments prior to pro- further hindrance, an overvide warmth was used to whelming sense of peace cover her face. Every medi- fills the space where fear cal personnel in the room once ruled. I choose to at that time felt the loss believe that in her final deeply. They were there moments, and after years of for every crises and gave a valiantly fighting an unconhigh-five, cheered loudly querable disease, Natalie and applauded whenever was granted this divine she recovered. But today peace. there would be no transient May we all take a outbursts of support. Today, moment to appreciate the the room was quiet. lives of countless unreNo one felt this loss more warded warriors lost to deeply than her parents. sickle cell anemia. And as They were incredibly close we mourn the lives that to their daughter and spoke could have been, may we to her almost every day also celebrate the beautiful from the day she was born time they were here, the joy to the final time when she they spread and the infinite was admitted to the hos- contributions they collecpital. Both carriers of the tively made to the world sickle cell trait, there was an that we each inhabit. underlying guilt that they both felt from unknowingly • Nick-named ‘The passing this disease to their Prince of Podiatry’, Dr. daughter. While they felt Kenneth D. Kemp is the guilty, Natalie, had always founder and medical direcfelt overwhelmed with tor of Bahamas Foot and gratitude to be blessed with Ankle located in Caves two incredibly loving parVillage, Western New ents, a sister she adored and Providence. He served as a grandmother whom she the deputy chairman for absolutely cherished. the Health Council for five Well-known Grammyyears and he currently sits award winning singer on the board of directors Tionne Watkins from the for the Princess Margaret popular 90s RnB group Hospital Foundation in his TLC, was diagnosed with role as co-vice-chairman.

EMAIL: insight@tribunemedia.net

By MALCOLM STRACHAN THE countdown clock has begun to the celebrations for Bahamian Independence – but as we reach that 49th anniversary, how is our nation faring?

On the face of it, we would seem to still be facing a host of problems – some of which have dogged our nation for generations.

As we mark the occasion when we took power for ourselves, for example, it seems we still cannot generate power – with BPL continuing to have to explain a series of widespread outages. Worse, as we sit in the dark waiting for the power to come back on, we do so in the knowledge we may soon have to pay more for the electricity we’re not getting! The rise in fuel costs is going to reach our pockets sooner or later, no matter how much government officials dance around the issue.

Then this week a new failure in basic supplies – water. Apparently a simple lightning strike, plus a power surge, was enough to disrupt water production at the Water & Sewerage Corporation’s Blue Hills plant.

Customers in central, south and east New Providence saw a drop in water pressure as a result.

Drive the roads and you won’t need to be told how many potholes there are – so, power problems, water problems, road problems – our infrastructure seems to be creaking at the seams, same as it has for many years.

But what about our politics? Well, successive governments have been failing to go anywhere fast with reform of marijuana laws – the latest effort, we hear, despite the proposals moving at the speed of an iceberg, haven’t found time to properly consult the Rastafarian community.

Then there’s the efforts to tackle issues such as marital rape, which have spent so long tiptoeing around the Christian Council I’ll be amazed if it ever amounts to anything. The Christian Council now apparently is open to protection against rape for spouses in the period between legal separation and divorce. But not, it would seem, for the period before separation

INSIGHT

MONDAY, JUNE 27, 2022 PAGE 9

AMBITIONS UNFULFILLED AND NO SIGN THINGS WILL GET BETTER ANY TIME SOON

– so if the husband rapes Cabinet speak about his push his wife repeatedly to the to see it happen personally as point that she finally flees an individual. It’s a conversathe home, it’s only after she tion we haven’t heard a lot steps outside that door that about in recent years until she deserves protection, we heard what happened in according to the council.

Barbados. But it’s obviously If all that seems as if we in the hands of the Bahamian are paralysed in the struc- people to decide. ture of our nation and “It’s not on our agenda paralysed in moving for- right now. However, the ward with legislation that Bahamian people can brings us into the same cen- change that if they detertury as others around us, mine this is what they perhaps it’s because that’s want to do. It would have the case. to be something the BahaWhat about our inde- mian people request and pendence itself?

Well, put on the government’s we’ve only recently had a agenda.” visit from members of the If the press secretary can Royal Family, in which we so roundly dismiss the PLP spruced up the roads our chairman’s comments, how visitors would be driving on far do you think requests and put on fancy threads in from the rest of the Bahawhich to bow. mian people will go?

The visit prompted the Look around Bahamian most minor of discussions society and you’ll see plenty about whether of people toutThe Bahamas ‘Will we be ing the honours was ready to they’ve received go all the way any richer? Any from the Queen and become a wiser? Will we – from knightrepublic. hoods to MBEs, be any more The trouble while honours is, too many independent? bestowed by people seem to Will our laws Bahamians like it the way it and finances come a distant is. Government second. There can always kick be more seems little the thorniest of transparent? desire for a problems up to Will our people change to that. the Privy CounSo with 49 cil then shrug have greater years of age and say its power to get fast approachhands are tied. answers from ing, where are Even Forwe? We’re not eign Affairs government? moving forMinister Fred What, at this ward in terms Mitchell seems of greater indestage in our resigned to the pendence, and status quo these country’s we’re facing days. Back in development, the same old December, problems over as Barbados is our lofty and over again. removed the goal? What is How will we be Queen as head our ambition?’ any different in of state, he said a year’s time, he was still comwhen we hit 50? mitted to a republic, but Will we be any richer? seemed to admit defeat. Any wiser? Will we be any He said: “It is my life’s more independent? Will work toward deepening our laws and finances be our democracy, but try as more transparent? Will I might over my lifetime I our people have greater have been unable to fire up power to get answers from the succeeding generations government? on this issue. Perhaps they What, at this stage in our have more important things country’s development, is to do.” our lofty goal? What is our He couldn’t even ambition? convince his own adminisAs we lift up our heads tration’s press secretary, it on Independence Day this seems – with Clint Watson year, maybe that is what we saying soon after that should be asking ourselves becoming a republic was – where do we go next? not on the agenda of this After all, the motto on government. our coat of arms says “ForNoting Mr Mitchell’s com- ward Upward Onward ments, he said: “You’ve Together”. How are we heard a member of the living up to that goal?

THEN Governor General Dame Marguerite Pindling at Clifford Park at The Bahamas’ 45th Grand Independence Celebrations.

PAGE 10 MONDAY, JUNE 27, 2022

INSIGHT

EMAIL: insight@tribunemedia.net

Time is overdue for correcting a foolish wrong JUAN GUAIDO, above, and Nicolas Maduro, below.

IT IS time that several nations, led in the Western Hemisphere by the US and Canada, correct a foolish wrong. Among those countries are two member states of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), namely Haiti and Jamaica.

That wrong was not only their anointment of Juan Guaidó as the “Interim President” of Venezuela on January 23, 2019, but also the subsequent imposition of this fallacy on organisations, such as the Organization of American States (OAS) and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). The wrong was foolish because it was conceived and imposed to suit narrow national political objectives; it was not grounded in international law or practice, nor was there any wide agreement on it. Therefore, it was never sustainable.

Seven of the 13 countries in the Western Hemisphere, which originally joined the US and Canada in aggressively supporting that notion that Guaidó was in charge of Venezuela, have now abandoned that position and reverted to dealing with the de facto Venezuelan government of President Nicolás Maduro. The seven countries that have ditched support for Guaidó are: Argentina, Peru, Mexico, Chile, and Honduras in Latin America as well as The Bahamas and St Lucia in the Caribbean.

Significantly, an eighth and very important country is seeking to normalise relations with the Maduro government. This country is Venezuela’s neighbour, Colombia, whose newly elected President, Gustavo Petro, revealed on his Twitter account that he has “reached out to the Venezuelan government to open the borders and restore the full exercise of human rights on the border”. The conversation was confirmed by Maduro.

Petro will assume office on August 7.

Many adverse consequences arose from the wrong that was perpetrated in January 2019.

Among them were violations of the rules of the OAS to compel accreditation of Guaidó’s nominee as Venezuela’s Ambassador on April 22, 2019.

There was a similar dubious procedure, one month before, on March 15, to appoint Guaidó’s representative as a governor of the IDB. Those wrongful actions continue to

World View

By SIR RONALD SANDERS

divide the member states of both organisations, and to adversely affect their operations both financially and functionally.

For instance, since Guaidó has no control over the finances of Venezuela, including its Treasury, his so-called interim government has not paid one cent in contributions to the OAS or the IDB, nor has it serviced the outstanding loans to Venezuela.

In the IDB’s case, at the end of 2021, the total amount of Venezuela’s sovereign-guaranteed payment arrears amounted to $1,088m, including interest. Further, since 2018, all loans to Venezuela, amounting to $2,011m, were placed in non-accrual status. Interest income not recognised amounted to $51m during the year ended December 31, 2021, and the related individually assessed allowance for credit losses was $77m.

How any Bank can operate in this way is alarming. It demonstrates a woeful politicisation of a financial institution with little regard for fiduciary responsibilities. Left unchecked, it will cripple the Bank, severely restricting its capacity to cater for the needs of its borrowing members and threatening repayments to its lending members.

The OAS is equally affected financially. As of June 30, 2022, Venezuela owes the organisation $17.4m in unpaid dues.

Every year, $1.9m is added to that sum. The cumulative effect is to deprive the OAS of money it desperately needs to recruit competent staff and to retain the ones it has. Projects are also affected by the lack of finance, forcing the organisation to become increasingly dependent on “special funds” solicited mostly from the US and Canada, giving these two countries even greater influence on the organisation than they already have.

When, on April 22, 2019, the US and Canada, imposed Guaidó’s representative on the OAS, they did so by the slenderest majority of 18 votes, and only with the support of six of the Latin American and Caribbean countries, which

have publicly changed their stance. Today, it is most unlikely that 18 countries would support retaining Guaidó’s nominee as the legitimate representative of Venezuela. But the anachronistic rules of the OAS are such that while only 18 votes were required to impose a representative, a two-thirds majority or 22 votes is needed to reverse the imposition, and thus to correct this wrong.

It may very well be that, given that 15 of the 33 voting member states of the OAS did not support the April 2019 decision, and eight countries have now publicly changed their position, there are 23 countries that could overturn it.

All of this sets the stage for a completely different conversation concerning Venezuela; importantly one that will not include the myth that Guaidó is the interim President of the country. That is not to say that he would not remain a participant in any negotiations among the parties in Venezuela to find a solution to the political impasse in that country, but he would not be doing so on the unrealistic premise that has so far been promoted.

Both the OAS and the IDB, in their functional and financial interest, need to remedy the situation regarding Venezuela. On a wider hemispheric level, credible and practical discussions should be initiated with the government that is in charge of Venezuela in order to reintegrate the country and its resources into the global trading and financial system.

In that way, desired reforms in Venezuela, could be achieved with benefits to its people, and to the role it could play in the peaceful development and prosperity of the hemisphere.

• Responses and previous commentaries: www. sirronaldsanders.com (The writer is Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the United States of America and the Organization of American States. He is also a Senior Fellow at the Institute of Commonwealth Studies, University of London and Massey College in the University of Toronto).

EMAIL: insight@tribunemedia.net

INSIGHT

MONDAY, JUNE 27, 2022 PAGE 11

Thinking out of the box to make surgery affordable for billions

By PETE CULMER, Associate professor in surgical technologies, University of Leeds, JESUDIAN GNANARAJ, Professor of electronics and instrumentation engineering, Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences and NOEL ARUPARAYIL, Clinical research fellow in global surgery, University of Leeds HAVE you or a loved one ever needed surgery? Imagine what your life would be like if you couldn’t have it.

Billions of people around the world lack access to surgery because equipment and general anaesthesia are too expensive or unsuitable in their region.

When we think about technological progress people tend to picture faster, shinier, more hitech upgrades of what we already have. But sometimes developers can have more impact by remodelling technology with cheaper and simpler versions.

Our group at the UK’s University of Leeds is developing surgical technology for low-to-middle income countries and our first project was a simplified surgical tool for performing laparoscopic – or keyhole – surgery in low-resource settings where it was not possible before.

Surgical technology has never been more advanced.

The NHS is adopting robotic surgical systems, which give surgeons new levels of precision and skill to perform complex procedures for prostate, gynaecology and bowel surgery.

But while these advances are impressive, they highlight a stark inequality; an estimated five billion people (more than two-thirds of the global population) cannot afford surgery. And yet, surgery is the primary treatment for one-third of diseases. Of the 313 million procedures undertaken worldwide each year, only six percent are performed in the poorest countries, where more than one-third of the world’s population lives.

WHY SURGERY IS SO HARD TO ACCESS

A shortage of trained surgeons, healthcare costs and cultural barriers (many people turn to traditional healers first) prevent access, but all too often there is not enough appropriate surgical equipment available.

By that we mean technology that fits the resources and services available in the local healthcare setting and does so at a cost affordable to local patients.

The shortage of technology designed for low-resource regions is because biotech firms focus on the major commercial markets in the EU, US and China and are reluctant to undercut more expensive, profitable technologies.

The solution is not as simple as providing lowincome countries with the same surgical technology used in high-income countries.

Well-meaning donations of surgical equipment are often unused because they are too expensive to maintain.

Communities struggle to source items such as air filters, cutting blades and CO2 gas to make equipment work.

Research reveals 40-70 percent of medical devices in low-to-middle income countries are broken, unused or unfit for purpose.

WHAT WE DID

We set out trying to develop new surgical equipment tailored to low and middle income countries, using “frugal innovation” as our guiding principle, meaning we were aiming to do more with less“. We also involved clinical staff throughout the process.

Our project helped surgeons practice vital keyhole surgery in remote areas of

rural India. In laparoscopic surgery, the patient’s abdomen is inflated with CO2 gas and the surgeon operates using long instruments which go through small incisions into the space created.

The technique, pioneered in 1901 in Germany, revolutionised modern surgery, reducing their risk of infections and dramatically lowering the recovery time for patients.

Unfortunately, it requires general anaesthesia and a reliable CO2 supply, both of which are too expensive in low-resource regions.

General anaesthesia must be administered by an anaesthetist. An alternative technique, gasless laparoscopy, uses a mechanical retractor to lift the abdomen and create space. This method doesn’t require CO2 and allows the use of readily available spinal anaesthesia instead.

Spinal anaesthesia can be carried out by the operating surgeon, removing the need for a specialist anaesthetist. It means that patients in poorer countries can be given essential surgical treatments such as appendectomy, gall bladder removal, gynaecological procedures. It also enables patients to return to work quickly, which is important because the longer patients are off work sick, the deeper they fall below the poverty line.

There is huge potential for gasless surgery but uptake has been limited because the retractors are bulky, hard to use and maintain and are expensive.

Our designers teamed with surgeons to create a modern retraction system.

We worked together to understand their needs and develop better retractors through repeated testing. The result is “RAIS” (Retractor for Abdominal Insufflationless Surgery) which is being produced by our commercial partner (Ortho Life Systems). It costs $980, about one-third of the price of the older retractors.

The response from our surgical partners has been encouraging. Dr Biju Islary, surgeon and expert in gasless laparoscopy at Crofts Memorial Christian Hospital, India, said: “I have been involved from the start… this is a very good device to use.”

It is being used in ten medical centres in rural Indian states and we are working to expand this to new areas in India and around the world.

A PROBLEM CLOSE TO HOME

Even higher-income countries struggle with unequal access to surgical care.

Postcode lotteries create disparity in availability of healthcare, in places such as the US or UK. The UK’s Green Surgery Challenge has recently highlighted how frugal approaches could save the NHS money. For example, reusable instruments and surgical kit together with washable gowns and drapes, rather than singleuse disposable items, are more environmentally friendly and cost effective.

Our aim is to form an international collaboration. We held the first International Congress for Innovation in Global Surgery in April 2022. There is a lot of scope for improvement in access to gasless surgery and we will work together to improve the other technology involved, including camera systems and monitoring devices.

Technology innovation has an important role to play in surgery. People get excited about the release of a new video game or smartphone – but what could be more incredible than saving a life?

Few products have as great an impact on people’s lives as accessible medical equipment. It is time for technology developers to think outside the box and create surgical products for low and medium-income countries – a market of billions.

• Originally published on theconversation.com

GASLESS laparoscopic surgery performed by Dr Biju Islary using the RAIS system.

PROTESTS AFTER COURT RULING ON ABORTION

PAGE 12, Monday, June 27, 2022

THE TRIBUNE

ABORTION rights advocates gather outside the Tarrant County Courthouse during the Bans Off Our Bodies protest in Fort Worth, Texas, on Saturday.

CHARLESTON, West Virginia Associated Press A TEXAS group that helps women pay for abortions halted its efforts on Saturday while evaluating its legal risk under a strict state ban. Mississippi’s only abortion clinic continued to see patients while awaiting a ten-day notice that will trigger a ban. Elected officials across the country vowed to take action to protect women’s access to reproductive health care, and abortion foes promised to take the fight to new arenas.

A day after the Supreme Court’s bombshell ruling overturning Roe v Wade ended the constitutional right to abortion, emotional protests and prayer vigils turned to resolve as several states enacted bans and both supporters and opponents of abortion rights mapped out their next moves.

In Texas, Cathy Torres, organising manager for Frontera Fund, a group that helps pay for abortions, said there is a lot of fear and confusion in the Rio Grande Valley near the USMexico border, where many people are in the country without legal permission.

That includes how the state’s abortion law, which bans the procedure from conception, will be enforced. Under the law, people who help patients get abortions can be fined and doctors who perform them could face life in prison.

“We are a fund led by

people of colour, who will be criminalised first,” Torres said, adding that abortion funds like hers that have paused operations hope to find a way to safely restart. “We just really need to keep that in mind and understand the risk.”

Tyler Harden, Mississippi director for Planned Parenthood Southeast, said she spent Friday and Saturday making sure people with impending appointments at the state’s only abortion clinic — which featured in the Supreme Court case but is not affiliated with Planned Parenthood — know they don’t have to cancel them right away.

Abortions can still take place until 10 days after the state attorney general publishes a required administrative notice.

Mississippi will ban the procedure except for pregnancies that endanger the woman’s life or those caused by rape reported to law enforcement. The Republican speaker of the Mississippi House, Philip Gunn, said during a news conference Friday that he would oppose adding an exception for incest. “I believe that life begins at conception,” Gunn said.

Harden said she has been providing information about funds that help people travel out of state to have abortions. Many in Mississippi already were doing so even before the ruling, but that will become more difficult now that abortions have ended in neighboring states like Alabama. Right now Florida is the nearest “safe haven”

state, but Harden said, “we know that that may not be the case for too much longer”.

At the National Right to Life convention in Atlanta, a leader within the antiabortion group warned attendees Saturday that the Supreme Court’s decision ushers in “a time of great possibility and a time of great danger”.

Randall O’Bannon, the organisation’s director of education and research, encouraged activists celebrate their victories but stay focused and continue working on the issue. Specifically, he called out medication taken to induce abortion.

“With Roe headed for the dustbin of history, and states gaining the power to limit abortions, this is where the battle is going to be played out over the next several years,” O’Bannon said. “The new modern menace is a chemical or medical abortion with pills ordered online and mailed directly to a woman’s home.”

Protests broke out for a second day in cities across the country, from Los Angeles to Oklahoma City to Jackson, Mississippi.

In the LA demonstration, one of several in California, hundreds of people marched through downtown carrying signs with slogans like “my body, my choice” and “abort the court”.

Turnout was smaller in Oklahoma City, where about 15 protesters rallied outside the Capitol. Oklahoma is one of 11 states where there are no providers offering abortions, and

it passed the nation’s strictest abortion law in May. “I have gone through a wave of emotions in the last 24 hours... It’s upsetting, it’s angry, it’s hard to put together everything I’m feeling right now,” said Marie Adams, 45, who has had two abortions for ectopic pregnancies, where a fertilised egg is unable to survive. She called the issue “very personal to me”.

“Half the population of the United States just lost a fundamental right,” Adams said. “We need to speak up and speak loud.”

Callie Pruett, who volunteered to escort patients into West Virginia’s only abortion clinic before it stopped offering the procedure after Friday’s ruling, said she plans to work in voter registration in the hope of electing officials who support abortion rights. The executive director of Appalachians for Appalachia added that her organisation also will apply for grants to help patients get access to abortion care, including out of state.

“We have to create networks of people who are willing to drive people to Maryland or to DC,” Pruett said. “That kind of local action requires organisation at a level that we have not seen in nearly 50 years.”

Fellow West Virginian Sarah MacKenzie, 25, said she’s motivated to fight for abortion access by the memory of her mother, Denise Clegg, a passionate reproductive health advocate who worked for years at the state’s clinic as a nurse practitioner and

Photo: Madeleine Cook/Star-Telegram via AP

died unexpectedly in May. MacKenzie plans to attend protests in the capital, Charleston, and donate to a local abortion fund.

“She would be absolutely devastated. She was so afraid of this happening — she wanted to stop it,” Mackenzie said, adding, “I’ll do everything in my power to make sure that this gets reversed.”

The Supreme Court’s ruling is likely to lead to abortion bans in roughly half the states.

Since the decision, clinics have stopped performing abortions in Arizona, Alabama, Arkansas, Kentucky, Missouri, South Dakota, West Virginia and Wisconsin. Women considering abortions already had been dealing with the near-complete ban in Oklahoma and a prohibition after roughly six weeks in Texas.

In Ohio, a ban on most abortions from the first detectable fetal heartbeat became law when a federal judge dissolved an injunction that had kept the measure on hold for nearly three years.

Another law with narrow exceptions was triggered in Utah by Friday’s ruling. Planned Parenthood Association of Utah filed a lawsuit against it in state court and said it would request a temporary restraining order, arguing it violates the state constitution.

Gov Tim Walz of Minnesota, where abortion remains legal, signed an executive order shielding people seeking or providing abortions in his state from

facing legal consequences in other states. Walz also has vowed to reject requests to extradite anyone accused of committing acts related to reproductive health care that are not criminal offenses in Minnesota.

“My office has been and will continue to be a firewall against legislation that would reverse reproductive freedom,” he said.

In Fargo, North Dakota, the state’s sole abortion provider faces a 30-day window before it would have to shut down and plans to move across the river to Minnesota. Red River Women’s Clinic owner Tammi Kromenaker said Saturday that she has secured a location in Moorhead and an online fundraiser to support the move has brought in more than half a million dollars in less than three days.

Republicans sought to downplay their excitement about winning their decades-long fight to overturn Roe, aware that the ruling could energise the Democratic base, particularly suburban women.

Carol Tobias, president of National Right to Life, said she expects abortion opponents to turn out in huge numbers this fall.

But Wisconsin Gov Tony Evers, a Democrat, said Saturday he believes the issue will energise independents and he hopes to translate anger over Roe’s demise into votes.

“Any time you take half the people in Wisconsin and make them second-class citizens,” Evers said, “I have to believe there’s going to be a reaction to that.”

RUSSIA STRIKES KYIV AS LEADERS MEET IN EUROPE KYIV, Ukraine Associated Press

RUSSIA shattered weeks of relative calm in the Ukrainian capital with long-range missiles fired toward Kyiv early yesterday, an apparent Kremlin show-of-force as Western leaders meet in Europe to strengthen their military and economic support of Ukraine.

Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said the missiles hit at least two residential buildings, and killed one person and injured six others, including a seven-year-old girl and her mother. Associated Press journalists saw emergency workers battling flames and rescuing civilians from the buildings.

The strikes also damaged a nearby kindergarten, where a crater pocked the courtyard. US President Joe Biden called the attacks “barbarism” after he arrived in Germany for a Group of Seven summit.

Later yesterday, a local official reported a second death, telling the Unian news agency that a railroad worker was killed and several others were injured in the attacks while servicing rail infrastructure.

Ukrainian air force spokesman Yuriy Ignat said the first air-launched weapons to successfully target the capital since June 5 were Kh-101 cruise missiles fired from warplanes over the Caspian Sea, more than 1,500 kilometers (932 miles) away.

Kyiv’s mayor told journalists he thought the airstrikes were “maybe a symbolic attack” ahead of a NATO summit in Madrid that starts Tuesday. A former commander of US forces in Europe said the strikes also were a signal to the leaders of G-7 nations meeting yesterday in Germany.

“Russia is saying, ‘We can do this all day long.

You guys are powerless to stop us’,” retired Lt Gen Ben Hodges, the former commanding general of US Army forces in Europe, said. “The Russians are humiliating the leaders of the West.”

The G-7 leaders were set to announce the latest in a long series of international economic steps to pressure and isolate Russia over its war in Ukraine: new bans on imports of Russian gold.

Standing with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, the three-day meeting’s host,

Biden said of the missile strikes on Kyiv: “It’s more of their barbarism.”

A Ukrainian parliament member, Oleksiy Goncharenko, wrote on the Telegram messaging app that preliminary information indicated that Russia launched 14 missiles toward the capital region and Kyiv itself, suggesting that some were intercepted.

In a phone interview, retired US General Hodges said that Russia has a limited stock of precision missiles and “if they are using them, it’s going to be for a special purpose”.

Russia has denied targeting civilians during the four-month-old war, and Hodges said it was hard to know if the missiles launched yesterday were intended to strike the apartments buildings.

Russian forces tried to seize control of Kyiv early in the war. After Ukrainian troops repelled them, the Kremlin largely shifted its focus to southern and eastern Ukraine.

Russian rocket strikes in the city of Cherkasy, about 100 miles southeast of Kyiv, killed one person and injured five, regional governor Ihor Taburets said yesterday.

PEOPLE stand behind a police cordon outside a nightclub in East London, South Africa, yesterday, after the deaths of at least 21.

21 DEAD IN NIGHTCLUB JOHANNESBURG Associated Press

SOUTH African police were investigating the deaths of at least 21 people at a nightclub in the coastal town of East London early Sunday and authorities said most of the victims were minors as young as 13 years old It is unclear what led to the deaths of the young people, who were reportedly attending a party to celebrate the end of winter school exams.

Local newspaper Daily Dispatch reported that bodies were strewn across tables and chairs without any visible signs of injuries.

“At this point we cannot confirm the cause of death,” said health department spokesperson Siyanda Manana. “We are going to conduct autopsies as soon as possible to establish the probable cause of death.”

Police minister Bheki Cele said the victims’ ages ranged from 13 to 17, raising questions about why the underaged teenagers were being served alcohol.

President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed condolences to the families of those who died.

“The President is, however, concerned about the reported circumstances under which such young people were gathered at a

venue which, on the face of it, should be off limits to persons under the age of 18,” Ramaphosa said in a statement.

The death toll from the incident rose to 21.

The owner of the club, Siyakhangela Ndevu, told local media he was called to the scene early yesterday morning.

“I am still uncertain about what really happened, but when I was called in the morning I was told the place was too full and that some people were trying to force their way into the tavern,” he said.

“However, we will hear what the police say about the cause of death.”

SPORTS PAGE 14

MONDAY, JUNE 27, 2022

‘Prince Jazz’ and ‘Bahamian Heritage Night’ centre stage

By RENALDO DORSETT Tribune Sports Reporter rdorsett@tribunemedia.net MIAMI, Florida — The Miami Marlins organisation transformed its home stadium into a celebration of the relationship between the franchise and The Bahamas, highlighted by its rising star at second base, poised for his first All-Star appearance.

Bahamian culture took centre stage as the Marlins hosted its second “Bahamian Heritage Night” Saturday at loanDepot Park in Miami, Florida and despite a 5-3 loss to the New York Mets, it was a night of celebration for

Jasrado “Jazz” Chisholm Jr and the Bahamian contingent.

A crowd of 18,722 filled the stadium, the third largest crowd of any Marlins home game this season, as opposed to the 7,500 that attended the first Bahamian Heritage night in 2021. Chisholm wore Bahamian flag themed cleats, batting gloves and a bandanna to commemorate the occasion.

“The first one was definitely crazy but this year it was outstanding, sold out, all my friends, family and loved ones came out to support me, I can’t thank them enough,” he said. “It’s a crazy experience when you

JASRADO “Jazz” Chisholm Jr enjoys Bahamian Heritage Night.

Photo: 10th Year Seniors have all these people that love you and support you and always want you to be yourself and do your best.

There’s nothing better than that.”

In the fifth inning, Chisholm brought the

crowd to its feet with a double off Mets starter Chris Bassitt. As he pulled into second base, Chisholm did his “wheel” celebration and shortly thereafter, the big screen in the stadium showed his grandmother Patricia Coakley in the crowd mimicking the celebration.

“I heard everybody out there, I heard my grandma, I saw her doing the wheel celebration when I hit the double, all of them were doing that up there,” he said. “It was crazy to just have that out there.”

Chisholm had an opportunity to tie the game in the

SEE PAGE 18

Devynne Charlton breaks her national record in 100m hurdles

By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@tribunemedia.net NATIONAL recordbreaking performances by hurdlers Devynne Charlton and Antoine Andrews overshadowed the superb efforts by Olympic champions Shaunae Miller-Uibo and Steven Gardiner during the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations’ National Championships this weekend.

During Friday’s evening session on day one of the two-day meet at the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium, Charlton clocked 12.60 seconds to lower her previous national mark of 12.61 in the women’s 100m hurdles that she established on May 9, 2021.

The race saw Charlton pull away from the rest of the field over the 10 flights of hurdles as Americanborn Haitian Mulern Jean trailed in 12.99, while collegians Denisha Cartwright was third in 13.24 and Sasha Wells fourth in 13.26.

“It was great. I don’t get to compete in front of the home crowd very often so coming home for the trials is always something

special for me and to beat the national record in front of the home crowd was just cherry on the top of the performance,” Charlton said.

Andrews inked his name on the Bahamas under-20 boys’ national record in the 110m hurdles with his time of 13.46 to easily wipe out Shamar Sands’ mark of 13.67 that he posted on July 20, 2002 at the World Junior Championships in Kingston, Jamaica.

In securing the win, Andrews beat out the three-man field of Otto Laing, who was second in 14.29 and Jon-Mark Smikle, third in 15.84.

“I think it was the best I executed all season. I think it was more mind over matter as I went out there and performed my best,” said Andrews in his tuneup for the World Junior Championships in Cali, Colombia, in August where he intends to run faster with more competition.

As expected, Miller-Uibo didn’t disappoint the fans as she coasted to victory in the women’s 400m in 52.62 with collegian Megan Moss returning from Kentucky to pick up second in 53.28 and Jayonya Wilcourt third in 55.24.

DEVYNNE Charlton in action in the 100m hurdles on Friday during the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations National Championships.

Photo: Kermit Taylor “We had a bit of a wait before the race, which I think resulted in the performance,” said MillerUibo, who wanted to run a little faster. “I felt pretty good. I just wanted to get through the round. I felt pretty strong, so I think we’re in good shape for the World Championships.”

Miller-Uibo said she’s been impressed with Moss and was delighted to see her progress. “I was really

relaxed on the back stretch and coming off the curve, I tried to go for it,” Moss said.

“It was such a good opportunity to run against Shaunae. The crowd was so lively and I think that made a difference competing against one of our country’s best athletes.”

The men’s one-lapper saw Gardiner take control on the back stretch and stretched it coming off the

curve to take the victory in 45.32. Grand Bahamian Alonzo Russell was second in 46.41 and Bradley Dormeus was third in 46.70.

“It’s been a good season.

It’s been a short season, but I just want to get ready for the World Championships,” Gardiner said.

“I’m looking forward to going out there and competing and doing my best

SEE PAGE 16

‘BUDDY’ HEADLINES TRAINING CAMP FOR SR MEN’S NATIONAL TEAM

By RENALDO DORSETT Tribune Sports Reporter rdorsett@tribunemedia.net MIAMI, Florida — The Bahamas senior men’s national basketball team is back on the path toward FIBA World Cup 2023 qualification and that journey began in earnest this week with an offsite training camp.

Headlined by Indiana Pacers guard Buddy Hield, the camp’s purpose is to give the roster added days of preparation and bonding experiences headed into a July 1 matchup against the US Virgin Islands at the USVI Sport and Fitness Center.

The team will continue the week long camp at the Miami Lakes Athletics Club until June 30 before they head to USVI. Hield said a different approach has the programme seeking improved results.

“Guys come from different systems, it takes time to gel. For the past few years, we had 2-3 days of practice. Now we have 6-7 days of practice more time to be together instead of going out and just playing basketball,” he said. “It makes more sense, it keeps the team together, helps us build camaraderie, helps us to figure out how we can play together and be as prepared as we can for this window.”

Returning to the team travelling to the USVI will be veterans David Nesbitt, Mychel Thompson, Kentwan Smith Travis Munnings, and Shaquillo Fritz along with collegiate players Franco Miller J and Joshua Dames.

“Guys are playing hard, trying to get everything situated. It’s a fresh group coming together, the coaching staff does a good job keeping everyone grounded and keeping everything simple with our offensive and defensive sets,” Hield said. “It’s a physical group,

SEE PAGE 20

Sydney McLaughlin Italy pips American does it again, breaks men to relay gold in swim worlds finale own world record

By CIARÁN FAHEY AP Sports Writer

By ANNE M PETERSON AP Sports Writer EUGENE, Oregon (AP) — Olympic champion Sydney McLaughlin broke her own world record in the 400-metre hurdles at the US outdoor track and field championships Saturday.

McLaughlin flashed a broad smile when her time was announced, then gave a thumbs-up. She crossed the finish line at Hayward Field in 51.41 seconds, breaking her own record of 51.46 set last year at the Tokyo Games, where she won the gold medal.

“I mean it’s Track Town USA, what do you expect? she said afterward.

“Every time I come here I can just feel something amazing is going to happen.”

Asked how she was going to celebrated afterward, McLaughlin joked: “Eating some real food besides vegetables. Like a cheeseburger or something, some pancakes.”

The top three finishers in each event at the national championships will

SEE PAGE 18

SYDNEY McLaughlin crosses the finish line to set a new world record in the women’s 400 metre hurdles at the US outdoor track and field championships on Saturday, in Eugene, Oregon.

(Chris Pietsch/The Register-Guard via AP)

BUDAPEST, Hungary (AP) — Canadian 15-yearold Summer McIntosh won another gold medal and Italy pipped the United States to the men’s 4x100 medley relay title on the last night of racing at the world swimming championships.

The American women clinched the Unites States’ record 45th medal of the week by winning their 4x100 medley final on Saturday. Regan Smith, Lilly King, Torri Huske and Claire Curzan were 0.47 seconds ahead of Australia and 1.23 ahead of Canada.

“Yeah, I’m pretty tired,” Huske said after her sixth medal in a busy week.

Canadian swimmers finished with 11 medals for their most successful worlds.

SUMMER MCINTOSH, of Canada, competes during her 400m individual medley heat at the 19th FINA World Championships in Budapest, Hungary, on Saturday.

(AP Photo/Petr D Josek) Veteran Gregorio Paltrinieri also won a thrilling men’s 1,500 freestyle, as Italy ended the swimming worlds with five golds.

Paltrinieri was well under world record pace as he built a huge lead over his rivals before eventually finishing in a championship record 14 minutes, 32.80 seconds.

“I knew that they were coming, but I had quite a big lead. So that was enough for me,” Paltrinieri said. “That was my strategy, actually, to go out fast and try to open a gap with the others. So I’m really glad I did it.”

Only Sun Yang’s world record of 14:31.02 from the 2012 Olympics has been faster. The Chinese swimmer is suspended for a doping violation.

Bobby Finke, who has made an art of finishing strongly to overtake rivals, was unable to catch Paltrinieri as he finished 3.90

SEE PAGE 19

THE TRIBUNE

Monday, June 27, 2022, PAGE 15

Davis Cup: Team Bahamas avoids relegation to Group IV

By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@tribunemedia.net

THE Bahamas Davis Cup team, captained by Marvin Rolle and featuring Kevin Major Jr and brother Baker and Spencer Newman, avoided relegation to Group IV in Davis Cup play by winning their final match against Guatemala.

The team was playing in the week-long American Group III competition at the Costa Rica Country Club in Escazu.

The Bahamas was placed in Pool B against teams from Costa Rica, Paraguay and Jamaica.

Pool B consisted of Venezuela, Panama, Puerto Rico and Venezuela.

“It was definitely a tougher Zone two than it was in the past,” Rolle said. “But the guys overall played very well. We didn’t have KJ for the whole time after he got injured in our first match. We had to put Baker in, and he played well. Overall, it was a good performance. At least we were able to stay in the zone and not get relegated.”

Rolle noted that if they had Justin Roberts on the team, he would have helped tremendously.

Roberts was not named to the team because he didn’t participate in the trials. Roberts was named to the last team by virtue of being the top ranked international player for the Bahamas.

But Rolle said after he got hurt and was unable to play any tournaments, he was expected to play in the trials, but he decided not to. He noted that although the Newmans did their job,

By HOWARD FENDRICH AP Tennis Writer

KEVIN MAJOR JR

MARVIN ROLLE

Roberts would have been a great addition.

The Bahamas’ match-up against Guatemala was a crossover in the relegation playoffs after the Bahamas ended up fourth in their poll with a 0-3 win-loss record, while Guatemala was third in their group at 1-2.

In the final showdown, Baker Newman secured the first singles win for The Bahamas in straight sets 6-2, 7-5 over Sebastian Dominguez, while Major Jr won 6-1, 6-2 over Kaen Hernandez.

With the tie completed and the match secured as the Bahamas avoided relegation for 2023, the doubles match was not played.

In the rest of the tournament, Paraguay won

SPENCER NEWMAN

2-0 over Venezuela and advanced to Group II along with Jamaica, who knocked off Panama 3-0 in their playoffs.

The Bahamas, Panama, Costa Rica and Paraguay will remain in Group III for next year, while Guatemala and Puerto Rico will be relegated to Group IV. On the first day of competition on Wednesday, Team Bahamas fought hard against top seed Paraguay but came up short.

Paraguay took the two singles and Bahamas won the doubles.

Spencer Newman played in the singles and lost against Juan Borba 3-6, 3-6.

The Bahamas suffered a setback as Major Jr lost the first set 5-7 to Daniel Vallejo and had to retire at

BAKER NEWMAN

the end of the first set due to a leg injury.

Rolle, who has the most success on the team as a Bahamian in doubles, teamed up with Baker Newman to give Team Bahamas its first match win with a thrilling, three setter over Vallejo and Del Puerto of Paraguay 6-2, 5-7,7-6(5).

On Thursday, Team Bahamas lost 1-2 to Jamaica as Baker Newman fell in straight sets to Rowland Phillips 6-7(1) 5-7.

With Major Jr still nursing an injury, Spencer Newman played and lost to Blaise Bicknell 2-6, 1-6.

As usual, Rolle and Spencer Newman secured the doubles match for The Bahamas 6-2, 6-2 over Jamaica’s duo of Jacob Bicknell and John Chin.

Team Bahamas sustained another loss Friday to host country Costa Rica as Baker Newman won 6-2, 6-0 over Julien Lozano before Spencer Newman lost to Jesse Flores 3-6, 2-6.

Rolle and Baker Newman, however, fell short in doubles 3-6, 2-6 to Flores and Pablo Nunez.

The Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association (BLTA) thanked Rolle, Major Jr and the Newman brothers for a strong showing at the Davis Cup in Escazu. “Their dedication and hard work were evident in Costa Rica.

Despite the injury challenges the team was able to end the tournament with an important win,” the BLTA wrote. “They ensured that The Bahamas remains in the Group III.”

WIMBLEDON 2022: NO RUSSIANS, NO RANKINGS, BUT SERENA’S BACK

By HOWARD FENDRICH AP Tennis Writer WIMBLEDON, England (AP) — At least at the outset, before a tennis ball is struck, this edition of Wimbledon is as much about who — and what — is missing as who’s here.

And that’s even taking this into account: It is no small matter that the grass-court Grand Slam tournament marks the return of Serena Williams to singles play after a year away.

The No. 1-ranked man, Daniil Medvedev, was barred from competing by the All England Club, along with every other player from Russia and Belarus, because of the war in Ukraine.

“It’s a mistake,” International Tennis Hall of Fame member Martina Navratilova said about the ban.

“What are they supposed to do, leave the country? I wouldn’t wish that on my worst enemy.”

Novak Djokovic, the No. 1 seed and three-time defending champion who will play in the first match in Centre Court today, looked at the situation this way: “It’s really hard to say what is right, what is wrong.”

“As a child of a war — several wars, actually, during the ‘90s, I know what it feels like being in (the Ukrainians’) position,” the 35-year-old from Serbia said. “But at the other hand, I can’t say I fully agree (with deciding) to ban Russian tennis players, Belarusian tennis players, from competing indefinitely. I just don’t see how they have contributed to anything that is really happening. I mean, I don’t feel it’s fair.”

The two professional tours reacted by pulling their ranking points from Wimbledon, an unprecedented move in a sport

COULD THIS BE THE YEAR FOR A NEW WIMBLEDON MEN’S CHAMPION?

built around the rankings in so many ways. In turn, some athletes opted not to show up, including 2014 runner-up Eugenie Bouchard and four-time major champion Naomi Osaka.

For others, though, it was a no-doubt-about-it decision to show up. This is, after all, Wimbledon, with its unique surface and long-standing traditions, its powerful prestige and — let’s face it — tens of millions in prize money.

“It’s definitely hard to swallow that there are no points. I’m not going to sit here and tell you I’m happy about it. But the cards are dealt. At the end of the day, if I tell my mom I’m not playing Wimbledon, she’d be like, ‘Are you nuts?!’ So I’m going to go, no doubt,” said Frances Tiafoe, an American who is seeded 24th in the men’s field. “It’s out of everybody’s hands.

It’s a tough situation, a crazy time. And it’s not just about you. It’s not a ‘Why me?’ problem.”

There were rumours among players that prize money would be cut, too, prompting one, Fabio Fognini, to joke that he’d be thankful for that because — without any ranking points available and with less cash on offer — he’d head to an island for some vacation time with his wife, 2015 US Open champion Flavia Pennetta, and their young children.

But it turned out that’s all that was — a rumour: The All England Club wound up announcing it would provide a record total of about 40 million pounds ($50 million) in player compensation.

There are other important names staying away for different reasons.

Reigning women’s champion Ash Barty retired in March at age 25. Eighttime men’s champion Roger Federer still has not

SERENA WILLIAMS, of the US, during a practice session ahead of the 2022 Wimbledon Championship at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, Wimbledon, London, on Saturday.

(John Walton/PA via AP) returned from the latest in a series of knee operations; he has not participated in any tournament since last year’s Wimbledon.

No. 2-ranked Alexander Zverev is sidelined after tearing ligaments in his right ankle at the French Open.

Also gone in 2022 at Wimbledon, for the first time in its lengthy history: a scheduled day off on the middle Sunday (so what had been a 13-day tournament becomes a full two-week event).

Ah, but guess who’s back?

Yes, Williams, thanks to a wild-card invitation, bringing enough star power to fill the spotlight for however long she remains in the bracket.

The owner of seven championships at the All England Club — and 23

from all majors, a record for the professional era — last competed in singles in June 2021, when she slipped on the slick Centre Court grass and injured her right hamstring, forcing her to stop in the first set of her first-round match.

“I didn’t retire. I just needed to heal physically, mentally. And I had no plans, to be honest. I just didn’t know when I would come back. I didn’t know how I would come back,” Williams said Saturday.

“Obviously, Wimbledon is such a great place to be, and it just kind of worked out.”

She made a surprise appearance in doubles with Ons Jabeur on grass at Eastbourne this week, but the 40-year-old American will not have played singles before Tuesday’s matchup

against 113th-ranked Harmony Tan. If Williams can crank up her best-in-the-game serve and move well enough to stay in points until she can end them with her stinging groundstrokes, who knows what she’ll be able to do? Plus, she has made a habit of winning matches soon after returning from lengthy absences.

Also around is Rafael Nadal, who is halfway to a calendar-year Grand Slam for the first time after winning the Australian Open in January and the French Open this month.

The latter title, his 14th in Paris and men’s-best 22nd at a major, came despite chronic pain in his left foot, which made the 36-year-old Spaniard question whether he could be at the All England Club — or continue at all.

“First of all, I can walk normally most of the days, almost every single day.

That’s, for me, the main issue,” Nadal said Saturday. “When I wake up, I don’t have this pain that I was having for the last year and a half. So quite happy about that.”

This fortnight will not lack for story lines, certainly. Full crowds are back after the coronavirus pandemic led to restrictions on spectators last year and the cancellation of the tournament in 2020. This marks the centenary of the current Centre Court, which made its debut in 1922.

French Open champion and top-ranked Iga Swiatek enters on a 35-match winning streak. And Djokovic bids for a 21st Grand Slam trophy, knowing that, as things currently stand, he will not be able to go to the US Open in August because he is not vaccinated against COVID-19 — and he says he won’t get the shots. “That,” Djokovic said, “is an extra motivation to do well here.”

WIMBLEDON, England (AP) — It’s been two decades since the Wimbledon men’s singles championship was won by someone outside the quartet of Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray.

Could this be the year someone else earns that trophy?

“Yeah, why not? What Roger, Rafa, Andy and Novak have done for this sport is really incredible, and they’ve had so many battles.

“But the time is definitely coming for new faces,” said Hubert Hurkacz, a 25-yearold from Poland who beat Federer a year ago on Centre Court en route to the semifinals at the All England Club.

“We’re coming out and playing some really good tennis. It’s definitely getting more competitive. We’re starting to catch up a little bit,” added Hurkacz, who is seeded No. 7 and will face Alejandro Davidovich Fokina as the grass-court Grand Slam tournament begins today. “And it’s interesting for the fans, as well.”

If that streak of titles collected by the so-called Big Four of men’s tennis does come to an end following this fortnight — no sure thing, certainly, because even though Federer, who turns 41 on August 8, isn’t in the field after a series of knee operations, and Murray, 35, is no longer the player he was before two hip operations, Djokovic, 35, and Nadal, 36, are seeded 1-2 and have combined to win 14 of the past 16 major trophies overall — Hurkacz has demonstrated he’s among the contenders with a chance.

He prepared for Wimbledon by beating top-ranked Daniil Medvedev, who won’t be at the All England Club because all players from Russia and Belarus are banned over the war in Ukraine, in the final of the grass-court event at Halle, Germany, on Saturday.

Other names to keep an eye on are Matteo Berrettini, the big-hitting runner-up to Djokovic a year ago who is seeded No. 8 this time and picked up two grass titles in recent weeks; a pair of Canadians, No. 6 Felix Auger-Aliassime, a 2021 quarterfinalist, and No. 13 Denis Shapovalov, a 2021 semifinalist; and No. 4 Stefanos Tsitsipas, whose career record at Wimbledon includes three first-round losses and one run to the fourth round but who believes he can adjust his game to the surface and eventually make his way to the final days of the tournament.

“My tennis is suited for that. I’m a person that likes to work hard, so I see no reason not to get there — because I’m capable with my tennis, I’m capable with my mind, I’m capable with my abilities as a tennis player,” said Tsitsipas, the runner-up to Djokovic on clay at last year’s French Open and the champion on grass at the Mallorca Championships on Saturday.

“I absolutely think that I can get there one day.”

There has been more variety among the women’s title winners lately, with seven players dividing the past eight Wimbledon trophies — and five of them are in the bracket this time: Serena Williams, Simona Halep, Angelique Kerber, Garbiñe Muguruza and Petra Kvitova, who won a trophy on grass at Eastbourne on Saturday.

The 2021 champion, Ash Barty, is not back to defend, because she retired at age 25 in March (2013 winner Marion Bartoli ended her career shortly after her championship).

PAGE 16, Monday, June 27, 2022

THE TRIBUNE

BAHAMAS ASSOCIATION OF ATHLETIC ASSOCIATIONS’ NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

STEVEN Gardiner wins the 400 metres.

Photo: Chris Saunders

BAAA NATIONALS

SHAYAN Demeritte of Swift Athletics wins under-17 girls 100m.

Photo: Chris Saunders

ANTHONIQUE STRACHAN, left, and Shaunae Miller-Uibo.

Photo: Jeff Burnside Jr

FROM PAGE 14

and hopefully bring home a medal for our country.”

The women’s century was won by Tynia Gaither in a close finish ahead of Anthonique Strachan.

However, there was no official time shown.

“It was good. Very good energy from my competitors and the crowd, so I think we all put together a good race,” Gaither said.

“We got a good start. It was a competitive start and that basically set up the rest of the race. I feel I am feeling very strong and should be ready for Worlds. This should be a good one.”

As a result of no times posted, officials set up an invitational race at the end of Friday’s session for those competitors who wanted a time registered.

While Gaither opted not to compete, Strachan took the tape in 11.39 over Camille Rutherford (11.71) and Printassia Johnson (11.74).

“There were six other competitors who competed in the race, so I just went for it,” said Strachan after the invitational.

“I would have loved to have Tynia there, but I had to focus on who was there.”

The men’s straightaway race was won by Grand Bahamian Terrence Jones Jr from Texas Tech in 10.21.

Joanue Guiove of Clemson brought some international flavour as he took second in 12.03 with Ian Kerr third in 10.39 and Guiove’s Bahamian team-mate Wanya McCoy got fourth in 10.42.

“It wasn’t the exact result I was looking for, but I’m just grateful that I came out healthy,” said Jones Jr, who is also preparing for the World Championships.

“My start wasn’t as good as I wanted it. I picked it up midway in the race so I was happy to come back.

It’s always good to be home competing in front of the Bahamian crowd with some good competition.”

Fast Forwards’ Zachary Evans prevailed as the under-20 boys’ champion in the 100m in 10.41 to hold off Swift Athletics’ Carlos Brown Jr (10.45) and Fast Forward’s Keano Ferguson (10.65). “I didn’t have a good start like I normally do,” said Ferguson, who is now preparing to enrol at Purdue University in August. “I was a little slow with my reaction, but I just held my top end, stayed relaxed and I came through with the win.”

The under-20 girls showdown saw Caitlyn Bobb from the Bermuda Pace take the tape in a personal best of 11.70 over Grand Bahamian Shatalya Dorsett, who did 11.71. Asya Stanistaus was third in 12.23.

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ISHMAEL Rolle of Swift Athletics leans to take the under-17 boys 100m over Caldon Whyms.

Photo: Chris Saunders

T-Bird Flyers Nathan Duncan and 4-D Stallions Christopher Saintus go stride for stride in the men’s 5,000m.

Photo: Chris Saunders

CAITLYN Bobb of Bermuda Pace won the under-20 girls 100m.

Photo: Chris Saunders

ANTOINE Andrews in his Bahamas junior national record breaking performance.

Photo: Kermit Tayhlor/Bahamas Athletics “It was a really nice to come and compete here,” Bobb said. “I knew some of the girls from competing at CARIFTA, so it was a good chance to compete against them again in their home.”

Dorsett didn’t compete against Bobb as she was in the under-17 division at CARIFTA, but the Kenyan Knight representative said she wanted to test the waters before she moves up to under-20 next year.

“It was good. I felt I executed well. I was working on my start, so it was good to execute the way I did,” Dorsett said.

“This was a good opportunity for me to see what I need to work on for next year.”

In the men’s high jump, Donald Thomas continued to reign supreme as he prepares for the World Championships, topping the field of young collegians with a leap of 7-feet, 4 ½-inches or 2.25 metres.

Shaun Miller Jr was the runner-up with 7-0 ½ (2.15m) and Kyle Alcine bowed out at 6-8 ¾ (2.05m).

“Glad to be home to compete and to do what I had to do,” Thomas said.

“It was a good competition.

The fellows came out and they competed. I came out competed and did what I had to do. I’m just going to go back home and work on what I need to and come back out.”

Among the highlights on Saturday’s final day of competition was the 200m.

Paige Archer took the title in the under-20 girls 200m race, but no official time was posted.

“It was surreal. Last year I was hurt and this year there was a lot of doubters and haters, but I had to prove them wrong,” said an emotional Archer.

“I thank God for giving me the strength to push through to win it.”

Miller-Uibo came back and delighted the crowd again in the open women’s half-lap race in 22.32 with Strachan giving her a little push down the home stretch in 22.59, while Gaither took third place in 23.19.

“I think it was pretty good. The only thing was waiting so long before the start of the race,” MillerUibo said. “Overall I think the race was pretty good.

I didn’t get to execute the way I wanted to, but I feel good competing here at home.”

For Strachan, she said it was all about having some fun.

“In the call room, we took nothing serious. Doneisha was in there making jokes and so it was great,” Strachan said. “I really enjoyed running with my Bahamian team-mates.”

Strachan, who trains in Jamaica, said the meet was a good indication of the progress she’s made this year trusting in the coaching staff to help her to get ready to take up the challenge like she should at the international senior level.

Winning the men’s halflap race was Ian Kerr of Take Off Athletics (20.84() with McCoy following (20.96) and Haiti’s Bervensky Pierre (21.41).

In the distance races, Nathan Duncan got the win for the T-Bird Flyers in the under-20 boys 5,000m in 17:24.63, followed by 4-D Stallions’ Christopher Saintus in 17:30.49. Denzel Sawyer also of T-Bird, won the 1,500m in 4:17.64 over Saintus, who did 4:17.65.

And Grand Bahamian Erin Barr of the Heats Athletics picked up the win in the under-17 girls’ 1,500m in 5:16.77. Taylor Adderley of Quick Step was second in 6:10.61 and Stacyann Humes of the T-Bird Flyers was third in 6:37.94.

Among some of the other winners over the two days were Unique Athletics’ Tanaz Davis in the under girls 100m (14.99) and 400m (1:21.06); Heats Athletics’ Symone Martin in the under-11 girls 100m (13.95); Swift Athletics’ Rocellis Moxey in the under-13 girls 100m (13.01) and Fast

Track’s Keyezra Thomas in the 400m (1:01.18) and Road Runners’ Jasmine Thompson in the under-5 girls 400m (1:01.77).

Swift Athletics’ Shayan Demeritte won the under17 girls 100m in 12.46 and Fast Forward’s Koi Adderley won the 400m in 58.56.

In the boys division, Swift Athletics’ George Brown took the under-9 100m in 15.25 and 200m (32.59) and X-Treme Athletics’ Aiden Knowles won the 400m in 1:18.33.

Samson Wells of Spirit of Excellence won the under11 boys 100m in 14.10; Furious Athletics’ Travian Humes got the 200m in 29.98 and Patreco Sherman of Swift Athletics won the 400m in 1:098.58.

Swift Athletics’ Lavario Ferguson won the under13 boys 100m in 12.56 and Zion Branford of the Golden Eagles won both the 200m (25.46) and the 400m in 58.70.

Swift Athletics’ Roliny Labranche doubled up as the winner of the under-15 boys’ 100m (11.36) and the 200m (23.12), while Eagan Neely of Red-Kline Athletics took the 400m in 52.37.

Swift Athletics’ Ishmael Rolle emerged as the double winner of the under-17 boys 100m (10.95) and 200m (22.31) and Zion Miller of Speed Dynamics won the 400m inn 49.09.

Puma’s LaQuan Nairn took the open men’s long jump with a leap of 25-8 ¼ (7.83m); Jahn Perinchief of Bermuda Pace won the men’s triple jump (5408/16.66m) over Kaiwan Culmer (52-10/16.10m); Kurt Felix of Elite Performance won the men’s shot put (46-02 3/4/14.09m) and Tarajh Hudson won the discus (165-06/50.44m).

NCAA fourth place finisher Rhema Otabor tossed the open women’s javelin 192-02/58.58m, Tahj’Nee Thurston took the rarely thrown hammer (189-04/57.71m), Tiara Derosa of the Bermuda Pace won the discus (15601/47.58m), Tamara Myers of Leap of Faith won the open women’s triple jump (43-01 ½/13.14m) and long jump (20-02 1/4/6.15m) and Sakari Famous of Bermuda Pace won the high jump with 5-10 ¾ (1.80m).

THE TRIBUNE

Monday, June 27, 2022, PAGE 17

After Shock Amateur Boxing Show in honour of Ray Minus Jr

By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@tribunemedia.net ROYCE Colebrooke, Devaughn Musgrove, Christian Thompson and John Saint Wrint were among some of the top performers on Saturday at the After Shock Amateur Boxing Show that was held in honour of Ray Minus Jr. The first Ray Minus Jr Title Awards Show, dubbed ‘Gloves Up, Guns Down, was held at the National Boxing Centre in the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex and was used as a fundraiser to assist Minus Jr in his medical expenses.

Colebrooke, one of the youngest competitors on the show, produced what turned out to be the fight of the night when he managed to outslug his After Shock team-mate Aiden Cortis for three exciting rounds of non-stop action.

“I feel good because all of my dedication and hard work paid off for me,” said Colebrooke, the 10-year-old son of Bahamas Olympic Committee vice president Roy Colebrooke. “The time that we put into training, I was confident that I would do well. When I came out here I knew I had it.

“The first I took advantage because my family was here pushing me. But after that round, the guy came back at me and I had to come back and step it up because I didn’t want to disappoint my family and my coaches.”

The senior fight of the night didn’t last that long as 6-foot, 3-inch Devaughn Musgrove wasted very little time against Jerome Hart.

In fact, before Hart could get himself established in the ring, the 19-year-old Musgrove was all over him.

“It was a little short, but we put a lot of work into getting me ready for whatever comes in the ring,” said Musgrove, who has only been training since February. “I trained hard daily from Monday to Friday and I was so happy that I was able to come out here and perform.”

With a right hook, followed by a right uppercut, Musgrove took out Hart to

ROYCE COLEBROOKE, DEVON MUSGROVE, JOHN SAINT-WRINT AND CHRISTIAN THOMPSON AMONG THE TOP PERFORMERS

SHOWN, from left to right, are amateur boxers Christian Thompson, Devaughn Musgrove and Royce Colebrooke. end the abbreviated fight in the first round.

“I played this fight over in my head a couple of times, but I didn’t know it was going to end this way,” Musgrove said. “He’s a good fighter, I was just more prepared for the match. I really wanted this.”

Christian Thompson produced another impressive showing for After Shock as he outlasted Ronald Joseph of Inagua.

After watching the punishment their boxer got from a series of combinations from Thompson, Joseph’s corner threw in the towel, signifying that they had seen enough. For his efforts, Thompson was named the most valuable performer (MVP) of the night.

“I thank God. It was a good learning experience.

I really want to thank my coaches Valentino Knowles and Keishno Major for

preparing me and my mommy, Tameka Thompson, who is always there supporting me every step of the way,” said the 20-yearold Thompson, who has been in the boxing game for two years.

“I just came out to put on a show. I really didn’t see when they threw in the towel because I thought I had already won the fight.

When I came out of the ring, my corner told me that I could have stopped him earlier in the fight.”

John Saint-Wrint of Major Pain paid a hefty price during his super heavyweight divisional match-up against the bigger Eric Williams of After Shock.

Saint-Wring had to absorb his breath a couple of times from the blows he sustained from Williams.

In the end, he emerged victorious and was awarded the most improved boxer title as well. “I put in all this

fight and it finally paid off in the end,” said the 22-yearold Saint-Wrint. “This dude was hitting hard, but I came out victorious.”

In other results on the night, Milton Newbold won over his After Shock team-mate Mabian Adderley, Christoph Robinson of Meacher Pain Boxing Club defeated Matthew Dames of After Shock Boxing Club, Maliero Davis of Major Pain Boxing Club won over Simeon Forbes of Mighty Marlins, Renaldo Cunningham of Inagua won over Tamari Adderley of After Shock Boxing Club, Marvin Cortis of Mighty Marlins won over Keano Cox of Inagua and Lareko Baker of After Shock def.

Andrew Cortis of After Shock.

In attendance for the show was Minus Jr, who is recuperating from a series of injuries that have prevented him from

continuing his Champion Amateur Boxing Club programme, which produced co-coaches Valentino Knowles and Keishno Major of the After Shock Boxing Club.

“The show was spectacular. We were pleased with the way things turned out,” said Knowles, one of the top former amateur boxers on the international scene.

“I feel like everything went very well tonight. We couldn’t expect a better performance than we got,” he said.

The Heroes versus Villains Amateur Boxing Show is expected to be the next event staged by the After Shock Boxing Club in another three months.

“We want to say thank you to all of our supporters,” Knowles said. “We want to thank everybody who came out and supported us in this event for Ray Minus Jr, who paved

the way for a lot of us in the sport.”

Y-Care Fashions, A Sure Win, Water and Sewerage, Commonwealth Brewery, Carpet World, Prince Lock and Key, Prestigious Liquor were among the list of sponsors of the event, which provided medals and championship belts for the various winners in each division. “I was happy with the turnout. I was happy that the Bahamian people got a chance to see what the After Shock Boxing Club is all about,” said Keishno Major. “We do have plans to keep this going and to make boxing the number one sport in the country once again. “It was good for the public to get to see the young boxers display their skills and for the boxers to demonstrate to the public that they can compete in this sport.

Hopefully the next show will be bigger and better.”

IT’S PERSONAL: CANELO PREDICTS KO IN 3RD BOUT WITH GOLOVKIN

By GREG BEACHAM AP Sports Writer LOS ANGELES (AP) — Canelo Álvarez is hurting after his first loss in nearly a decade, and he’s still angry about everything that’s happened during five years of fighting and arguing with Gennady Golovkin. Álvarez says he is determined to channel all of those bad feelings into a spectacular knockout win over Golovkin when they complete their rivalry trilogy on September 17 in Las Vegas.

The Mexican superstar declared his third fight with Golovkin to be a grudge match Friday as they began promoting their showdown with a news conference in Hollywood. Álvarez (572-2, 39 KOs) was beaten in stunning fashion by light heavyweight Dmitry Bivol seven weeks ago, but he guaranteed he will “definitely” punch the 40-year-old Golovkin into retirement by stopping him for the first time in his career. “(It will be) so sweet,” Álvarez said. “For me, it’s going to be very satisfying because of everything that’s come around this fight.” Álvarez’s personal dislike of Golovkin seemed awfully genuine, even while Golovkin (42-1-1, 37 KOs) downplayed any personal animus. The fighters stood nose-to-nose and motionless on stage in Hollywood for nearly two full minutes before a fairly terse news conference.

Neither fighter can deny their rivalry has included years of trash talk, particularly after Canelo’s failed drug test in 2018, preceding

SAUL “Canelo” Alvarez holds his belts while posing Friday with opponent Gennadiy Gennadyevich Golovkin, or “GGG,” second from right, and promoter Eddie Hearn, third from right, in Los Angeles. The two are scheduled to fight in a super middleweight title boxing bout September 17 in Las Vegas.

(AP Photo/Greg Beacham) visibly wearier as the fight with Bivol went on.

“He always talks about I’m scared, I’m running away,” Álvarez said. “(He says) I’m not fighting the best guys out there, (while) he’s fighting those Class D fighters. He’s talking a lot of things about me, so that’s why it’s special to me.”

Golovkin will move up to super middleweight for the first time in his

the only loss of Golovkin’s career.

“He always pretends to be a nice guy in front of people, but he’s a (jerk),” Álvarez said. “That’s what he is. I don’t pretend to be nice. This is who I am. I don’t pretend to be another person, and he’s always pretending in front of you, ‘Oh, I’m a nice guy.’ He’s not.”

They’ve also met in two incredibly close fights that stand among the best moments of both fighters’ careers. The first bout in 2017 was ruled a split draw, while Álvarez won the rematch by a narrow majority decision.

Golovkin sought a third fight much earlier than Álvarez. The coronavirus pandemic played a role in Álvarez’s decision to wait four years for the rubber match, but he also admits he waited partly because

he simply doesn’t like Golovkin.

Golovkin dismisses Álvarez’s bold statements about a knockout as fight posturing.

“If it’s so personal for him, my question is why was he putting off the (third fight) for so long?”

Golovkin asked through his interpreter. “If it’s personal, you should ask him why.” Álvarez says it’s because he was busy rounding up all four super middleweight title belts in 2021 — but it’s also because of Golovkin’s trash talk, particularly in languages other than English. Álvarez wasn’t specific about what comments set him off.

Golovkin reacted to his 2018 loss to Canelo with characteristic cool, yet he has fought only four times in the ensuing four years while he sought the chance

for redemption and the massive payday offered by a third fight with Álvarez. Golovkin took 2021 off before returning to the ring last April with a ninthround stoppage of Ryota Murata.

“From an emotional standpoint, I’ve completely cooled down,” Golovkin claimed. “I believe it’s just another fight. But I was still fighting, and he was participating in golf tournaments.

That’s something he should do, but jumping around in weight classes, I don’t know.”

Golovkin’s comment was veiled shade at Álvarez, whose near-daily golf habit became a popular thing to blame for his surprising loss to Bivol last month. Álvarez said he absolutely won’t stop playing golf, but he intends to improve the conditioning that left him

career for the third bout with Álvarez, who holds all four major championship belts at 168 pounds.

Golovkin was the longreigning kingpin of the middleweight division before his loss to Álvarez, but he has since reclaimed two of the belts.

Both fighters live in Southern California.

They’ll meet again today in New York.

PAGE 18, Monday, June 27, 2022

THE TRIBUNE

‘Jazz’ Chisholm Jr and ‘Bahamian Heritage Night’ take centre stage JAZZ

FROM PAGE 14 eighth with the Marlins trailing 4-3, but his shot to centrefield fell just short.

He finished 1-4 on the night. “I definitely wanted that homer. There was nothing more I wanted to do than to do the Euro step with grandma. I think she would have hit it with me, too. It would’ve been sick,” he said. “But it’s okay. We fought hard. We played hard and never gave up until the end. I’m proud of my boys every day.”

Following the game, Chisholm held court with scores of family and friends on the field wearing a gift from his grandmother, a homemade crown of Bahamian flag colours with the phrase “Prince Jazz, the legend has returned.”

“Back home a lot more young people are interested in baseball now because they know they can just have fun and enjoy the game,” he said. “Growing up alot of people never really thought of it that way, there were alot of rules in baseball but now they see that you can go out there, have fun and do whatever you want. It’s a great feeling to be a part of that.”

The celebration featured a pregame Junkanoo rush out led by The Bahamas Junkanoo Revue of Miami and legendary Junkanooers Barabbas Woodside and Langston Longley, as well as a postgame concert featuring popular rhythmic Bahamian music. Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Mario Bowleg, threw out the ceremonial first pitch.

The purchase of a Bahamian Heritage package included an exclusive Bahamian Heritage Marlins jersey and access to the pregame and postgame events. This year, spectators also received a collectible Chisholm bobblehead souvenir, presented by loanDepot.

Part proceeds from the special ticket package will go to The Bahamas Baseball Association to increase investment in local baseball.

Fans celebrated well into the night after gametime

WORLD RECORD

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represent the United States in the world outdoor championships, also at Eugene’s Hayward Field, next month. It is the first time that track and field’s biggest event outside of the Olympics will be held on American soil.

Dalilah Muhammad sat out of the race because of a slight injury, but she has already qualified for the world championships as the defending champion in the event. McLaughlin will

BAHAMIAN culture took centre stage as the Marlins hosted its second “Bahamian Heritage Night” Saturday at loanDepot Park in Miami, Florida and despite a 5-3 loss to the New York Mets, it was a night of celebration for Jasrado “Jazz” Chisholm Jr and the Bahamian contingent.

Photos: 10th Year Seniors enjoying their insight into Bahamian culture.

Antonio Santagelo, a New Yorker now living in South Florida, said he came for the Mets, but enjoyed the entire Bahamian Heritage night experience.

“I’m a Mets, fan, I come from a family of Mets fans and we’re having an awesome season but this is the most fun I think I’ve ever had at a baseball game,” he said. “The music they had before the game with the

festival, the concert after the game, these giveaways.

The energy in there was crazy man. Jazz is a star, the game was really good, but Pete Alonso’s the man and my Mets won so I couldn’t ask for a better night.”

The Mets’ slugger hit a pair of home runs to power the offence of the National League East leaders.

Elliot Rolle, a Bahamian resident in South Florida said: “I love the Heritage nights. I know they have

Italian, Mexican, Puerto Rican, some other countries but nobody does it big like The Bahamas does it man. We give the people Junkanoo and Jazz, that’s what it’s all about. It’s a fun night and it also helps that he’s a great player. I hope he keeps this going not just for these nights but for a lot of the other young Bahamian kids looking up to him pushing to get to this spot.”

Chisholm emerged as the leading voting getter for

National League second baseman after the first return of 2022 MLB AllStar ballots.

In phase one of voting, he leads all second basemen with 634,762 votes, followed by Ozzie Albies of the Atlanta Braves with 589,804 and Jeff McNeil of the New York Mets with 580,257.

Chisholm will need to finish among the top two at the position through the first phase of fan voting

which concludes on June 30. Ballots can be cast on MLB.com up to five times a day every 24 hours.

“It feels great, the American people, the Bahamian people that have been supporting me, everyone that has been showing me love it just feels great and it’s always a great time,” Chisholm said. “I cant thank my friends and family enough and I’m just excited to be in the position that I’m in.”

also be joined on the U.S. team by runner-up Britton Wilson and third-place finisher Shamier Little.

Allyson Felix, the most decorated woman in track history, finished sixth in the 400, in what was her final national championship race. Felix, who announced in April that this will be her final season, is enjoying the final days of her illustrious career — which includes 11 Olympic medals. She plans to run her final official race in her native Los Angeles in August. Despite her finish, Felix will is expected make the mixed relay team at worlds.

NCAA champion Talitha Diggs of Florida won the 400 in 50.22 seconds.

“It was a great field. So just wanted to make sure to maintain my form, engage my core and just push,” Diggs said.

Asked if she was disappointed with the finish, Felix laughed.

“Honestly no. You guys know the 400 is hard for me. It’s not my natural passion, it’s always just been something I challenged myself with,” she said.

Michael Norman ran the men’s 400 in a world-leading 43.56. He finished first at the Olympic trials last

year and went on to place fifth in Tokyo.

World record holder Keni Harrison won the women’s 100 hurdles in 12:34.

Temperatures at Hayward Field on the University of Oregon campus soared to the low 90s. Events for Sunday, the meet’s final day, were moved up earlier in the day because of the heat.

Sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson made it through to the 200 final yesterday by finishing second in her heat.

Richardson, known for her ever-changing hair colour and long nails, did not qualify for the 100 final,

even though she was among the favourites after winning the event at the Olympic trials last year. Richardson did not make the US team for Tokyo after she tested positive for marijuana following the race.

Richardson’s heat was marked by several late scratches, but she finished in 22.69 seconds. Kentucky’s Abby Steiner, who set a collegiate record in the 200 metres at the NCAA track and field championships, had the best time in the heats at 22.14.

American record holder Kara Winger won the javelin with a throw of 210 feet,

10 inches, her ninth career national title in the event.

Sinclaire Johnson, the 2019 NCAA champion, won the 1,500 in 4:03.29. Keturah Orji set a meet record in the triple jump at 48-6 1/4.

On the men’s side Cooper Teare finished first in 3:45.86. Teare was also entered in the 5,000 yesterday, the final day of the meet. Olympic silver medallist Chris Nilsen won the pole vault. Hillary Bor won the steeplechase by such a wide margin he pointed to the stands in celebration down the stretch. Daniel Haugh won the title in the hammer.

THE TRIBUNE

Monday, June 27, 2022, PAGE 19

SWIM WORLDS

TEAM of the United States celebrates winning the women’s 4x100m medley relay at the 19th FINA World Championships in Budapest, Hungary, on Saturday, June 25.

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behind in an American record 14:36.70. “In the beginning, I was just trying to keep up with him, but he just kept getting farther and farther ahead,” Finke said.

“Hats off to Greg. I wasn’t able to run him down. He had a great race, and I’m really proud of him.”

Finke’s silver was America’s record-breaking 39th medal this week, eclipsing its tally from Budapest in 2017.

McIntosh wrapped up a highly successful week for Canadian swimming with her second world title after the 200 butterfly, clocking 4:32.04 in the women’s 400 individual medley. It was yet another world junior record for the teen, who is doing little to keep down expectations.

McIntosh said she’s not focusing on placement but was more concerned about how she executes each race.

“I’ve accomplished that and met my expectations when it comes to splits and targets, I mean swimming them and pushing my body as hard as possible. So I’m overall really happy.” McIntosh said.

Katie Grimes, who is just seven months older than McIntosh, pushed her rival all the way before finishing 0.63 seconds behind for silver.

“I was just having a good time racing Summer. I have a feeling that this is a long future,” Grimes said. “I’m happy to get it started.”

Another American, Emma Weyant, was third, 3.96 behind.

After some confusion, the United States’ Justin Ress was confirmed as the men’s 50 backstroke champion.

Ress’ elation at winning the race in 24.12 ended promptly when he was disqualified for being submerged at the finish. Teammate Hunter Armstrong, who finished two-hundredths of a second behind, was awarded the win, while the 17-year-old

(AP Photo/Petr David Josek) Ksawery Masiuk of Poland was bumped up to silver and Italy star Thomas Ceccon grabbed the bronze.

FINA later overturned the disqualification, meaning Ress was awarded gold, Armstrong silver and Masiuk bronze.

“That’s probably the worst possible way a race could go,” Ress said.

Sweden’s Sarah Sjöström won the women’s 50 freestyle for her 10th gold at a worlds, all in individual events. It was the second time she completed the 50 free/butterfly double at a single worlds after Budapest in 2017.

Italy didn’t have it all its own way when Lithuanian swimmer Ruta Meilutyte upset world record holder Benedetta Pilato by one tenth of a second to win the women’s 50 breaststroke in 29.70.

“It’s nice to be a world champion, I’m super proud of myself,” said Meilutyte, who claimed her second world title nine years after winning the 100 breaststroke in 2013. “I’m grateful for every step taken in my life, the bad ones and the good ones as well.”

Italian journalists, team officials and support staff applauded when Paltrinieri came through the mixed zone following his tilt at the world record. Ceccon also interrupted Paltrinieri’s interviews to give his teammate a hug.

The Italians were celebrating again later when Ceccon, Nicolo Martinenghi, Federico Burdisso and Alessandro Miressi set a European record of 3:27.51 to win the men’s 4x100 medley by 0.28 seconds ahead of the Americans.

PAGE 20, Monday, June 27, 2022

BUDDY

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guys know how to play the right way. We’re working hard on defence, trying to figure out how to play together and we’ll see what happens in USVI.” The Bahamas will host the second matchup of the window at home at the Baha Mar resort against the Dominican Republic at 7pm on July 4.

Golden State Warriors assistant coach Chris Demarco is in his third year at the helm of the Bahamian national team.

“We’re pretty excited, it’s nice to have a consistent group now.

We’ve had some of these guys for about four years now, same personalities, have an understanding of our style of play and there’s a lot of leadership here so. We’ve had a few guys that have played before for the national team that were in the area and have come out to practice to help us out so there have been some great turnouts,” he said. “This is the first

THE TRIBUNE time we’ve had a camp outside of where we were going to play.

It’s a good chance for these guys to hang out, have some meals together, get to know each other better, and build chemistry. Obviously, it gives us a better chance to prepare and preparation is key for these things where you don’t know who’s going to play for you, you don’t know who you’re playing against so it’s important that we just get this time together to take care of us and then we worry about the opponent.”

Ole Miss women’s basketball head coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin will serve as an assistant coach and became the first woman to join the coaching staff of a Bahamas senior men’s national basketball team.

“Great communication, great defensive intensity right now and I feel like guys are starting to lock in as we get closer to participation,” she said. “Obviously I understand what it’s like to be a head coach so I am trying to be a great assistant for coach

HEAD coach Chris DeMarco with assistant coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin. At top right is McPhee-McCuin and Indiana Pacers’ Buddy Hield.

Photos: 10th Year Seniors Demarco. Just being a steady voice, making sure that whatever it is that he wants to run I am reiterating that, the guys have been receptive and I just want to fill in the gaps where needed.

Team Bahamas was drawn into Group C alongside Canada, The Dominican Republic and The US Virgin Islands.

Canada leads the group at 4-0, The Dominican Republic is 3-1, The Bahamas is 1-3 and the Virgin Islands are 0-4.

In November’s first window, The Bahamas suffered a 115-73 loss to Canada in the first game of a back-to-back in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. Canada took a decisive 113-77 win in the second game. Team Bahamas split the pair of games in the second window in February. They won 86-76 over the USVI and lost 90-65 to The Dominican Republic at the Palacio de los Deportes in the Dominican Republic. The win over the USVI was the second

win for The Bahamas in the history of World Cup qualification, following a 2019 win over the Dominican Republic.

Sixteen teams will compete in the Americas region, vying for seven spots.

The top three teams from each group will qualify for the second round of qualifiers.

In the second round, the 12 teams that qualified will be divided into two groups of six.

Subsequently, the three best teams from each group, and the fourth-placed team, will qualify for the World Cup. The FIBA World Cup 2023 is scheduled for August 25 to September 10 in multiple countries for the first time - Indonesia, Japan and the Philippines.

A total of 80 countries are left vying to be among the 32 teams at the 2023 World Cup. The FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 will qualify teams directly for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games or through four FIBA Olympic qualifying tournaments.