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Volume: 112 No.234

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2016

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A Bahamas love affair Filmmaker’s admiration for the nation - inside Weekend

culture boo ks theatre television Friday, Novemb fashion mus er 11, 2016 ic food rela tionships

Weekend

beach party FuN Pages 14&15

A love affa ir

Filmmaker celebrates Bahamas de but

Interview, pages 4&5

SYMONETTE REFUSES TO CONFIRM ST ANNE’S RUN

A NEW ERA

University of The Bahamas chartered

By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter rrolle@tribunemedia.net DURING a lengthy ceremony yesterday full of pomp and pageantry, the country celebrated a milestone as the University of The Bahamas was chartered at the Thomas A Robinson stadium.

Men, women and children of all ages were dressed in blue to mark the historic occasion.

Lecturers beamed, emphasising that the moment was overdue.

Leading officials expressed

pride and relief and spoke of the expansion and growth that will define the institution’s future.

Students also cheered the milestone, celebrating the fact that their college experience will coincide with what is expected to be a robust period of expansion.

“This day has been long in coming,” Prime

Minister Perry Christie said. “It has been in incubation for many a long year. But it has at last arrived.”

Mr Christie said the country will look to UB to play an important role in national affairs.

“Students must have the proper facilities to work in and this should include a modern, state-of-the art performing arts theatre; a

musical conservatory; and ample studio space,” he said. “The nation will increasingly be looking to the University of The Bahamas to provide the public with a robust and active arts calendar. There is growing appetite for more musical concerts, dance performances, plays, poetry recitals, book readings, and art shows, to meet our need for these finer pleasures. The civilising effect that such experiences can have on the nation should not be underestimated.”

SEE PAGES TWO & THREE

STILL NO LETTER OF INTENT FROM BAHA MAR BUYER

By KHRISNA VIRGIL Deputy Chief Reporter kvirgil@tribunemedia.net

THE government has still not received a letter of intent from prospective buyer of Baha Mar, Hong Kongbased Chow Tai Fook Enterprises (CTFE), to operate the casino at the $3.5bn West Bay Street development, according to Tourism Minister Obie Wilchcombe yesterday.

The minister, who has responsibility for gaming, said this is because CTFE is in the midst of “finalising arrangements with the state, the Bahamas government and the operators” of Baha Mar. Once this phase is complete, Mr Wilchcombe said he expects to receive the LOI at “any moment now”.

Last week, former Baha Mar Director Dionisio

FLAVOR UP!

D’Aguilar charged that CTFE was “unsuited to invest in The Bahamas”.

He went on to raise alarm over the Cheng Yu Tung family’s inability to obtain casino licensing in two US states, and its alleged “welldocumented connection to organised crime in Asia”.

The “well-documented connection” likely refers to the Cheng family’s – owners of CTFE – link to billionaire Stanley Ho through

TEL: 603-3333 | www.pizzahutnassau.com

SEE PAGE THREE

MINISTER of Tourism Obie Wilchcombe.

MAN JAILED FOR EIGHT YEARS FOR SEX ATTACK ON CHILD IN HIS CARE

By LAMECH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter ljohnson@tribunemedia.net

A MAN was sentenced yesterday to eight years in prison for sexually assaulting a child entrusted to his care last year.

Clyde Bethel, 46, appeared before Justice Gregory Hilton facing between seven years and life in

MAKE IT GREAT ®

its stake in Macau group STDM. Mr Ho and his associates have reportedly been unsuccessful in attempts to expand gaming interests into Australia, Canada and other countries due to alleged associations with Chinese triad gangs in his Macau casinos.

At the time, Mr Wilchcombe insisted that upon

prison for his conviction on a count of unlawful sexual intercourse stemming from the assault of a 13-year-old girl on October 23, 2015.

The 13-year-old was a guest at the residence of the convict and his wife when the incident occurred.

“In exercising my discretion in sentencing, I must consider those factors which are both mitigating

and aggravating about the offence and the offender,” Justice Hilton said.

“In applying the principles of sentencing to the facts of this case and notwithstanding that no weapon or excessive force was used, a sentence is required which is sufficient to express the community’s SEE PAGE SIX

By KHRISNA VIRGIL Deputy Chief Reporter kvirgil@tribunemedia.net

FREE National Movement Chairman Sidney Collie and former Deputy Prime Minister Brent Symonette yesterday refused to confirm or deny that the latter is under consideration for a run in the St Anne’s constituency, amid speculation that he could make a surprise political comeback ahead of the 2017 general election.

Asked about his political prospects yesterday, Mr Symonette remained tightlipped saying: “When and if I am going to run in any constituency I will let you guys know.”

SEE PAGE SIX

WORLD DIABETES DAY SUPPLEMENT INSIDE

EARLY RETURN TO WORK POSSIBLE AT OCEAN CLUB

By NICO SCAVELLA Tribune Staff Reporter nscavella@tribunemedia.net

EMPLOYEES at the One&Only Ocean Club resort may return to work ahead of the luxury resort’s Valentine’s Day 2017 reopening date for “training” purposes, Bahamas Hotel Catering and Allied Workers Union President Nicole Martin said yesterday.

Ms Martin, in an interview with The Tribune, said that while the One&Only Ocean Club’s scheduled February 14, 2017 opening date is still in effect, employees may have a chance of returning to work early SEE PAGE SIX

TURNQUEST ALARM AT LOW VOTER REGISTRATION

By RICARDO WELLS Tribune Staff Reporter rwells@tribunemedia.net FORMER National Security Minister Tommy Turnquest, the minister with responsibility for elections in the last Ingraham administration, yesterday voiced concern with low voter registration.

Speaking to The Tribune on the issue, the former Mount Moriah MP implored the Christie administration to expand registration drives throughout the country, calling particularly for events geared toward SEE PAGE FIVE

PAGE 2, Friday, November 11, 2016

THE TRIBUNE

A FANFARE for the new University of The Bahamas at yesterday’s ceremony.

Fresh Prepared, In-store, Daily.

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UNIVERSITY of The Bahamas president Dr Rodney Smith.

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SOME of those attending the charter ceremony at the Thomas A Robinson national stadium.

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, November 11, 2016, PAGE 3

STILL NO LETTER OF INTENT FROM BAHA MAR BUYER from page one

receipt of the LOI, the government would begin due diligence on the Hong Kong conglomerate to ensure that any decision made is in the best interest of the country, the Bahamian people, and the gaming industry.

He explained that the government had only had two preliminary meetings with CTFE. “We have had preliminary meetings with the group,” Mr Wilchcombe told The Tribune. “We are aware that they are operating in several countries as partners in casinos, and as operators in others.

“We’ve met with them twice, just to determine the extent of their involvement globally. They have major brands under their company, so we were very enthused by that,” he said previously. “Of course we will do our due diligence to ensure whatever decisions are made, are made in the interest of not only The Bahamas and Bahamian people but also the integrity of Bahamian gaming jurisdiction.”

In late October, Mr Wilchcombe said the due diligence process will take at least three weeks.

CTFE later refuted assertions that it was “unsuited to invest in the country,” stating its commitment to integrity and good governance in business operations worldwide.

The enterprise said it has never applied for a casino licence in the United States, and as such, has never been denied by that jurisdiction.

CTFE emphasised that it is a privately held business that identified The Bahamas as a “unique growth opportunity”.

CTFE said: “CTFE has never applied for a casino license in the US and, a consortium including CTFE has just been approved for the granting of a casino license in Queensland, Australia.

“Further, the Cheng family is an investor in Sociedade de Turismo e Diversões de Macau (STDM), which owns the gaming subsidiary, SJM Holdings Ltd (SJM).

“In addition, the Cheng family’s role in the Macau casino is strictly as an investor with no involvement in day-to-day management of the casino or oversight of the gaming industry in Macau.

“As a company, we are committed to integrity and good governance in all of our business operations worldwide. There will be no affiliation on this project with STDM or SJM,” the conglomerate added.

It was revealed that CTFE was in talks over the troubled Cable Beach resort two weeks ago in a statement issued by the Hong Kong-based firm.

GOVERNOR General Dame Marguerite Pindling, centre, unveils the plaque at the entrance of the new University of The Bahamas. Also pictured: Prime Minister Perry Christie (centre left), FNM leader Dr Hubert Minnis (centre, second left); Minister of Education, Science and Technology Jerome Fitzgerald (centre right), and President of the University of The Bahamas Dr Rodney Smith (centre, second right).

Photo: Derek Smith/BIS

A NEW ERA AS UNIVERSITY OF THE BAHAMAS IS CHARTERED from page one

He added: “The university must be a place of relevance within both the national and global contexts.

It is, therefore, critical that (the) university not only respond to national needs but also engage the country in meaningful discussions.

The university must continue to have a voice in matters of national and global importance.”

For his part, UB President Dr Rodney Smith said the university will become both a centre of excellence and an economic source of development.

“It is our hope to establish a medical campus, in the near future, that will house our schools of nursing, pharmacy, physical therapy and applied health professions,” he said. “It

will have a medical clinic as well as a fully functioning pharmacy. This facility will serve as the foundation for the University’s School of Medicine.”

Similarly, Dr Smith spoke of manufacturing, engineering and entrepreneurial studies focus in Grand Bahama, an anthropology, oceanography and geology focus in San Salvador and a sustainable development focus in Exuma and Eleuthera.

UB is in the process of acquiring globally recognised accreditations.

It is seeking accreditations through the National Accreditation and Equivalency Council of The Bahamas, America’s Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, the European Union, the United Kingdom and others.

Key development projects

for UB are already underway. The university has, for instance, signed contracts in a $100 million project to build a 1,000-bed, living and learning residential facility “that will include a cafeteria, fitness facilities, swimming pool, study rooms, additional classrooms, retail spaces, a ball room and a parking deck,” according to Dr Smith.

It is expected that the institution, which critics say has long lacked sufficient money to fund expansion needs, will become a much greater recipient of funds now that its ties to the government has been cut.

Dr Smith previously told The Tribune he expects more than $500m to be spent over the next several years to fund construction projects, technological upgrades and infrastructural developments.

BISHOP Laish Boyd blesses the plaque. Photo: Derek Smith/BIS

PRIME Minister Perry Christie speaks at the University of The Bahamas Charter Day. Photos: Tim Clarke/Tribune Staff

BUSH FIRE CONTINUES TO AFFECT WESTERN NEW PROVIDENCE

By SANCHESKA DORSETT Tribune Staff Reporter sdorsett@tribunemedia.net

FIREFIGHTERS are battling a massive bush fire that has been burning for two days in western New Providence.

Fire Chief Superintendent Walter Evans said at this time, the fire poses no immediate threat to nearby homes in the Lyford Cay area and surrounding communities.

However, Supt Evans said because the fire is a few hundred feet into the bushes, there is no path for firefighters to get to the blaze.

He is asking residents in the area to be patient, as his team attempts to “make a road” in order to extinguish the blaze.

“The fire is still burning and it has gotten pretty big but it is still no threat to

homes,” Supt Evans said. ported that the air was thick “Right now the only with drifting smoke from threat is the smoke but at the fire, which appeared to this time we have no access be emanating from someto the fire. It’s burning sev- where behind the Old Fort eral hundred feet into the Bay shopping centre. bushes. We have gotten the assistance of some heavy duty machines so we can get road access and then we will be able to tackle the blaze from there.”

Residents of Lyford Cay and nearby communities re-November 2016 Friday, 11th

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MINISTER of Education Jerome Fitzgerald, Prime Minister Perry Christie, Deputy Prime Minister Philip Davis and FNM leader Dr Hubert Minnis march to the Thomas A Robinson national stadium for the University of The Bahamas Charter Day ceremony.

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PAGE 4, Friday, November 11, 2016

THE TRIBUNE

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

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Publisher/Editor 1903-1914 Kt., O.B.E., K.M., K.C.S.G., (Hon.) LL.D., D.Litt .

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Shock election result in divided America AMONGST so many superlatives, the description of Donald Trump’s victory in Tuesday’s US presidential election as one of the most extraordinary days in American political history was perhaps the most extreme.

It reflects a stunning upset precipitated by his success in tapping into the discontent of a majority of American people who did not like the way the nation was going and wanted to bring about change.

It became clear that they had developed into a populist and anti-establishment movement which saw him as potentially a strong leader capable of delivering the change they were seeking.

Despite our continuing condemnation in these columns of the President-elect as an unsuitable person to have been the Republican nominee, it is incumbent on all who are committed to democracy to respect the institution of the presidency and wish him well. As Hillary Clinton said in her dignified and gracious farewell address, it is the responsibility of all citizens to be inclusive and big hearted and co-operate in seeking to build a fairer and better America because “we owe Donald Trump an open mind and a chance to lead”.

The US’ constitutional democracy provides for a peaceful transfer of power.

The election has shown a divided and fragmented country. However, despite a bitter and messy campaign, both this speech and Mr Trump’s conciliatory and reassuring acceptance speech, calling for unity while praising his opponent and thanking her for her public service, augur well for future national stability.

A cursory look online at the foreign press reveals widespread fear of a Trump presidency given the extreme policy positions on international issues which he put forward during the campaign. But already, while putting America first, he has pledged to seek common ground rather than conflict. There is also apprehension at home about a likely radical policy agenda. This could lead to an intensification of the age-old struggle between the power of government and the protection of individual rights and liberty.

Students of American history are familiar with the well known dictum of the famous sage and luminary Benjamin Franklin that those who give up essential liberty to purchase a little safety will end up having neither. The modern interpre-

tation of this is that even in a democracy it is important to limit the power of government - and this will become more important under a new president determined to push through change and reform with the Republicans now in control of both the Senate and the House of Representatives.

To outside observers, the capacity of the US to organise and run presidential and congressional elections on such a huge scale, involving over 100 million voters and announcing the results the same day, is an impressive achievement. It was a showcase for the exercise of democracy.

However, the corruption and wrongdoing which were revealed - not least through Wikileaks - during the ugly and nasty campaign preceding it provoked disillusion and disgust with the whole political process which should have been less flawed in a country founded on the basis of ‘government of the people, by the people, for the people’. It remains to be seen whether the new President will be able to clean out the mythical Augean stables or, in his own words, drain the swamp of Washington.

The election of an outsider to the US presidency has amounted to a peaceful revolution based on dissatisfaction with the political class. There are claims that this could justifiably be linked to Britain’s referendum vote to leave the European Union three months earlier, which itself demonstrated the gap in the United Kingdom between the establishment and the people.

One early effect of a new administration in Washington is the possibility of filling the post of American ambassador in Nassau again after it has been vacant since 2011. According to the US Acting Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs, who was in town recently, a new government is likely to make such an appointment.

Something similar to the populist movement behind the US election and ‘Brexit’ could well spread to smaller countries like our own. Anger with the ruling Progressive Liberal Party government has grown steadily in the face of policy failures, corruption and gross mismanagement in many areas including the economy, a string of scandals and a widespread disregard for the people. For many, next year’s General Election here cannot come soon enough in order to bring about a new government and much needed change.

Hysteria or not?

EDITOR, The Tribune.

THE Xenophobic Free National Movement “PM: FNM creating Chinese hysteria – Minnis says issues has to do with govt.’s non-transparency” – The Nassau Guardian Excerpt from this article; “Prime Minister Perry Christie and Free National Movement (FNM) Leader (Dr) Hubert Minnis yesterday exchanged political blows in the House of Assembly over the relationship successive governments have had with the People’s Republic of China, with the prime minister accusing the Official Opposition of fuelling ‘hysteria’ over Chinese investment in the country.’

Again, the Prime Minister chooses to misrepresent the facts in order to justify his way of; doing business’, on behalf of the people of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas.

It is indeed interesting that the prime minister and his government would accuse the Free National Movement of “creating hysteria” and promoting xenophobia against the People’s Republic of China, while at the very same time accusing them (the Free National Movement) of being the ones that “opened the door” and inviting the Chinese in

as investors in the first place.

“PM blasts FNM over Chinese deals” – The Tribune.

Excerpt from this article; “Teasing documents that detail the previous administrations efforts to partner with the Chinese government for the development of agriculture and fisheries, Prime Minister Perry Christie, yesterday criticised the Free National Movement and its Leader Dr Hubert Minnis for “emotionally exploiting” Bahamians anxiety over Chinese investment.

“In Parliament yesterday Mr Christie revealed that the previous FNM administration held talks with the People’s Republic of China and private Chinese companies through the Bahamas State Investment Administration Bureau for projects and cooperatives, which included Crown Land acquisition.

However, he stopped short of tabling documents, and instead invited Dr Minnis to review the files so that he could be informed without “having to make it into some ridicule of a nation.”

I am awaiting to see where it has been documented that the Leader of the Free National Movement has ever said or implied that the FNM did not do business with the Chinese or that the current government should not; this is where the Prime Minister

and his government wishes to be less than honest with the people of The Bahamas and lead them down a “dark road” of misinformation.

It is interesting that the Prime Minister can refer to the Bahamas State Investment Administration Bureau, to detail the dealings of the Free National Movement with the People’s Republic of China (PRC), but yet have us wait on the details of the “secret” and sealed deal between his administration and the PRC on such important issue as Baha Mar and have us only finding out through “leaked” information about Minister V Alfred Gray giving authority to the ambassador to China to have “talks” regarding a $2.1 billion agrifisheries initiative and now talks about a forestry deal; all behind closed doors under the cover of darkness.

Dr Minnis says it is best in response to the Prime Minister’s claim of the FNM creating “Chinese hysteria”.

“However, Minnis said the FNM has no fundamental issue with the Chinese, but with the level of transparency, or lack thereof, with which the Christie administration conducts business with the giant eastern trading partner.”

ADRIAN RAMSEY Nassau, November 8, 2016.

Investing in our agriculture EDITOR, The Tribune.

THE reality of investing in Bahamian agriculture is ‘harsh’ because of the nature of our natural and economic environments. There is little that can be done with our natural surroundings, but the economic one may certainly be modified.

The islands of the northern Bahamas are most suited to agricultural development because of the climate, the low and flat nature of land systems (pine), and easy access to water.

Along with these factors comes the suitability to mechanisation. Converting this land to agriculture includes initial tree removal, converting the rock into ‘soil’, and preparing for planting, all involving the use of heavy equipment.

However, it must be understood that the capital investment for machine operated farms is extremely high, and equipment is used for initial land clearing, preparation, planting and grow out, and finally for harvest, storage, and transport to markets(s).

Equipment maintenance and repair must also be factored in. This will immediately eliminate the small holding enterprise unless co-operative type groupings can be utilised. However to date most producer cooperative initiatives have failed to become well established and functional.

In addition the high costs of other inputs and supplies also limits entrepreneurial interest and investment. All additives to the farm enterprise must be imported, including machinery, fuels (energy), seeds, fertilisers, pesticides, irrigation products, grading equipment, packaging materials, storage systems, and finally transport systems and methods.

LETTERS letters@tribunemedia.net Importation costs (shipping) are high and then, adding taxes, duties and VAT will necessarily add considerably to input prices.

The comparative cost of labour must also be considered because farm operations require labour for machinery operation through to harvesting, grading, and packing. Labour costs here in the Bahamas are much higher than in other countries in our region, which must also have an effect on marketed product competitiveness.

In countries that value the importance of agriculture as a contributor to the economy, systems are in place to assist farming ventures in limiting costs.

These include direct and indirect subsidies, outreach programmes, and crop insurance. Along with these goes guaranteed prices and payment even for a failed crop. Fuels and energy are duty (excise) free, and environmentally sound practices are rewarded. These then allow for the encouragement and survival of agriculture as part of the overall economic landscape.

Finally, these countries impose quotas, embargoes, and high tariffs on imported product, and so protect the home market. This is often regarded as a trade barrier.

At the present time, many international treaties and conventions are being negotiated and ratified in an effort to free up trade barriers and allow easy access to markets by signature countries and regions.

Two such examples are NAFTA (Mexico, Canada, and the US), and the WTO

(World Trade Organisation) which both are designed to eliminate “artificial trade barriers” between member states. It must seem ironical that countries erect these walls against free trade, and then enter into trade agreements to break them down again.

Here in The Bahamas the agricultural ‘industry’ gets very little support from the government, which adds to the harsh environment farming enterprises face.

If the government were serious about encouraging agricultural development it would re-introduce the concessions and exemptions offered previously, and also introduce new ones such as duty free fuel, and ag. and processing supplies and inputs, business registration simplification are just a start.

This way, a more favourable environment will be presented to the farming entrepreneur, allowing him/her to become a little more competitive in the market place.

Why is it necessary for The Bahamas to actively seek foreign investment in agriculture? I know foreign direct investment is essential, but how does a foreign capitalised venture become more sustainable and successful than the already disadvantaged local one? Is it due to economies of scale, concessions offered, taxes mitigated or exempted?

If The Bahamas is even to attempt food sufficiency, the environment surrounding agriculture must become much more economically and business healthy to even encourage genuine local investment.

JOHN HEDDEN Abaco, November 10, 2016. email jondgaul@gmail. com

A stroke of Perfect Luck EDITOR, The Tribune.

THE Chinese are working out their long term geo-political strategy.

The Government is playing for short term immediate gain.

One hand can wash the other. What Perfect Luck! Too bad for the non-players.

LEANDRA ESFAKIS Nassau, November 1, 2016.

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, November 11, 2016, PAGE 5

PUBLIC WARNING OVER PENALTIES FOR GARBAGE DUMPING

THE SCENE behind the National Sports Centre yesterday where hurricane detritus has been dumped.

Photo: Valden Fernander

THE public is being warned that dumping of debris in any space - private or public - not deemed an authorised dumpsite is illegal and in breach of The Environmental Health Act, Chapter 232 and the Health Regulations.

Section 23, Subsection 4 of

the Act states that anyone found guilty of this offence will be fined $300 or face four months imprisonment, the Department of Environmental Health Services has advised.

The public is further advised that anyone caught dumping de-

bris in any unauthorised location will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

The authorised site for disposal of hurricane vegetative (tree/ plant) debris/waste is the waste disposal site at the Tonique Williams Darling Highway.

In Grand Bahama, Andros, New Providence and other areas impacted by Hurricane Matthew, residents should use approved public dumpsites for disposing of household appliances, furniture and vegetative materials.

Collie hits out at PLP after Gray admission on letter

By RICARDO WELLS Tribune Staff Reporter rwells@tribunemedia.net FREE National Movement Chairman Sidney Collie yesterday fired the latest shots in the ongoing war of words surrounding that $2.1bn agri-fisheries proposal with Chinese investors, as he criticised Agriculture Minister V Alfred Gray for his admission that he had not revoked his letter authorising the Bahamas ambassador to China to discuss the plan.

Mr Collie, in a statement released last evening, questioned what it would take for the Christie administration to stop its “ill-advised efforts”, contending that the party seems dedicated to its plans despite “enormous outrage from the people”.

On Wednesday, Mr Gray confirmed that he had not withdrawn his now contro-

versial letter to Bahamas Ambassador to China Paul “Andy” Gomez in which he gave the diplomat the approval to pursue investment opportunities in China, centred on agriculture efforts in Andros.

Speaking to this declaration, Mr Collie said the PLP’s Chinese allies have to be “very impressed” with the government’s “resolve to ignore Bahamians”.

Mr Collie went on to say that it was the kind of loyalty “only money can buy”.

“Public uproar, calls for his resignation, and thousands of Bahamians signing a petition against this give away be damned, Minister Gray continues to move forward with this scandalous proposal that would do irrevocable damage to our people and their birthright,” Mr Collie said.

“He continues to offend the Bahamian people every day that he continues to

support this proposal and refuses to resign. Sadly Minister Gray’s actions have become common place to the Bahamian people who know Gray’s allegiances lie with foreign allies, not to the people he should serve,” he said, adding that Mr Gray has no credibility.

The FNM chairman renewed calls for Mr Gray’s resignation, insisting that the move would better serve the Bahamian people, more so than the minister’s “ridiculous comments suggesting Bahamians are not interested in farming and that we need Chinese experts to show us how to fish our waters”.

Mr Gray on Wednesday responded to the two initial stories on the controversy that were printed in The Nassau Guardian last week.

As anger over those initial reports surfaced, Mr

TURNQUEST ALARM AT LOW VOTER REGISTRATION from page one

attracting young voters.

Stopping short of blaming voter apathy for low registration numbers thus far, Mr Turnquest said new and innovative strategies had to be employed to attract those persons “needing that extra push.”

“Obviously there has to be great concern when you consider the reports we have seen in the media to this point,” he said. “There has to be a concentrated effort to get those who are eligible to vote to come out and register. Encouragement is needed in this case and that is clear.

“To be clear, the way the register looks at this point, it is going to take a great effort, that much is clear. But it is an effort that has to be endured, particularly when it comes to those young voters because we have to ensure that they are a part of this process.

“Strategies, some attractive mechanism has to be utilised to get more eligible voters out and registered.”

Earlier this week, The Tribune reported that nearly 57,000 people had registered to vote, a figure much lower compared to this same period before the

2012 general election.

Parliamentary Commissioner Sherlyn Hall on Tuesday told The Nassau Guardian that this figure represents 34 per cent of estimated eligible voters as of November 4.

Speaking as a guest on a radio talk show a day later, Mr Hall said his office was troubled by low voter registration numbers to date.

Admitting that he was unable to pinpoint the reasoning behind the occurrence, Mr Hall said his office was working to help as many persons as possible through the process, hoping that the effort could aid registration numbers.

A closer look at the department’s records which were published this week revealed that 77.2 per cent (43,864) of eligible voters in New Providence have

registered; 7,707 (13.6 per cent) in Grand Bahama and 5,225 (9.2 per cent) in the remaining Family Islands.

The 2012 voter registry consisted of 172,000 voters countrywide, 134,000 of whom had registered by this point in 2011.

According to Attorney General Allyson MaynardGibson, Mr Hall has accepted legal advice that will allow Bahamians to use their voter’s cards from a previous election to register to vote for next year’s general election without requiring a passport or a birth certificate unless the commissioner specifically demands that one be produced.

His decision comes as a concern that the process has been too burdensome for some Bahamians.

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Gray fired back at the daily, criticising the paper for its reporting of the matter.

However, in his recent comments he softened his stance, on Wednesday indicating that when he previously stated that the initial story was “utterly false,” he was in fact referring to that story’s headline, which he said Wednesday was “very misleading” because “if you did not read the story, it would be easily concluded that there was a deal or a proposal before the government for its consideration.”

It was at this time Mr Gray told reporters that his initial approval to the ambassador to discuss the proposal had not been re-

scinded, stating: “I have not withdrawn the letter.”

Mr Gray has previously stressed that the controversial proposal was based on ideas from Ambassador Gomez, not Chinese officials. He has also said the matter is not before the government for consideration and that the proposal had not been discussed with Chinese investors.

Mr Gray has maintained that his ministry is operating in the best interest of the country. He has called FNM Leader Dr Hubert Minnis a “hypocrite” for his calls for the government to back away from potential investments from the Chinese.

SEARS USING DELAY TO BOOST LEADERSHIP BID

By SANCHESKA DORSETT Tribune Staff Reporter sdorsett@tribunemedia.net

FORMER Attorney General Alfred Sears said yesterday he is using the Progressive Liberal Party’s decision to delay its convention as an opportunity to raise “much needed funds” for his leadership campaign.

In an interview with The Tribune, Mr Sears said while his crusade has been doing “extremely well” so far, he needs more money to reach stalwarts in the Family Islands.

Mr Sears did not reveal how much money was needed but said: “I’m sure you can imagine, it is not a small amount.”

The PLP’s Fort Charlotte candidate had his first major fund-raiser last night at Jacaranda House.

“I’m going from trip to trip and island to island trying to spread my message,” Mr Sears said. “That costs money. I am asking for support to enable me to go to the Family Islands and meet with stalwarts. The response I have been getting has been excellent, everything is going really well, but I need the support to reach a base not in New Providence.”

The PLP’s National General Council voted last month to postpone the party’s convention until January or February of next year due to the damage several islands sustained in Hurricane Matthew.

A January or February convention would coincide with the time frame in which the PLP is expected to ramp up its campaign for the 2017 general election.

So far, only Mr Sears has announced his intention to challenge Prime Minister Perry Christie for the party’s top post.

The convention will be the first the PLP has held since 2009, although the party’s constitution mandates that such an event be held every year.

After a listening tour in Abaco in September, Mr Sears said he was “more than confident” he will defeat Mr Christie and emerge leader of the PLP. At the time, Mr Sears said that after meeting with stalwarts and branch executives his support has grown exponentially and he has been assured that he will be the next leader of the PLP and the country’s next prime minister.

PAGE 6, Friday, November 11, 2016

THE TRIBUNE

SYMONETTE REFUSES TO CONFIRM ST ANNE’S RUN from page one

Mr Symonette represented St Anne’s during the previous Ingraham administration.

When contacted, Mr Collie said he was refusing to answer any questions focused on Mr Symonette’s future in front line politics with the FNM. Instead, the chairman said the party will ratify three of its remaining six candidates for New Providence next Tuesday. The FNM will then turn its attention to Abaco, Eleuthera and Grand Bahama, with a time-line to complete candidate ratifications by the second week in December.

He said the party is also preparing itself in the event there maybe drastic changes to the constituency numbers when the Constituencies Commission completes its work. It is unclear when the commission will finish.

“We are hearing rumours that the St Cecelia (constituency) is coming back and so is St Thomas More. That Centreville might be split, and also that there might be another seat in Exuma, in

FORMER Deputy Prime Minister Brent Symonette.

Grand Bahama, North Andros and Berry Islands,” Mr Collie told The Tribune.

“There might also be another seat in Long Island.

The Constitution only speaks to a minimum of 38 seats so they are able to add as many seats as they would like.”

Speculation of Mr Symonette’s political future was fuelled this week after party sources told this newspaper that radio talk show host Jeff Lloyd was selected by the party as its standard bearer for the South Beach constituency.

It is said that Mr Lloyd will be ratified next week.

The attorney said last month that he was under “active consideration” but had yet to receive an official offer, although there was speculation that he would run in the St Anne’s seat which had become available after Hubert Chipman, the sitting MP, had withdrawn his name from candidacy amid differences with the FNM’s leadership.

On Wednesday night, according to senior sources in the FNM, the South Beach Constituency Association met FNM Leader Dr Hubert Minnis and were informed of Mr Lloyd’s candidacy.

Man jailed for eight years for sex attack on child in his care from page one abhorrence of this type of behaviour. That sentence must act as a deterrent to the convict specifically and to other persons minded to act in a similar fashion,” the judge said.

Justice Hilton sentenced Bethel to eight years at the Department of Correctional Services. The sentence takes effect from September 30, the date of his conviction.

The jury heard that while the convict’s wife was at

work, Bethel, his daughter and the girl were there at the house.

The girl asked Bethel to connect a DVD player to the television in the living room which he did before he went to take a shower.

However, moments later, he came back wearing only a towel.

Bethel, according to the girl, approached her as she was lying on the couch watching television and said: “Come let me eat this fat ‘crabby’,” using a colloquial term for female genitalia.

Service of Thanksgiving for the Life of

Rev. Winston Nathaniel Duncanson SERVICE HELD AT: HILLSIDE MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH INDEPENDENCE HIGHWAY WEST SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2016 AT 2:00 P.M. OFFICIATING: Rev. Dr. Lockwood K. Deleveaux and Rev. Reginald C. Williams Left to cherish many fond memories are: Charita Duncanson-Miller, Stephanie Seymour, David Duncanson, Tanaz Pikramenos, Gail Coakley, Christina Burrows, Lashon Treco, Charlene Storr, Tiko Rose, Jamal Burrows, D’Angelo Burrows, Garth, Gary, Tiffany and Cecil.

In lieu of flowers we are asking that non-perishable can goods be donated to Hillside Missionary Baptist Church or Carmichael Bible Church (church home of the immediate family).

The jury was told that Bethel proceeded to push his head between the child’s legs, pulled down her shorts and underwear and performed oral sex on her as she unsuccessfully fought him off.

After some minutes, Bethel ejaculated on the couch and demanded the girl to clean it up.

Instead, the girl went into the bedroom where his daughter was asleep to awake her and report what had occurred. The girl also told a neighbour of what had transpired.

Bethel was arrested the following morning.

While an investigation of the matter revealed that the child’s hymen was intact, police did find forensic evidence showing “dried” semen on the couch.

Bethel’s lawyer, Roger Minnis, had asked the court to exercise leniency when imposing a sentence on his client given that the married, father-of-one, had no prior convictions.

He said there were no allegations of continuous

or prior occurrences of sexual abuse or allegations of weapons, instruments of torture or threats of harm used against the victim.

He also stressed to the court that there were no physical injuries to the victim and that his client had, at all times, cooperated with the authorities.

Crown prosecutor Raquel Whyms suggested that the aggravating factors outweighed the mitigating circumstances in the case.

She said there was a prevalence of sexual offences in the Bahamas and that the assault will have long-term effects on the child who experienced the trauma at such a young age.

The prosecutor further stressed that Bethel breached his position of trust as a custodian and had also expressed no remorse for his actions.

In his written ruling yesterday, Justice Hilton noted that the general principles of sentencing, as set out in Halburys Law Vol 11 are

“retribution, deterrence, reformation and reparation.”

“Each case must depend on it’s own circumstances and various factors must be considered by the court in deciding which principle of sentencing should predominate,” the judge said.

“In the Bahamas, the offence of unlawful sexual intercourse with a dependent child carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. This penalty underscores the gravity of the offence as it places this offence in the category of such other offences as murder, manslaughter and armed robbery, which nearly always warrants a custodial sentence. The court also recognises that sentencing for this type of sexual offence involving minors by persons who hold a position of trust has been adjudicated on by our Court of Appeal in the cases of Andrew Birdgewater v Regina 2007 and the Attorney General v Richard Campbell 2004,” the judge added.

The appellate decisions

mandate that the minimum sentence that should be imposed in such cases is seven years.

“In exercising my discretion in sentencing, I must consider those factors which are both mitigating and aggravating about the offence and the offender. In applying the principles of sentencing to the facts of this case and notwithstanding that no weapon or excessive force was used, a sentence is required which is sufficient to express the community’s abhorrence of this type of behaviour. That sentence must act as a deterrent to the convict specifically and to other persons minded to act in a similar fashion,” the judge said.

Justice Hilton determined that eight years was an appropriate sentence.

Bethel has the right to contest the conviction and sentence to the Court of Appeal.

The Crown can challenge the sentence if it desires.

David Cash assisted Ms Whymms in prosecuting the case.

EARLY RETURN TO WORK POSSIBLE AT OCEAN CLUB from page one because hotel officials “are looking at some training period that is going to bring them back to work before that opening.”

Ms Martin also said the union plans to use an “existing fund” through a “partnership with the employer” to provide financial assistance to the hotel’s 350 employees during the five-

month closure.

Her comments came just weeks after angry BHCAWU members threatened to petition for the National Congress of Trade Unions Bahamas (NCTUB) to serve as their interim bargaining agent over their dissatisfaction with their union’s handling of the temporary closure.

At the time, the disgruntled employees claimed that the union had not met with them to provide reassurances, nor offered to provide financial assistance during the five-month closure. Other employees testified about the hardships they were experiencing as a result of the closure, with some claiming they have had difficulty meeting their mortgage payments and honouring other bills.

Yesterday, however, Ms Martin said the BCHAWU’s top brass met with One&Only employees on Wednesday night to clear the air. That meeting, she said, came after the union met with One&Only Ocean Club General Manager John Conway on the hotel’s closure.

“We informed (the members) about what the union intends to do through partnership with the employer, through an existing fund, so we hope that that assistance could get going quickly,” Ms Martin said.

“We did have the meeting with One&Only Ocean Club General Manager John Conway, where we talked about futuristic em-

ployment of the employees, if that was in jeopardy.

“Of course they assured us that there was no plan to do anything as far as reducing numbers or terminating workers, that the closure was merely because of damage they sustained during the hurricane. The employees are expected to be out until the 14th of February, however they are looking at some training period that is going to bring them back to work before that opening.”

Ms Martin said the union also explained to its members why it had not met with them up until Wednesday night. She said that the union doesn’t “like to have meetings to say what we’re going to do, we like to have meetings to say that this is the decision that was made, and this is what is going to happen.”

“Part of our issue is that we should have had a discussion prior to the storm so that we could have been able to lay out what would happen post-Hurricane Matthew, but that not happening has caused I guess a little bit of discomfort with the workers,” she said. “But we were assured that (hotel officials) were going to continue to do everything they can to get the property open on time and that employees that volunteered to work or would like to volunteer to work they can still do that.

“I think they left the meeting feeling a lot better. If you put yourself in their shoes, you don’t know what’s going on, nobody has

said anything to you - no one in this case meaning the union, so they were very apprehensive, they were not unhappy in the beginning.

But by the end of the meeting I think they were satisfied with the answers and waiting for this to actually bear fruit. So I think the meeting was a good meeting.”

She added: “Our members are normally very honest with me. If they’re happy they let me know they’re happy, if they’re not they do that also. So I think they feel a lot better under the circumstances.”

Ms Martin also said notwithstanding previous issues with management at the hotel-- such as employees previously stating they were facing “unrelenting battles” with the hotel’s management staff – relations with hotel officials seem to be getting better.

“We’re getting there,” she said. “Our communications is getting better in light of all that has happened. So I would just say it’s a work in progress.”

Last month, Mr Conway confirmed that the hotel had delayed its reopening date, from December 2016 to February 2017, stating that the hotel is still reeling from the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew.

At the time, management did not specify what will happen to the 350 employees in the meantime, but said they and the union had been informed of the extended period of closure.

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, November 11, 2016, PAGE 7

Jury discharged in murder trial

By LAMECH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter ljohnson@tribunemedia.net A JURY was discharged in a murder trial after the presiding judge in the case received a letter from one of the two accused who de-

sired to be heard on a constitutional motion.

The 12-member panel had been sworn in to hear evidence in the trial of Garth Hall and Orales Gibson concerning the July 2, 2004 shooting death of Jeremy Butterfield.

Butterfield was shot outside of a bar on Bahama Avenue and Market Street.

EMS personnel arrived to take him to hospital but he died of his injuries.

On Wednesday, Senior Justice Stephen Isaacs was presented with a letter on

GAMELI AGBOTUI, 42, of Fire Trail Road, Nassau, is led into court in Freeport on Wednesday.

Photo: Vandyke Hepburn/BIS

AFRICAN MAN ACCUSED IN FORGERY PROBE AN African national was charged with possession of forged instruments in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday.

Gameli Agbotui, of Fire Trail Road, was arraigned in Court Two before Magistrate Charlton Smith, where he pleaded guilty to

behalf of Hall indicating that he wished to be heard on a constitutional motion concerning the 12-year lapse between his arrest and start of trial.

He also wished to address the issue of his fitness to stand trial on the basis that

he was shot 13 times earlier in the year and alleges that the lasting effects are impacting his memory.

Hall requested sufficient time to retain a lawyer to present his arguments to the court in detail.

The judge, as a result, dis-

charged the jury and fixed a date for hearing of the motion to December 13.

During the brief hearing, Hall was represented by Anthony Forbes and Gibson by Terrel Butler. Anthony Delaney and Cephia Pinder-Moss appeared for the Crown.

PORCELAIN 24X24 INCH TILE

the charge and was fined $3,000.

Agbotui was then handed over to immigration authorities.

EARLY CHRISTMAS SAVINGS UNBELIEVABLE PRICES $1.99 PER SQ FT. ONLY WHILST SUPPLIES LAST TEL: 698-1140 or 698-1141

PAGE 8, Friday, November 11, 2016

THE TRIBUNE

Amazing Alfred twists and turns in ever darker shades of Gray H A Comic’s

EY there, friend. Have you ever wanted to see a politician turn into a pretzel?

Well the wait is over!

Coming to the stage is none other than the Amazing Alfred, political contortionist By INIGO ‘NAUGHTY’ ZENICAZELAYA extraordinaire!

Not only can he twist close down the port in Free- second to how “stupid” we his mouth a thousand ways port, they close down all in- look now in admitting how to Tuesday, but Amazing vestments in the Bahamas. hungry we are on Chinese Alfred also has the ability Then what?” investment dollars while to appear almost spineless Good question. still ‘negotiating’ so many as he bows and prostrates Apparently Gray had the current investments. himself while balancing this answer for that one: “How

By V Alfred Gray’s big bucket of yen! stupid will the Bahamian words, we are not coming So, admittedly, I’m not people look as leaders who to the table as equals or inin the best mood. Yes, the allowed or caused that to vited guests; we are coming result of the American happen? Because when you as beggars. And the sad fact elections has a lot of peo- have money you can take it of life is beggars get scraps. ple down but that’s not the anywhere.” He went on in In the third place (alonly reason for my ma- his bootlicking ways to say, though, judging by social laise. In truth, it’s our own “They don’t have to be here, media it is tops on people’s home grown they choose angry list) the minister is crazy that has ‘When Prime to be here so not content to suck up on me wonderthe least we his own but rather admoning what the Minister Christie can do is treat ishes the Bahamian people world is com- finally threw his them well.” for not sucking up, too. ing to.

You can’t make this stuff two cents into this According More than to the Min- up. a week after fishing mess, it was ister, all this When Prime Minister news broke just to say that he genuflecting Christie finally threw his that Minister alone is responsible on our part two cents into this fishing of Agriculture would be nec- mess, it was just to say (in and Marine for Crown land essary in or- the vague way he says eveResources V and his ‘hands’ der for them rything) that he alone is Alfred Gray will decide what to “provide responsible for Crown land authorised opportunity and his “hands” will decide the Bahamian happens to Andros. for us as a what happens to Andros. ambassador Judging by the fact that a Judging by the fact people”. to China to that a deal to give I’ll give you deal to giveaway our birthpursue investa moment to right is still on the table I ments that away our birthright let that ra- guess he’s busy twiddling would essen- is still on the table tionale sink his fingers elsewhere. tially allow in. It actuThe logic in going into I guess he’s busy the Chinese ally took me further dependency with a to ‘fish out’ twiddling his three to wrap foreign nation - any foreign our waters, fingers elsewhere.’ my mind nation - in such a manner he remains around the escapes me. If what V Alas a Cabinet utterly dis- fred Gray says is correct, Minister. And, according to graceful words uttered for we’re already in a serious Gray, the authorisation has all the world (including the hole with China when it not been rescinded.

Chinese) to hear. comes to the port in FreeThe most insulting part Now let’s unpack this box port and several developof the ‘Gray agenda’ is the of cow compost, piece by ments here in Nassau. Why way he has discarded the stinking piece, shall we? keep digging? cries of Bahamians over In the first place, such a And is this what it means this whole scandal. Instead frank admission about the to ‘Believe in Bahamians’? of listening to the people control the Chinese have Outsourcing our future and who gave him his job, Gray over Grand Bahama’s port children’s futures to the instead chose to chastise his in light of the Magic City’s point we go on our knees to fellow citizens. steady tourist dollar decline China to ‘provide opportuAs a guest on a talk radio should shame this and pre- nity for us as a people’? show this week, Va-genius vious governments to their According to Progressive (as he’s known on the streets hollow cores.

Liberal Party (PLP) chair... or something that sounds Second, I have know idea man Bradley Roberts, our strikingly similar) turned how “stupid” the Bahamian country is ‘cash starved’. his high-pitched, scratchy- people will look letting Chi- Basically, we’re broke, VAT voiced wrath on Bahamians nese investment dollars go, money and all. Roberts also by angrily warning, “They but it can only run a close claimed that China and the

View

United Arab Emirates are two of the ‘few places’ we can now access cash. Basically, at our current GDP to debt ratio, we’re down to our proverbial ‘drawers’.

That’s what it’s come to in these last four and a half years of PLP governance for our tiny, fledgling democracy: dependency on a Far East, far-reaching Communist country or a cash-flush Middle Eastern monarchy.

You just can’t make this stuff up.

To be honest, most Bahamians have no major reservations with a competent government making deals.

In the words of the new ‘most powerful man in the free world’ Donald Trump, ‘we just want smart deals.’

MINISTER of Agriculture and Marine Resources V Alfred Gray.

Bigly. And not all our ‘chicken’ eggs in one wicker basket.

In his own defence, Minister Gray tried to deflect by spouting gibberish about the deals the former Free National Movement government had on the table with the Chinese government before they were escorted out of office. Because in Gray’s world it makes sense to say that the PLP is actually doing the exact same nonsense the government we voted out only proposed to do.

Ahh, logic!

I don’t even blame the Chinese at this point. They found a willing PLP government and boy will they ride it. It’s no wonder they are here when they can go ‘anywhere’. After securing the

Freeport Container Port, Baha Mar, The Pointe and apparently all the trees in Andros, why not go fishing?

There sure is a lot of jelly in the backs of Bahamian politicians, so why would our waters be any different?

• Inigo ‘Naughty’ Zenicazelaya is the resident stand-up comic at Jokers Wild Comedy Club at the Atlantis, Paradise Island, resort and presents ‘Mischief and Mayhem in da AM’ from 6am to 10am, Monday to Friday, and ‘The Press Box’ sports talk show on Sunday from 10am to 1pm on KISS FM 96.1. He also writes a sports column in The Tribune on Tuesday. Comments and questions to naughty@ tribunemedia.net

politicians and globally in other countries.

What you’re about to read comes from the ecstatic, professional ‘stand up comedian’ side of me that is over the moon about all the new political and Presidential material that lies ahead over the next four years.

I’ve been doing stand up comedy professionally for the last 19 years and I must admit President-Elect Trump (I DONALD Trump and an Umpa Lumpa, but which is which? can’t believe I just typed that) reminds me of a past regime ‘smack’ about what he tickets to NASCAR, a twoin the US presidency from would do to counteract ISIS year supply of Jack Daniels 2000 to 2008 known as the if he became President dur- and the ‘Best of Lynyrd ing his campaign, Trump Skynyrd’ DVD box set.

Bush administration.

I can envision it now, an Oh what a glorious time. now seems to be skirting armada of ‘pontoon boats’, Comedians world wide around the issue.

May I suggest to ‘el Presi- ‘airboats’ and ‘bass boats’ didn’t have to write a single White House joke! All dente’ an option that will with ‘toothless’ singlet a comedian had to do was save American taxpayers’ wearing captains, filling up turn on CNN during break- money and, more impor- the Persian Gulf screaming fast and ‘whoot, there it is’; tantly, keep the troops at at the top of their blackened, four-packs-a-day home? somebody had All Trump lungs, “Jihad? Wait ‘til done something ‘All Trump needs needs to do is they’ve been Yee-hawed.” gloriously igno- to do is recruit ISIS wouldn’t stand a recruit the mirant overnight, the misogynist, sogynist, rac- chance. Problem solved. in the White ist (in some House, and mi- racist (in some All the President’s mane cases inbred, raculously the cases inbred, Solving Trump’s hair isallegedly), material had allegedly), ‘card carry- sues doesn’t have a quick written itself. ing’ members fix.

The simi- ‘card carrying’ It’s horrible from every of the NRA larities between members of the (National Rifle angle; it looks like two ‘Dubbya’ (forsquirrels quietly copulating Association) mer US Presi- National Rifle that voted for on his head. dent George Association that I must confess with just him and let W Bush) and voted for him them deal with the right amount of Jack ‘Trumpie’ (President-Elect Don- and let them deal ISIS for him. Daniels in my system, ‘spe- his coiff resembles Davy ald Trump) are with ISIS for him.’ These cial’ individu- Crockett’s hat, and it apeerily similar, als will help pears to be alive! and equally huLike Trump, I’m just gomorous to us comedians on to ‘make America great again’ with their efforts, all ing to pretend it looks norso many levels.

So instead of crying in my while bringing a whole new mal and move on. cornflakes like some of my meaning to the term ‘speLiving history fellow Bahamians on Face- cial ops’. Offer an incentive Not many of us get to witbook over the result of the programme, challenge the US elections, I have decid- aforementioned elements of ness history being made in ed to find the dim light in a American society to make our lifetimes. That’s why pending Trump presidency their way to the Middle it’s so important to capture and offer the new Supreme East, and take out anyone these rare moments when Leader of the Galactic Em- looking like ‘sand ninjas’ in they occur.

I, along with millions of pire some help where I can ‘all black erryting’.

Whoever comes back others, were poised waitin the process. with the most ‘ski masks’ ing to witness one of those wins a lifetime member- moments, which we were all Trump’s plans for ISIS After talking lots of ship to the NRA, season denied with Trump’s shock-

ing victory at the polls. I wanted to see the first African American President in the history of the United States, Barack Obama, succeeded by the first female President in the history of the United States, Hillary Clinton. Sadly, it wasn’t meant to be.

Still, in the end, it works out in a sense because I actually witnessed two historical facts with Trump’s win.

First, do you all know that Trump’s victory will mark the first time in American history that a billionaire will move into public housing recently vacated by an African-American family?

Secondly, I may have missed out on seeing the first female President in Hillary Clinton, but I did witness a form of American history being made.

You see, as a nation, the good old US of A had the first ‘white’ President in George Washington, the first ‘black’ President in Barack Obama and now the first ‘orange’ President in Donald Trump!

Let’s face it: he looks like an ‘Umpa Lumpa’ and that probably explains his unexpected mass appeal at the polls. Everybody loves ‘Umpa Lumpas’. Obviously ‘Trumpie’ is the chubby, fluffy one who made it out of Willie Wonka’s Chocolate factory, ‘Golden Ticket’ in hand!

Anyway, I’m off. President-Elect Trump will hold a press conference shortly (more material for my act) and I need to bend the elbow with Jack Daniels a few times beforehand. (All in the name of research, of course).

Until next week I will leave you with the words of Thomas Jefferson: “Do you want to know who you are?

Don’t ask, act!

Action will delineate and define you.”

Trump’s win is the golden ticket for we comedians

WHAT you’ve read above comes from the husband, father, friend and professional in me, who is

worried sick about future decisions and subsequent ramifications of those decisions, made locally by our

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, November 11, 2016, PAGE 9

RELIEF FUND LAUNCHED TO COVER HURRICANE REPAIR COSTS THE Anglican Central Education Authority (ACEA) has launched “Together We Make the Difference”, a relief fund to help cover the cost of repairs, replacement of lost school supplies and ensuring minimal interruptions during the academic year after the damage from Hurricane Matthew last month. It aims to raise $50,000 by the end of the year.

The ACEA schools, in-

cluding St John’s College, St Anne’s School, Bishop Michael Eldon School and St Andrew’s Anglican School, were not left unscathed by Matthew, sustaining property damage and loss of equipment and supplies.

Despite the challenges, all of the ACEA schools reopened by October 17 - 11 days after the category storm had passed - and the organisation says it remains committed to “keeping our

doors open and providing the best education in safe, well-resourced environments for our students”.

At St John’s College, gutters, drains and ceiling tiles need to be replaced. Most primary school classrooms sustained water damage, and work has already begun toward restoration. The roof of a sixth grade classroom and a broken water line have been repaired, but roof damage caused by a fallen tree needs

to be addressed urgently.

St Anne’s School needs a new perimeter fence and roof repairs in several areas, including the science laboratory. Repairs are ongoing on Bishop Michael Eldon School, Freeport, which needs 400 bundles of shingles to complete roof work. To continue operating the primary department office, a generator needs to be purchased. Minor repairs are needed at St

Andrew’s Anglian School, where there are leaks in the administration block and some classrooms.

To facilitate this hurricane relief campaign, the ACEA has introduced Plug’n Pay, a feature on its website www.aceaschools.org which makes it easy for the public to contribute to hurricane relief efforts. Donors have the option to direct their contributions to the school of their choice, or simply contribute

to the hurricane relief fund.

“We encourage parents, alumni and the general public to invest our children’s education by supporting the ACEA in rebuilding our schools,” the ACEA said. The organisation said donations can be made through the website using a credit card, via a cheque to the Anglican Diocese office in Addington House, East Street and Sands Road, or by mail to PO Box N 656.

Warm welcome for WISTA

THERE wa a warm welcome for the first Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) with “A Taste of Bahamas” welcome reception and junkanoo rush-out in Pompey Square yesterday, as the group visits the island.

Photos: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff

CITATION AWARD GIVEN TO ‘SHINING EXAMPLE’ HAZLEWOOD FREDERICK A Hazlewood, President of the John Bull Group of Companies, has received an Endowment Citation Award presented

by Christ Church Cathedral for being “a shining example” in helping to contribute to improving Bahamian life over many years.

The presentation was made at a Thanksgiving Service on October 30.

The award comes after a charge given by the Lord Bishop Rt Rev’d Laish Z Boyd at the start of the first Cathedral and Nassau City Week to make Nassau and

the Bahamas a better place in accordance with people’s talents and abilities. “You know what our talents are,” he said. “Get out there and make things happen.” Mr Hazlewood accepted the charge, which happened to be a personal conviction for many decades.

Mr Hazlewood and the other remarkable individuals honoured have been making things happen in their city and country for quite some time, some for over 50 years. The diverse group included physicians, attorneys, travel organisa-

tions, hotels, the Historical Society and family-owned businesses like A Baker and Sons. Cathedral Endowment Trustee member Dr Harold Munnings said that the honorees shared a few things in common: their location within the precincts of the original City of Nassau and a longstanding positive contribution to the civic life of the City of Nassau. “Exactly 155 years ago, this City, where our honorees made their mark, was founded here at Christ Church Cathedral,” Dr Munnings said.

During the award presentation to Mr Hazlewood, Dr Munnings said: “The Trustees of the Cathedral Endowment hold you up as a shining example of what can happen when you take specific personal abilities, throw them in a love of your community and add a dash of vision. For what you have done for your own family, for our city and for our country, there could be no better time than now and no better place than here, to say thank you and well done.”

Mr Hazlewood said he

was humbled to accept the award on behalf of his family and many colleagues at the John Bull Group and was deeply touched to be recognised by Christ Church Cathedral. “I am extremely humbled that I along with John Bull would be recognised in this way,” he said. “In addition to our numerous contributions to the City we are also proud to state that 99 per cent of our John Bull team members are Bahamian. This has been one of my main goals as the company’s president.”

FREDERICK HAZLEWOOD

READERS GIVE THEIR VIEWS ON EFFECTS OF TRUMP PRESIDENCY In The Tribune’s latest Big Question, we asked readers what they thought a Donald Trump presidency would mean for The Bahamas.

ThisIsOurs said: “I think I’ve heard the ridiculous comment that Republicans are better for The Bahamas than Democrats just one too many times. I often wonder where these people get their info, it’s as if they’ve forgotten Carlos Lehder, Pindling, nation for sale, black listing, Shane Gibson, contracts for sale, illegal gaming, What’sLeft-of-Nation-on-FireSale, nolle, Alfred Gray and

Perry Christie, those things have been worse for the Bahamas than any US president.”

Well_mudda_take_sic had this to say: “I suspect Trump has already received several tweets from Bahamians informing him that Red China is in the process of establishing a strategic

foothold in The Bahamas, right on the very doorstep of the US.” There was this from ScullyUFO: “One thing it definitely means is that there will finally be a US Ambassador to The Bahamas appointed.

Of course it will be a person relevant to Republican and rich, white man interests.

“Another possibility is that US pre-clearance in The Bahamas may be withdrawn as part of Trump’s isolationism under the guise of saving money (ie no need to pay all of those customs officers). That action could not possibly be beneficial to

The Bahamas.”

After PLP veterans Leslie Miller and Philip Galanis said Donald’s Trump’s victory could be a warning sign for their party, Honestman said: “There is a worldwide movement of people taking back control of their destiny from the elitist establishment.

“The UK has shown the way with BREXIT and Trump has followed up in the USA. Next year there is a good chance that France will start the process of exiting the European Union when the right wing Marine Le Pen gains control of their

Parliament. People are sick and tired of not having their voices heard.

“It is the same in The Bahamas where the corrupt and calamitous PLP has trodden roughshod over the interests and wishes of the Bahamian people these last four and a half years. So how will Bahamians respond? I have no doubt that only the delusional and brainwashed PLP diehards and those in the PLP inner circle will vote for the status quo.

“Everyone else is desperate to ‘stick it’ to the party and consign them to the annals of history never to

return. But who to trust the protest vote to? This is the dilemma. All honest Bahamians are desperate for change but too many see the FNM under Hubert Minnis as just another part of the political elite. McCartney and the DNA don’t seem to have enough momentum or profile to challenge in their own right. In my view, therefore, there needs to be an electoral pact between the FNM and the DNA in order to remove the PLP.” • Don’t miss your chance to join the debate on tribune242.com.

PAGE 10, Friday, November 11, 2016

THE TRIBUNE

A serious checklist of gubment’s mismanagement

Your Say

By PAMELA BURNSIDE

T

HERE is so much confusion going on in our country, it is overwhelming. Once again we have indeed become a “nation for sale”.

It is truly a frightening state of affairs when each day brings to light another confusing debacle being perpetuated by “gubment’s” total mismanagement of the country’s affairs and purse.

The following is a list of some of the many serious issues that now face the Bahamian people: 1) Protection of Bahamian sovereignty: examples abound showing how the “gubment” is being dazzled and hypnotised by the dangling of monies before their myopic eyes. How much more of our Bahamian soul are they prepared to barter for pieces of silver? The recent debacle concerning Andros is a glaring example of the direct abuse to our sovereignty. a) Giving permission to initiate dialogue with the Chinese to hand over control of our main fishing, food, water, and landmass belts in Andros, and stating that it is a “good idea” because “Bahamians seem to lack interest in agriculture”? Seriously Minister?

Just how deeply are you entrenched down in your rabbit hole of illusionary reality? b) Seriously, Mr Bahamian Ambassador to China, have you paused to consider the ramifications your suggestion poses for your/our country, your/our children and your/our children’s children? c) Then again, if your

PRIME Minister Perry Christie during a tour of Baha Mar. plan to showcase Bahamian culture for the upcoming China/Bahamas Accord celebrations by transporting Junkanoo Carnival across the waters to China

on the public’s dime is any indication, then we can bemoan yet another example of a skewed view which will work to our detriment. d) China has billions of

people to feed and they have demonstrated over and over again their disregard for environmental sustainability by their overfishing disasters all around the world.

Our waters are some of the last in the world teeming with resources which we must protect fiercely and without compromise.

2) Measure twice, cut once: translates into proper planning to introduce a new system for car licensing so that it is implemented without all the ridiculous confusion that is still continuing days on end. Seriously, Minister? You will go on the public airwaves and admit that the debacle is “unacceptable” when it is actually your purview - the buck stops with you. Get it right! a) The new system is operating in tandem with the former licensing process and products which is still operational. Is this an extended period of inefficiency in order to further accommodate the ‘tiefing’ experts in the civil service? b) No licence plates?

Many persons might not remember that the prison used to make the licence plates in the first beginning ... so why was it taken from them and given to another ministry who “messed up”?

But wait, it is now being parcelled out to a foreign entity to fill in the gap until it can be sent back to the prison! Say what? c) Signs and help? Not anywhere, and not a soul knows naught, who cares if people suffer so - tough luck, it is your lot! d) Three forms of identification needed “to minimise fraud” versus the tens of millions of dollars that went missing from Road Traffic (and other ministries) - say what? e) Four trips needed to licence your car or get a driver’s licence renewed, standing on different lines for hours, come back to collect this and that …. reality check. People have to take time off from their paying jobs because of “gubment” inefficiency and more than likely are getting their meagre paychecks cut because of it, whilst civil servants are getting paid regardless. f) Special police scanners are apparently needed for retrieving information from the new licence decals, but they are not on the island yet - say what?

3) Fiscal responsibility: the newspapers are only reporting more and more “gubment” borrowing:

a) For hurricane relief and restoration (no contingency funds put aside or action plan developed following Joaquin a year ago); b) Millions more for waterworks (say what? ... since the “gubment” received a huge US$28.5m loan from the Caribbean Development Bank loan this year for a Water Improvement Project); c) New Urban Renewal offices (say what?… and immediately after the PAC report has just been released outlining multiple disappearing money/tiefing debacles?); d) The gubment dem have made no announcements of any cutbacks in spending; e) Why hasn’t National Health Insurance been postponed? f) Gubment trips abroad continue, including a recent sizeable contingent to a Buddy Hield game; g) Soon time for the next credit rating visit and trying to blame Matthew for that too isn’t going to fly.

4) University of The Bahamas: Charter day approaches with a big time, spanking new expensive entrance. But the old building is dropping down, the classrooms are a shambles with broken chairs and desks and supplies for the students are lacking. Nevertheless, millions will be allocated for a “new brand” student dorm for thousands of students (coming from where exactly?), just like the ones involved in the ridiculous BAMSI debacle; 5) Hurricane preparedness: a) The radar saga from year to year … it took Matthew to blow the Met officers out of the building first, and then another employee to be carried away on a stretcher after hurting his leg in the dilapidated building to get the commitment to purchase the proper system; b) BPL: advance warning that the hurricane coming for sure, sure from down south way and you know you lack necessary equipment for recovery (bucket trucks, diggers, etc) which you have at your affiliate company in the north, but you wait instead until the hurricane come and gone, and done destroy everything before you actually send for the trucks and stuff, and forget to call all hands on deck to effect restoration - resulting in your customers having to wait

and suffer for days and weeks for relief; c) PMH maternity ward renovation: right back where you started - the doctors asked repeatedly for this to be delayed. Well, Matthew took care of that with some additional extras thrown in ... more money to be spent to come from where again?

6) Voter registration: after the unprecedented ‘wraparoundem’ confusion when the gubment’s chairman brazenly announced the results over the airwaves and Mr Parliamentary Commissioner’s voice was nowhere to be heard, maybe the public have cause to be wary of the security and efficacy of the voting system.

7) BAMSI: First graduation apparently completed so: a) How many more students enrolled to justify the building of the two dorms, and the rebuilding of the one that was burned down? b) Who is paying for the rebuilding of the dorm anyway, and how much more will it cost, and are there enough students to warrant it? c) How much produce has actually been produced and shipped to the islands, and why isn’t the price of BAMSI bananas cheaper in the stores than the imports? d) An agreement has already been signed with the Chinese to assist with agricultural and aquaponics (fish farming) programmes at BAMSI. How are those terms being reconciled in light of the recent scandalous Andros proposal?

8) Baha Mar secrecy: just like the potcake song, you only know Bahamian sovereignty when you need it.

Court sealed documents are oddly expedient as they make it impossible for we, the people, to know who owns ‘Perfect Luck’ - a company formed, strangely enough, when Sarkis Izmirlian was going under, and Bahamian officials were jetting back and forth to China on a regular basis (does that give one pause?).

Meanwhile, another contender from the east is the one making statements in the press, flinging authority and the mention of money here and there, whilst “gubment” salivates. a) Promises for a Baha Mar opening in early 2017 is conveniently scheduled just in time for when the general election is to be called - go figure! b) Oh happy, happy day when Bahamians creditors are being paid by a ‘benevolent’ Bank? Say what?

People beware - nothing is given freely and lightly.

We have no idea what farreaching conditions have been attached to this part of the deal. c) China does not plan strategy for short-term gain.

They are laughing at the gubment’s graviliciousness whilst they set up their legacy for their children and their children’s children for decades into the future.

Meanwhile, our children’s futures are being destroyed big time by the gullibility of our so-called leaders.

9) “Gubment” Convention: cancelled because of hurricane restoration in spite of the fact that we have been chosen to become the first “smart” small island developing state (remember that press release earlier this year?) and Skype is still alive and well. The convention could have been “beamed” throughout the islands if they were really serious about having it … but blame Matthew once again and issue a sigh of relief for effectively scuttling any threat of Alfred Sears vying for the leader’s seat.

Our country is in crisis and “gubment” is living a lie. It is mind boggling and sickening to see that it is all a superficial sham of confusion to try and fool the people, and hide the problems bubbling beneath the surface. We cannot and must not be fooled, Bahamas speak up, and save our precious nation!

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, November 11, 2016, PAGE 11

Trump calls protests ‘unfair’ NEW YORK Associated Press

DEMONSTRATORS in both red and blue states hit the streets for another day Thursday to express their outrage over Donald Trump’s unexpected win, while the president-elect sniped back in a Twitter post.

Vocal demonstrations occurred from New York to Los Angeles and each typically drew a few hundred people, fewer than the thousands that gathered in various protests that surged after it became clear Trump had won Tuesday’s election.

Late Thursday night, Trump went on Twitter to take on the protesters.

Trump tweets: “Just had a very open and successful presidential election. Now professional protesters, incited by the media, are protesting. Very unfair!”

High-spirited high school students marched through San Francisco’s downtown, chanting “not my president” and holding signs urging a Donald Trump eviction.

They waved rainbow banners and Mexican flags, as bystanders in the heavily Democratic city high-fived the marchers from the sidelines.

“As a white, queer person, we need unity with people of color, we need to stand up,” said Claire Bye, a 15-year-old sophomore at Academy High School.

“I’m fighting for my rights as an LGBTQ person. I’m

fighting for the rights of brown people, black people, Muslim people.”

In New York City, a large group of demonstrators once again gathered outside Trump Tower on Fifth Avenue Thursday night. They chanted angry slogans and waved banners baring antiTrump messages.

“You got everything straight up and down the line,” demonstrator David Thomas said. “You got climate change, you got the Iran deal. You got gay rights, you got mass deportations. Just everything, straight up and down the line, the guy is wrong on every issue.”

Protesters briefly shut down interstate highways in Minneapolis and Portland, Oregon. In Philadelphia, protesters near City Hall held signs bearing slogans like “Not Our President,” ‘’Trans Against Trump” and “Make America Safe For All.” About 500 people turned out at a protest in Louisville, Kentucky and in Baltimore, hundreds of people marched to the stadium where the Ravens were playing a football game.

No arrests or violence were reported.

Another protest was building in Los Angeles, where 28 people were arrested Wednesday for blocking traffic during a demonstration that also saw vandalism to some buildings and a news truck.

Los Angeles Mayor Eric

PROTESTS against Donald Trump yesterday in Maryland, above, and San Francisco.

Garcetti, a Democrat, condemned what he called a “very, very small group of people” that caused problems in that demonstration but said he was proud of the thousands more that peacefully protested.

“I actually thought it was a beautiful expression of democracy. I think it was a marvelous thing to see the next generation of this country get engaged and involved,” he said at a news conference, adding that at one time in his life he might have joined them.

As expected, the demonstrations prompted some social media blowback from Trump supporters accusing protesters of sour grapes or worse.

Trump supporters said the protesters were not respecting the democratic process.

As of Thursday, Democrat Hillary Clinton was leading Trump in votes nationwide 47.7 percent to 47.5 percent, but Trump secured victory in the Electoral College.

There didn’t appear to be any groundswell of counterdemonstrations.

PAGE 12, Friday, November 11, 2016

LOVE SOARS

THE TRIBUNE

STAFF at Queen’s College gather to remember teacher Joyelle McIntosh yesterday, who was murdered a year ago.

Photos: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff

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November 16, 2016

Customer Appreciation Day

QUEEN’s College principal Andrea Gibson lays a wreath in remembrance of teacher Joyelle McIntosh.

QUEEN’S COLLEGE PAYS TRIBUTE TO TEACHER A YEAR ON FROM MURDER

MOURNERS pay their respects a year on from the murder of Joyelle McIntosh.

Your Full Service Bahamian Travel Agency.

T: 328-0257 or 328-0264 info@premiertravel-bahamas.com DR. REGINALD ELDON, dean of the QC Centre for Further Education, pays tribute.

THE TRAFFIC light on Village Road where Joyelle McIntosh was murdered.