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The Tribune Established 1903
Volume:117 No.248, NOVEMBER 20TH, 2020
Weekend
WEEKEND: BREAKING FREE FROM LOCKDOWNS WITH ART
THE PEOPLE’S PAPER: $1
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Friday, November 20, 2020 photography beverages art gardening history enterta inment puzzles
LIGHTHOUSES OF THE BAHAMAS Pages 10 + 11
Breaking free
Turnquest denies conspiracy claim
‘Conspirators took me for $27m with bogus loans’ Fred Kaiser
‘I’m appalled my name has been dragged into this’
Escape from screens and turn to
THE deputy prime minister last night branded claims that he “conspired” to defraud Sky Bahamas’ financier of almost $27m via sham loans as “categorically false”. K Peter Turnquest hit back at allegations levied by two companies controlled by Fred Kaiser, a Canadian businessman with whom he previously enjoyed a long and close relationship, by saying he was “appalled” his name
had been dragged into a dispute with another “former business partner”. That business partner is Captain Randy Butler, chief executive of Sky Bahamas, which was forced to cease flying last year after the Bahamas Civil Aviation Authority refused to renew the air operator certificate that was required to carry feepaying passengers. Mr Turnquest, though, noted that he is not named as a defendant in Mr Kaiser’s statement of claim - only Captain Butler.
pgs 08 + 09
‘I never had access to Kaiser money, I wasn’t the money man’
Deputy Prime Minister Peter Turnquest By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net
art
Captain Randy Butler Implying that the dispute has nothing to do with him, Mr Turnquest said: “The Writ does not name me as a defendant but makes several allegations in its statement of claim that are categorically false. “I deny these false claims. I am appalled that my standing as a public servant made calling my name in this dispute between my former business partners worthwhile. There is no room for that kind of misuse of our SEE PAGE THREE
Nassau & Bahama Islands’ Leading Newspaper
VIDEO NOT ONLY THING GOING VIRAL AT CHARMS
SEE PAGE EIGHT
PAGE 2, Friday, November 20, 2020
THE TRIBUNE
GOING, GOING...
THE DEMOLITION of the General Post Office in East Hill Street begins yesterday. By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net DEMOLITION of the General Post Office at East Hill Street began yesterday as part of efforts to modernise the downtown area. The former Post Office is scheduled to be replaced with a new Central Bank
of The Bahamas (CBOB) building. The move follows similar works being done at the Nassau Cruise Port, with demolition of the former Bahamas Customs Warehouse and Festival Place almost complete. Officials have already said construction on the Nassau port will begin at
the end of this month. Managing director of Downtown Nassau’s partnership, Ed Fields yesterday described the Post Office’s demolition as being monumental for the downtown area, adding it was exciting to see that works were finally underway. “The transformation is
Photo: Donovan McIntosh commencing. I think it’s just very, very exciting to see that the work is underway. I mean, you can tell from other demolitions like the Clarence Bain building and the port building,” he said. “You can see the US embassy is under full swing and again, this has nothing to do with us although we’re all working together
to deal with certain things... but we’re very excited.” He added that officials are hopeful the new redevelopments will have a positive impact on the small business community downtown. “When you look at the port, the demolition of the Post Office building and the Central Bank to come,
it’s major works being done for downtown and it can only have a positive impact on the smaller businesses going forward.” “This is monumental stuff to see this level of transformation. We’ve been crying out for many, many years to revitalise downtown and this is the earnest commencement of that.”
Save The Bays: Oil director Smith is ‘shockingly uninformed’ ENVIRONMENTALISTS criticised Bahamas Petroleum Company director James Smith yesterday, saying he seems “shockingly uninformed” about oil issues. Mr Smith, a former finance minister and governor of the Central Bank, said it was preposterous that activists are seeking to block the country from discovering if it has natural resources. In response, Joseph Darville, chairman of Save The Bays, said his arguments are ridiculous. “There are so many things wrong with the recent published statements by James Smith regarding oil exploration that it is difficult to know where to begin,” he said in a statement yesterday. “I will not say he is being disingenuous or intentionally misleading, but as a director of a company proposing to undertake the extremely dangerous action of drilling into our sea-floor in search of oil, he does seem to be shockingly uninformed. Mr Smith argued that with tourism collapsing because of the COVID-19 crisis, the country would do well to proceed with exploratory well drilling. He also questioned why activists are targeting BPC’s endeavour and not other oil-related projects in the country. Mr Darville said in response: “Smith uses the trick of choice for Bahamas Petroleum Company directors nowadays: Why complain about drilling, when there are other oilrelated activities taking place in the country?
“While Save The Bays certainly opposes the transportation of petrochemicals through our waters, the argument that since we already face some level of danger, we might as well go ahead and increase it exponentially, is ridiculous on the face of it. “Furthermore, Smith is drawing a false equivalence, comparing apples and oranges, as the level of danger in what BPC is proposing utterly dwarfs any tanker accident imaginable.” “The 2010 Deepwater Horizon disaster spewed around 200 million gallons of oil into the Gulf of Mexico. The vast majority of tankers in operation today carry between 15 and 25 million gallons at full capacity. This means that, at minimum, eight to thirteen of these massive vessels would have to suffer a catastrophic accident and spew their entire contents into the sea – all at the same time – in order to replicate the impact of a major spill from an offshore drill site. “Smith’s suggestion that these tankers present a greater spill risk is misleading in the extreme. It is just downright wrong. The Deepwater Horizon drilling disaster led to a massive stretch of ocean (15,300 sq. miles) – an area nearly three times the size of the entire The Bahamas (5,358 sq. miles) – being covered by toxic chemical sludge. The worst possible tanker disaster would not even come close. All spills are very bad, but not all spills are equal! “Perhaps most frightening is Smith’s suggestion that we shouldn’t worry
about the drill project, as it is nothing more than an exploratory well. Can this BPC director really not be aware that the Deepwater Horizon disaster was also ‘just’ an exploratory well? Can he not know that exploratory wells are among the most dangerous of all the petrochemical disasters waiting to happen? “The truth is that there is no such thing as safe oil drilling and we have too much to lose in this country to bet everything on a roll of the dice. Our economy is totally dependent upon industries derived from the beauty and abundance of our fragile marine environment. “Nothing about the BPC deal suggests that it will even come close to providing us with an alternative – certainly not with oil prices crashing and the world moving further away from fossil fuels by the day. Certainly not in a country that is among the most vulnerable on the planet to the ravages of climate change, which the oil industry is largely responsible for. “I would ask James Smith to seek to educate himself more thoroughly on the industry which he has chosen to champion before offering further public remarks on an issue that could ruin countless Bahamian lives. And, I would ask him to speak next time as a Bahamian first, and a shareholder in a foreign forprofit oil company second.” Last week newly-elected American President Joe Biden said that the “oil industry pollutes significantly. It has to be replaced by renewable energy over time.”
THE TRIBUNE
Friday, November 20, 2020, PAGE 3
Turnquest denies conspiracy claim from page one judicial system in our society. I am confident that the facts will defend my integrity once presented. “My record of transparency and accountability in my private and public life is a matter of record and reputation. My focus remains on further deepening our democracy by enacting legislation to reform and modernise the management of our economy and public finances as we work through this very challenging period in our country.” It is unclear why the action brought by Mr Kaiser’s companies, Alpha Aviation and Advanced Aviation, does not also include Mr Turnquest as a defendant given that it calls the deputy prime minister’s name repeatedly. It also notes that he acted as “a director and manager” of both entities, as well as “owning and/or controlling and/or managing the two companies listed as defendants, Sky Bahamas Airlines and Aviation Oversight Group. The latter is understood to be a Sky Bahamas affiliate. Mr Kaiser, whose main business interest, Alpha Technologies, agreed in 2004 to pay some $36m to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) after pleading guilty to tax fraud, is alleging that Captain Butler and Mr Turnquest engineered a decade-long conspiracy that lasted until 2017 “to enrich themselves” by defrauding his companies while concealing their activities. The statement of claim, which has been seen by Tribune Business, claimed that the duo “dishonestly caused” Alpha Aviation and Advanced Aviation to “pay away” $20.68m and $5.917m, respectively, to Sky Bahamas via “some kind of bogus loans”. No particulars were given to describe how the scheme worked, although Mr
Kaiser’s companies alleged that Mr Turnquest and Captain Butler then used “some 39 fraudulent invoices and/ or book entries, and for no adequate consideration”, to drain away some $3.8m paid by Alpha Aviation to Aviation Oversight Group via 39 separate cheque payments between February 2008 and July 2016. A further $3.026m was also alleged to have been siphoned off by the duo “as at December 31, 2017, to AOG Maintenance Ltd, a company that owned Sky Bahamas’ maintenance hangar at Lynden Pindling International Airport. “In breach of their duties of honesty and fidelity as directors and/or managers of both the plaintiffs (Alpha Aviation and Advanced Aviation) and of the second and third defendants (Sky Bahamas and Aviation Oversight Group), and their duties to act in the best interests of the companies, Turnquest and Butler failed to keep or to ensure that the companies kept any, or any adequate, financial books of account or financial records recording and/or documenting the companies’ financial transactions, failed to maintain or keep any proper or any proper management accounts or bank or cheque or wire transfer reconciliations and failed to put in place any or any adequate financial controls or systems,” the statement of claim by Mr Kaiser’s company alleged. Further claiming that “none of the payments were documented properly, or at all”, the statement of claim alleged: “At all material times, Butler knew or must have known that the receipt by Sky Bahamas and Aviation Oversight from Alpha and Advanced were paid away by Turnquest in breach of his fiduciary duties and dishonestly, and were received by Sky Bahamas and Aviation Oversight... on behalf of
DEPUTY Prime Minister Peter Turnquest alongside Sky Bahamas chief executive Captain Randy Butler. Alpha and Advanced and There was no sign of chief questioned whether ran the airline’s operations held by them on resulting any such moves last night, there was an effort “to and left the finances to Mr trust for the plaintiff.” though, as Mr Turnquest protect” the deputy prime Turnquest before the latter Kaiser and his compa- effectively sought to dis- minister by not naming him left for government. nies, making it clear that associate himself from as a defendant. “I had nothing to do they have come for the a dispute that he sought “Don’t forget I am not with money and that kind monies they believe are due to pin on Captain Butler his director of finance,” of stuff; the accounts and and owing, are seeking a and Mr Kaiser. This news- Captain Butler said in ref- all that. I didn’t have anySupreme Court Order that paper understands that erence to Mr Kaiser. “I thing to do with that. They an accounting be done to senior members of the Free don’t have any access to his go in every paragraph to determine what is outstand- National Movement (FNM) money; never did. I think the money man, and say I ing and that this money were briefed that the law- you could see whose name should know. How do you subsequently be paid to suit was imminent some he called in all those places. make allegations against them. weeks before it was filed. He’s naming the of two of him [Mr Turnquest] and Several observers yesterHowever, Captain his companies who was his protect him at the same day privately told Tribune Butler, when contacted accountant, director and time? Fred has put out Business they thought the by The Tribune yester- managing director.” there death by 1,000 pieces nature of the allegations, day, pointed the finger of He acknowledged that for me.” consisting of financial irreg- blame at Mr Turnquest it may look odd, when Legal sources suggested ularities and accounting and denied any knowledge pressed by The Tribune, that Captain Butler and his improprieties, would make of the latter’s financial that as a shareholder and attorneys will likely apply it difficult for Mr Turnquest dealings with Mr Kaiser. chief executive he “knew to the Supreme Court to to remain in his post as min- While he “absolutely, cat- nothing” about Sky Baha- add Mr Turnquest as a ister of finance - effectively egorically” denied the mas’ finances, but said he third-party defendant, but the nation’s chief financial allegations against himself, had always insisted he was the Sky Bahamas chief did officer. the former Sky Bahamas the “technical guy” who not confirm that yesterday.
‘EXTENDING POWERS IS RIGHT’
By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net
SUPER Value owner Rupert Roberts yesterday voiced his support for the government’s intention to extend the country’s Emergency Powers Orders to December 28. “There’s things (the government) may have to do. This is the most serious thing that’s ever happened to this country and the world and our leaders have to do whatever they do to protect us,” said Mr Roberts. “I really don’t’ have a problem with that if it’s a selection for the country’s representatives making the decision,” he told The Tribune. However, he said, he will not support another full lockdown should the government take that course of action again. “I do disagree with the lockdowns,” he said. “While employees are at work with their employers, their employers are keeping them safe, making them wear masks and disinfecting hands, doing social distancing so they have to work, they work their 45 or 48 hours a week. “They’re not catching it in the supermarkets. They’re getting it socially, so when they’re with us we keep them safe and when they go home we have to take care of their daily works and so on and between work and their responsibilities, that wears them out and they have to go to bed.” He added: “But when you lockdown, then that extra time they get, they say ‘oh, good times roll’, they go clubbing and gathering and I think this is where the spread is coming from, so lockdowns are doing
the opposite of what they think. I know lockdowns are spreading it. Lockdowns are not flattening the curve, they spread it.” Lockdowns have often been used by the Minnis administration amid the COVID-19 pandemic as a tool to curb community spread, with health officials insisting the measures as being effective. The COVID-19 Emergency Powers Orders, which gives Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis - the Competent Authority - sweeping powers during the state of emergency like the ability to impose a lockdown, ends on November 30. However, on Wednesday, Dr Minnis gave notice in the House of Assembly of his intention to extend the country’s state of emergency until December 28. The move came as a surprise as many expected the orders to end this month, especially after Dr Minnis said last month the discontinuation of COVID-19 Emergency Powers Orders would depend on an improvement of virusrelated cases. While several Family Islands have recently seen a spike of new infections, the COVID-19 situation on New Providence and Abaco has significantly improved. On Wednesday, the Ministry of Health reported 25 new COVID-19 cases, with nine on New Providence, ten on Grand Bahama, three on Abaco, two on Berry Islands and one in Bimini. The new tally pushes the country’s total to 7,348. The decline in COVID19 cases, particularly in New Providence, has led some observers to believe that there is no need to extend the emergency orders.
SIR RANDOL FAWKES IS NAMED A NATIONAL HERO By TANYA SMITH-CARTWRIGHT tsmith-cartwright@tribunemedia.net
SIR Randol Fawkes, the father of labour, was posthumously named a National Hero in the 2020 National Honours. During a brief ceremony yesterday at Government House, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis thanked honourees for their contribution to Bahamian society. The ceremony, which was originally to take place last month, saw many, arguably, deserving Bahamians honoured for their toils and selfless work. Joining Sir Randol in posthumous honours was the Hon Paul Adderley and Sir Alvin Braynen. “We are most fortunate that Sir Randol, Paul Adderley, Sir Alvin Braynen and J Henry Bostwick helped to secure democracy and the rule of law in our Bahamas,” Prime Minister Minnis said. “Our greatest tribute to them is to follow their example in this and successive generations by safeguarding and upholding democratic values and norms. “Today, we honour, posthumously, as Companions of the Order of the Bahamas, Hon Paul Adderley and Sir Alvin Braynen. We also honour, the Hon John Henry Bostwick, QC, who is still happily with us. Like Sir Randol, Messrs Adderley, Braynen and Bostwick lent their considerable talents, patriotic vigour and lifeblood to the liberation and development of the Bahamian people.” Recognising we are not living in “ordinary times”, Prime Minister Minnis mentioned the toll COVID19 has taken on the world. “We find ourselves in an
unprecedented time in the contemporary Bahamas,” he said. “The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in the deaths or ill-health of millions around the world, including the deaths and infection of a number of our fellow citizens. The pandemic has caused unprecedented economic and social distress and dislocation. “Yet, in the midst of the pandemic, it is good that we are here today to acknowledge and to celebrate noteworthy Bahamians who have given exceptional service and contributed significantly to national development. Because of the pandemic, today’s ceremony is necessarily brief and considerably smaller, with various health measures utilized to safeguard attendees.” The Prime Minister quoted the Father of Labour as saying the following: “Once I had found my people, I could have no peace of mind until I had become a part of their struggle and transmitted their heritage to future generations.” He said Sir Randol’s words represent the courage and dedication to the country of the other men and women honoured at the ceremony. “Each, in his own way, was involved in the political and social struggle for equality and the advancement of a sovereign and free people,” the Prime Minister said continuing, “they were among that generation of Bahamians who gave fully of themselves in the promotion of the dignity of all Bahamians, regardless of creed or circumstance of birth. “They did not simply debate the big questions of the day from the sidelines. They were not armchair critics who refused the call of history
to make a difference and to make a vital contribution. All of these men read history and made history. These fine Bahamians entered the arena and helped to entrench a vibrant parliamentary democracy and two-party system, which are among the pillars of our democratic heritage.” He noted that as political leaders, parliamentarians, attorneys and Bahamian citizens, they recognised that the rule of law is at the heart of a vibrant democracy that protects the rights of all. Justice Claire Hepburn, Justice Jeanne Thompson and Justice Rhonda Bain were also honoured as members of the Order of The Bahamas. “We honour them as jurists and as women of integrity,” the prime minister said. “We also honour them for their varied contributions to national life. Not so long ago, indeed during many of our lifetimes, there were few Bahamians as judges of the Supreme Court. Few women served as Supreme Court Justices. “It is worth celebrating and noteworthy that the Hon. Justices Hepburn, Thompson and Bain exemplify the quality of Bahamian jurists who have populated the Courts in an independent Bahamas.” His Excellency Frank Crothers was awarded the Order of Excellence; Dr. David Allen received the Order of Distinction and Mrs Roselda Woodside was awarded the Order of Merit. The Prime Minister praised them as three individuals who have each given a lifetime of service to The Bahamas in their respective fields of endeavour and through community service in general.
PAGE 4, Friday, November 20, 2020
THE TRIBUNE
THE MEETING held yesterday to announce the plans for the Justice Labour Party to take part in the 2022 election.
Photos: Donovan McIntosh
New party vows to fight every seat except that of Glenys Hanna Martin By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net A NEW political party promising to ensure equality, justice and labour rights for all Bahamians has formed with the intention of contesting all but one seat in the 2022 general election. The party says the only seat it will not challenge is that of Englerston MP Glenys Hanna Martin. The Justice Labour Party is being led by Ricardo Smith, who said he intends to offer himself for the Pinewood constituency. Last year, Mr Smith told The Tribune he was gearing up to challenge Progressive Liberal Party deputy leader Chester Cooper yet again for the opposition party’s second in command spot. While Mr Smith did not disclose yesterday why he decided to leave the PLP to form his own party, he said his organisation is one that
RICARDO Smith speaking yesterday. believes in a free market economy. The party, he said, intends to implement a new system of government that is “philosophically different” from the Free National Movement and PLP. “The people of this nation have been searching for positive change, for a long time now, so much so that in the past 20 years or four election cycles we have not given any of the two parties a second term,” he said at yesterday’s launch.
“But every time we voted one of the two parties in the hope that the one we voted in, would bring something new to the table to change our decaying circumstances, they failed us and gave us more of the same. I say enough now. This time I invite my fellow Bahamians to come with labour.” The only current MP who will not be challenged is Mrs Hanna-Martin. “It is our view that Mrs Hanna-Martin has demonstrated over the years that she is a true champion for the people of her community and we see no reason why she should not continue in office,” said Mr Smith. He went on to claim his party is engaged in discussions with a sitting Member of Parliament to join the new JLP’s ranks. Key areas of focus for the party includes tackling immigration, transforming local government and creating justice and equality for all. Mr Smith also said the
party will aim to ensure that the country’s labour force is lawfully protected from unfair treatment. He continued: “On the matter of our economy, we are cognizant of the fact that the pandemic and poor financial decisions, some very questionable, by successive governments have left the economy in a dire state.” “We are quite aware that our economy will need new innovative ideas to rebound. With this in mind when we present our overall economic platform at the JLP Conference 2021 we will unveil the prosperity agenda for all Bahamians and the passport to the good life.” The JLP is also in support of a term limit being imposed for the prime minister. “We are satisfied that two terms or ten years is more than enough time to complete any agenda,” Mr Smith said. Meanwhile, as it relates to the party’s candidacy,
Mr Smith said there will be a mixture of young and older, more “mature” candidates. When asked what makes the JLP stand out from other political parties, he told reporters: “This is a labour party, our focus and our policies are far different from the regular run of the mill party. We will be focused on laws that ensure that the focus of the country are protected.” “You may not appreciate this but in our country today, we have in these Chinese establishments – these sweatshops. That is unacceptable. It’s unfair, the competition is absolutely unfair and it cannot be allowed and we will fix that. So, you will see a different form of government.” “At our conference 2021… the entire platform of this party will be laid out for you to see and you will see that our administration will be better suited for the commonwealth of The Bahamas.” Asked to respond to the
government’s current handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, the JLP leader said he did not want to criticise the government’s response to the health crisis. However, Mr Smith did not mince words while expressing his disappointment with House Speaker Halson Moultrie, calling his behaviour “deplorable” and “unacceptable”. “I’ve seen the conduct and the behaviour of the House Speaker of Assembly. It is deplorable. It’s unacceptable and it must be condemned on every front. A Speaker must remain impartial, he must appear to be impartial, but the Speaker appears now to be advocating for or asking for things for himself.” “I’m not saying that these are things he may not be entitled to, but it is improper for the Speaker of the House to be engaging in such behaviour and it is incumbent of the governing party to remove him forthwith.”
ILLEGAL RESIDENTS ‘CONSIDERABLE PORTION’ OF HURRICANE DEATHS By TANYA SMITHCARTWRIGHT tsmith-cartwright@ tribunemedia.net IRAM Lewis, State Minister of Disaster Preparedness, Management and Reconstruction, told Caribbean risk managers yesterday that illegal residents made up a “considerable” portion of those who died or went missing in the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian. Mr Lewis was a keynote speaker at the Caribbean Risk Management Academy Virtual Conference 2020. Dorian landed in
The Bahamas on September 1 last year and devastated Abaco and Grand Bahama with gusts of over 220mph and storm surges swelling as high as 23 feet. “On the island of Abaco, there were several unregulated, makeshift communities, which served as dwelling places for thousands of residents, primarily undocumented immigrants,” Minister Lewis said. “Most of these communities were utterly devastated, and their inhabitants represent a considerable portion of those dead or missing. “Understanding this,
post-Hurricane Dorian, the government announced a moratorium on construction in these communities primarily to ensure that if dwellers had legal rights to the land, the reconstruction of these structures would be congruent with national building codes.” He told the conference that ensuring resilience in recovery is a must and that all these factors are noteworthy to ensure future-proofing and risk reduction. “Further to this, to ensure resilience and the application of local knowledge and skills in a disaster zone, the Act
(Disaster Reconstruction Act 2019) calls for the establishment of a Disaster Zone Reconstruction Committee which is to play a significant role in executing the functions of the DRA,” he said. “September 1st, 2019, is a day that will be forever etched in Bahamian history. “That is when Hurricane Dorian made landfall on Elbow Cay, Abaco, as a calamitous and cataclysmic Category Five Hurricane. The United States National Hurricane Centre noted that this tropical system was the strongest storm to make landfall in the Atlantic Basin.” Hurricane Dorian left Central Abaco decimated and unrecognisable and moved along Grand Bahama at one mile an hour, causing the low-lying island to endure 41 hours of intense hurricane force conditions. “The initial damage assessments for Hurricane Dorian were valued at a staggering $3.4bn, representing nearly a quarter of the country’s gross domestic product,” Minister Lewis
explained. “But this amount is in no way comparable to the 74 souls that perished and the many more that remain missing today. “Disasters are increasing worldwide at an unprecedented and unequivocal rate resulting in large-scale loss and damage to individuals, communities, infrastructure, livelihoods, and countries. Within the Caribbean region, the existing hazard landscape requires immediate and decisive action in disaster risk management.” Minister Lewis told the conference that the story of Abaco and Grand Bahama is his main reason for being a part of the forum. He said the toll of Dorian and other super storms are reminders that Climate Change is real and can have devastating effects. “The toll of Hurricane Dorian and other super storms remind us of the impact of our changing climate,” he continued. “In its 5th assessment report, the inter-governmental panel on climate change warned that intensified hurricanes are likely due to warmer sea surface temperatures.
As a vulnerable small island developing state, The Bahamas must develop and enhance its arsenal in the war against climate change. “To fight this battle, all of us must take careful consideration of various adaptive measures. As a region of small islands, cays, and atolls that are vulnerable and susceptible to multiple hazardous events, we can no longer sit idly by and twiddle our thumbs as our countrymen suffer.” Out of the devastation of Hurricane Dorian the DRA was born. Its responsibilities are assessing the reconstruction needs of a disaster zone and preparing a reconstruction plan, monitoring, regulating, and administering all matters related to a disaster zone. It is also responsible for arranging the distribution of funds or materials for construction, overseeing the restoration of government services in a disaster zone and, establishing and coordinating relationships with national and international bodies engaged with similar or ancillary pursuits.
MAN ACCUSED OF ASSAULTING POLICE OFFICERS By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net A FREEPORT man accused of assaulting two police officers was arraigned in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court yesterday. Brian Smith, 33, of No 9 East Indianman Road, appeared before Deputy Chief Magistrate Debbye Ferguson where he was represented by Paco Deal.
Smith was charged with disorderly behaviour, using obscene language to Sergeant 3167 Bullard and resisting arrest. Smith is also accused of causing damage. It is alleged that he intentionally damaged a white i-Phone 7, valued at $800, the property Sgt Bullard. He was also charged with causing damage to a red and black i-Phone RX, valued at $600, the property of officer 3775 Beneby.
The accused was also charged with assaulting both officers – Sgt Bullard and officer Beneby, while in the execution of their duties on November 17. Smith pleaded not guilty to all the charges and elected summary trial. Prosecutor Calsey Arthur objected to bail. The case was adjourned to February 1, 2021. Mr Deal indicated that he would apply to the Supreme Court for bail for his client.
SUSPECT DENIES CLAIMS OF ATTACKING SISTERS By FARRAH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter fjohnson@tribunemedia.net
A MAN was remanded to prison yesterday over allegations he assaulted two sisters. Livingston Rolle allegedly assaulted a woman
with a black shotgun and threatened to kill her on November 16. He is also accused of assaulting the woman’s sister on the same day. During his hearing before Magistrate Carolyn VogtEvans yesterday, Mr Rolle denied the allegations.
The case was subsequently adjourned to February 25 for trial. Due to the nature of the charges, Rolle was denied bail. The accused, who is represented by attorney Ian Cargill, has a right to apply to the Supreme Court for bail.
THE TRIBUNE
Friday, November 20, 2020, PAGE 5
PATRICIA MINNIS, the wife of Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis, with Keith Cos, president of the International Men’s Day organisation, centre, and Frankie Campbell MP.
Photos: Donovan McIntosh
Day is chance to hail male unsung heroes A MURAL was unveiled yesterday at the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium in observance of International Men’s Day. This is the third year that men’s day has been observed in The Bahamas and despite the pandemic, officials expressed determination to commemorate the moment again. Social Services Minister Frankie Campbell told reporters this was an opportunity to celebrate the positivity of men, the unsung heroes who on a daily basis give advice and support to some young men in their local communities. The day comes after a fatal shooting of a man on Tuesday night and the murders of many other young
men. Mr Campbell highlighted the Department of Corrections’ population is a majority of men. The minister said in order for people’s behaviour to change there must be a change in mindset. “These kinds of activities will contribute to the change of one’s mindset, will contribute to a more positive outlook, will contribute to younger person’s growing up with a greater appreciation for the benefits to be derived by taking positive actions as opposed to negative action,” he said. Patricia Minnis, wife of Prime Minister Hubert Minnis, also spoke and recognised the need for initiatives for men and women. Mrs Minnis said: “I have
been focusing mainly on women and girls and so with this initiative from the United Nations I decided to engage and focus on adolescent boys as well because a lot of my work is in the school and so many times when I go there the young men are like ‘Oh why we can’t be a part of this’.” In deciding on how to have engagement with young men, the Simpson Penn Boys School came to mind thus the idea came for some care packages. “We have some socks and undershirts, deodorant and you know all things that young men in that institution will need to know that though they’re there, there’s somebody outside who cares about them.”
SOCIAL Services Minister Frankie Campbell speaking at yesterday’s event.
$1,200 TO BE GIVEN TO 1,000 THIS MONTH TO HELP PAY RENT By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net
SOCIAL Services Minister Frankie Campbell says 1,000 rental assistance applicants will be given $1,200 to help them with paying rent this month. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of an event in observance of International Men’s Day, Mr Campbell said the assistance is only given once a year. However, he admitted the policy may need to be reviewed based on the situation the country finds itself in moving forward due to COVID-19. “Rental assistance, as I would’ve indicated in the
first instance, was meant to be an agreement between the landlord and the tenant based on the fact that the government had advanced an argument to the lenders and had gotten a stay of mortgage payments for a period,” said Mr Campbell. “We realise that didn’t work out and so we have been processing rental assistance. we are processing rental assistance. The pandemic forced us to speed up our efforts towards digitisation and so we’re seizing the opportunity, while there are a number of requests from persons for assistance to see how we could incorporate and speed up the digitisation platform. So, we are
giving rental assistance.” This is monetary assistance, he said, adding: “I’m advised this month that we are going to be assisting almost 1,000 persons. “Now there is a backlog, I acknowledge that, but we are working on it and I promise that we are nearing the official launch of our digital platform. which will speed up the process. “We are giving approximately $1,200 per applicant.” In April Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis announced details of his rental assistance programme revealing at the time that an initiative that will be based on deferrals
THREATENING NEIGHBOUR SEES MAN WARNED By FARRAH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter fjohnson@tribunemedia.net
A 35-YEAR-OLD man who threatened to harm his neighbour last week was yesterday discharged with a warning. Amein Burrows appeared before Senior Magistrate Carolyn Vogt-Evans after he was accused of threatening to harm Cameron Jones on November 16. The court heard around 6pm that day, Mr Jones got into an argument with Mr Burrows at his farm off of Cowpen Road. The prosecution said during the disagreement, the defendant told Mr Jones he would
expletive him up. His comments caused the complainant to fear for his life and prompted him to file an official complaint with police. Mr Burrows was arrested a short time later. In an interview with police at a nearby station, he admitted being involved in an argument with Mr Jones on the day in question, but denied making any threats towards him. During the hearing, Mr Burrows was represented by attorney Devard Francis. He told the magistrate the argument happened between two neighbours. He said Mr Burrows owned his own landscaping company and noted that he also
pleaded guilty at his earliest opportunity to avoid wasting the court’s time and resources. As a result, after accepting Mr Burrows’ guilty plea, Magistrate Vogt-Evans discharged the defendant with a warning. Yesterday, Mr Burrows was also charged with driving an unlicensed vehicle. He pleaded guilty to that charge and was fined $200 for committing the offence and another $50 for the warrant of arrest that was issued for him. Magistrate Vogt-Evans said if he failed to pay the fines, he would be sentenced to six days at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services.
and will apply only to residential rentals. He said people who qualify for the programme will be able to postpone up to 40 percent of their rent payment for the next three months, beginning this month. He said at the time that there should be “no evictions between now and the end of June unless the
tenant had been legally eligible for eviction before April,” adding that at the end of the three-month period, people will have 12 months to pay back the deferred amount. “This means for example, that if an individual’s rent is $800 per month, they will be required to pay $480 per month over the next three months,” he said. “The
remainder will be deferred or postponed.” However, in May Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Peter Turnquest said the government does not plan to intervene in and settle disputes between landlords and tenants who qualify for the COVID19 rental assistance programme.
Death Notice for CORENE GWENETTE MOSS-CLEARE, 41 of Eton Ave., Cable Beach, died at Doctors Hospital on Tuesday, November 17th, 2020. She is survived by her Husband: Marcus Cleare; Sons: Christian and Carstew Cleare; Stepson: Matthais Cleare; Parents: Huedley and Victoria Moss; Brother: Huey (Monica) Moss; Adopted Sister: Anastasia Stubbs; and a host of other relatives and friends. Funeral will be announced at a later date.
PAGE 6, Friday, November 20, 2020
THE TRIBUNE
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Good riddance to a building long past its best IT’S the end of an era – and not before time. The demolition of the old General Post Office on East Hill Street began yesterday. It will not be missed. An ugly carbuncle on the landscape, its horrendous appearance outside was matched by an interior that had long passed its best before date. The Tribune’s reporters would often hear tales of workers having to put up with mould, or burst water pipes damaging mail – even staff having to fight off rats in the building. It’s been a long time since its better years, but even then it was an unattractive building out of keeping with the landscape around it. More than anything, as those years went by, it seemed such a waste of a location too. It took up such a huge amount of space near Downtown, rather than using that space for something that could spark the development of the whole area. You can understand why Downtown Nassau managing director Ed Fields was so excited to see the start of its removal. “When you look at the port, the demolition of the Post Office building and the Central Bank to come, it’s major works being done for Downtown and it can only have a positive impact on the smaller businesses going forward,” he said. “This is monumental stuff to see this level of transformation. We’ve been crying out for many, many years to revitalise Downtown and this is the earnest commencement of that.” It is just a beginning, but one that we’ve been longing to see. If other developments can help the whole area to flourish, we look forward to a Downtown where retailers are battling to secure spaces rather than seeing empty units grow by the week. We look
forward to streets where retailers keep those units in good condition, rather than seeing fading shop fronts and decaying balconies. This is also a great time to get these developments done – when things have ground to a halt otherwise. It puts money in construction worker’s pockets and avoids disruption to the tourist economy. Well done, all round. Let this be the spark to encourage others to continue the transformation.
Drop in the bucket
The Minister of Social Services, Frankie Campbell, said that 1,000 of those who applied for rental assistance will be given $1,200 this month. That may sound substantial – but it is a one-off payment. He said this assistance is given only once a year. We all know how much rent costs – so this is little more than a drop in the bucket for many who have been hoping such assistance might keep the roof literally over their head. Mr Campbell admitted the policy might need review. He said he hoped rental assistance would have been an agreement between the landlord and the tenant – but “we realise that didn’t work out and so we have been processing rental assistance”. The outcome is a bill of $1.2m for the government – but it won’t help many tenants for long. This money will only bail out some of the amount owed for many residents – so the question is what comes next? Admitting the policy might need reviewed won’t pay next month’s rent, or the month after. In short, time to work out what to do, and do so in a hurry. We don’t want to see people finding no shelter over Christmas.
Tourism requirements EDITOR, The Tribune. EXCITING articles in your newspaper the past week about the imminent rebound of tourism with hotels reopening and new easier tests are absolutely unbelievable considering the harsh entry requirements. Who will fill the hotels and resorts if they cannot gain entry? It is like a fairy story. Most prospective visitors and returning winter residents like my family cannot travel because the five-day rule and the bureaucratic Health Visa cannot be completed in time to travel. Who would purchase an air
ticket and put money down for accommodation not knowing whether they can actually take the few flights available? Busy working people do not have the time to get the tests, go to get the results, scan these to Nassau and await confirmation about travel. You cannot plan with any degree of certainty. Requiring expensive tests will also deter many from coming. I could never believe that we would be prevented from going to our own property in The Bahamas due to the poorly designed entry policies. Our travel agent is advising clients to
look elsewhere. They are booking people to other destinations which are easier to enter. How can the Bahamian economy ever rebound if your policies prevent even eager visitors from coming? Drop the Health Visa and allow people to bring test results no older than seven days and there may be a chance of recovery. Otherwise you must face the reality of a lost tourist season with many disappointed former fans of Bahamaland. EDWARD MOSSMAN Ontario, Canada November 17, 2020
READERS HAVE THEIR SAY ON TRIBUNE242.COM After Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said visitors to The Bahamas face deportation if they do not complete a short survey each day for at least 14 days if they are in the country, readers posted their responses on tribune242. com. K4C said: “Well, this will enhance the Bahamian experience, not to mention the new advertising for visiting the Bahamas, come on down and spend some time in prison or, better yet, get deported.” C2B posted this comment: “You mean ‘came on vacation, left on probation’ isn’t a slogan? In reality this is a tough situation and I think any visitors that come to The Bahamas do so because they love it and this is a small inconvenience they will overcome.”
• Bruce Raine told Tribune Business that due to COVID-19 and the shutdown of the cruise industry he would be permanently closing the Bay Streetbased The Linen Shop. Proguing had this to say: “Very sorry to hear that. Unfortunately we will be left with the same chain stores or restaurants that can be found at every other Caribbean destination. With Biden eager to open up Cuba, who will want to cruise to the Bahamas?” There was this from Jus2cents: “How sad, its such a great shop. One of the few that has a lot of Bahamian books downtown. The best place for Bahamian Christmas decor too.” Clamshell said: “Once upon a time, Nassau attracted the sort of tourists
who would shop for fine linens, watches, jewellery, etc. Then we sold out to the cruise ships, whose cheapskate tourists barely buy a bag of potato chips. You reap what you sow.” • PLP Leader Philip “Brave” Davis said only something egregious would prevent incumbent PLP parliamentarians from being ratified as candidates in the next general election. That prompted Themessenger to post this: “The unfortunate part about electing a candidate not aligned with the frontline party that is victorious is that they will be just a voice in the wilderness, no funding, no notice taken of them. Unless there is a monumental shift in the way Bahamians vote, I just don’t see it happening.”
An oily Bahamas Christmas EDITOR, The Tribune. AN OILY Christmas in The Bahamas before 2020 is out, in a matter of weeks, foreign oil interests calling themselves Bahamas Petroleum Company (BPC), are poised to begin drilling for oil in Bahamian waters. For those unfamiliar with Bahamian waters, they are hard to see. Why? Well, these waters are hard to see because they are so clear and clean. Without fresh water rivers and major sources of pollution, the turquoise-tinted waters of The Bahamas are nearly pristine. The vast bulk of our economy here is driven by the richness, love for, and continued health of these waters. Looking out from our pink beaches, it is swimming and snorkeling, wading and beach combing, diving with sharks, along with sport fishing and exploring our crystalline waters which beckon people here from the world over. Not only that, a sizable portion of our population makes their living as fishermen. Diving up lobster, conch, and fin-fish, not only providing our most valued, nutritious and delectable local seafood, but providing thousands of jobs to our people, and our tables with food. Bone fishing guides, charter boat captains and tour operators all rely upon these unpolluted waters to make their living while employing many of our Family of Islands natives. That in today’s day and age, The Bahamas, and the world at large, can allow the oil industry to jeopardise the economy, food sources, livelihoods and the very future of so many people in one of the most threatened island
LETTERS letters@tribunemedia.net nations in the world is beyond me. The debate on whether the burning of fossil fuels is good for our planet is over. Isn’t it? The debate on whether The Bahamas is threatened with extinction by sea level rise is over. Isn’t it? The age of medical doctors telling people that smoking cigarettes does not harm their health is over. Isn’t it? So, how is it that a government that has been to the UN with their hand out for money to combat the effects of climate change can allow this drilling to move forward? How is it that the Bahamian Prime Minister, a medical doctor who claims he is “science oriented”, remains silent on this matter while seeking money to combat the effects of climate change from the outside world? The massive drilling rig, Stena iceMAX is now in the Canary Islands, ready to sail for The Bahamas. According to Simon Potter, CEO of Bahamas Petroleum Company, “Perseverance One is a potentially basin-opening well, with the kind of scale and associated value uplift exposure rarely offered outside of oil majors,” Mr Potter argued. “At the same time, our activities, in the event of success, have the capacity to be economically transformative for the nation of The Bahamas, and could ultimately contribute billions of dollars in royalty revenues to the national treasury at a time when the dual impact of
recent hurricanes and the COVID-19 pandemic has been especially hard-felt by most Bahamians.” Mr Potter added: “There’s no financial risk to the Government.” Really Mr Potter. No financial risk? Tell that to the governments and people of the US Gulf Coast communities after the Horizon disaster. No financial risk, my ass. Having written on this matter many times, I am asking for global support in opposing these most foolish activities. Do I really need to go into what is at stake here? Do I really need to plead my case that drilling for oil in one of the most threatened countries on the planet makes no sense? Is this not the time for us to expect worldwide support in our fight for our future? I am asking, not for money, but for a few minutes of your time to address our newspapers, our Ministers of Parliament, our so-called “leaders”, in helping quash this most ill-timed game of Russian roulette. We have too much to lose here in The Bahamas. This should not be a “What can I do?” moment, nor is this just an essay. We need everyone’s help. Take a few minutes to write. Please. Jr
NORMAN TRABULSY Mangrove Cay, Andros. November 19, 2020.
The Bahamas Norman Trabulsy Jr is a father, husband and lover of Bahamian lands and waters. He is a licensed captain and nature guide, and a not always optimistic citizen activist in The Bahamas. He can be reached at ntrabulsyjr@gmail.com
THE TRIBUNE
Friday, November 20, 2020, PAGE 7
Haitian man who entered country twice sent to prison By FARRAH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter fjohnson@tribunemedia.net A HAITIAN man who illegally entered the country on two separate occasions was yesterday fined $3,000 and sentenced to six months in prison. Anel François appeared before Senior Magistrate Carolyn Vogt-Evans after he was found in Eleuthera on November 16. The prosecution said he gave immigration officers a false name at the time of his arrest. The court was told that after François was apprehended by police officers, he was turned over to the immigration department in Governor’s Harbour for further processing. He was
later taken to Nassau where he was committed to the Detention Centre for questioning. During his interview with officers, François said his first name was Beniel. However, after he was fingerprinted, a match came up in the system for him under the name Anel François. His arrest record also showed he had been detained in 2018 for illegal landing and was previously granted a conditional discharge on the condition that he would not return to the Bahamas once he was deported. Still, François told officers he returned to the Bahamas in the same year that he was repatriated to Haiti. During the arraignment, François asked the
magistrate to have mercy on him. Magistrate Carolyn VogtEvans noted the accused was previously given leniency when he was first brought before the courts in 2018. She said what made matters worse was the fact François continued to offend the law by giving immigration officers a false name, after returning to the country following his first deportation. As a result, she sentenced the accused to six months at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services for illegal landing and fined him $3,000 for giving immigration officials a false answer. She said if François failed to pay the fine, he would serve an additional six months behind bars.
JAILED FOR BREAKING INTO HIS PARENT’S HOME By FARRAH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter fjohnson@tribunemedia.net
A 29-YEAR-OLD man who broke into his parent’s home and stole an assortment of items was yesterday sentenced to three months in prison. Gerad Bethel was arrested after he broke into his parent’s Davis Street residence and stole almost $500 worth of items on November 16. He pleaded guilty during a hearing before Senior Magistrate Carolyn Vogt-Evans. The court was told that the accused’s father, Bruce Bethel, had told officers that sometime between 10am and 12pm, someone unknown to him broke into his residence and stole a $279 Samsung cell phone
and a tile grinder, among other items. After Mr Bethel requested police action, his son was arrested and taken to a nearby station. When he was questioned in custody, he admitted to the offences. He then took police to the place where he had hidden the stolen items. Both of Bethel’s parents were present at the arraignment. During the proceedings, his mother told the magistrate that her son had mental health issues and had been admitted to the Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre in the past. She said she and Bethel’s father were divorced, but still lived under the same roof. She added that she was willing to pay her ex-husband for the items that their son had stolen. Mr Bethel on the other hand, told
Magistrate Vogt-Evans he was not aware of his son’s mental health issues. After giving them an opportunity to speak, Magistrate Vogt-Evans noted that another magistrate had put Bethel on probation, which required him to stay out of trouble for three years or risk spending three months in prison. As Bethel pleaded guilty to housebreaking and stealing within that time frame, she convicted him of the offences and imposed the default sentence on him. After sentencing the accused, Magistrate VogtEvans reminded his parents that he was not the state’s responsibility. She subsequently encouraged them to put their personal differences aside to get their son the help he needs.
HOMELESS MAN SENTENCED FOR SERIES OF THEFTS By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net A HOMELESS man in Grand Bahama was arraigned yesterday in Freeport Magistrate’s Court on numerous counts of shopbreaking and stealing from two business establishments in the Freeport area. Steven Archer, 55, of no known fixed address, appeared before Deputy Chief Magistrate Debbye Ferguson where he pleaded guilty to all 10 counts and admitted he needed help for his “drug addiction problem”. “I’m tired, I need to get myself together,” the man, homeless for three years, told the judge. Magistrate Ferguson read a long list of charges to the accused. Archer was charged with multiple shopbreaking and stealing offences that occurred between October and November 2020, at Geneva’s Restaurant and Yum Yums Daiquiri Shop. It is alleged that at Freeport between November 10 and 11, the accused broke and entered Geneva’s without intent to steal. On the same date and place, the accused allegedly stole a bottle of Hennessey, Jack Daniels, Stoli Vodka, coconut water, altogether valued at $138. Between November 1
and 2, Archer broke into Geneva’s and stole a bottle of Stoli Vodka, Coconut Rum, five cans of Cranberry juice, and seven sodas, valued at $76. Between November 12-13, he broke into the same restaurant and stole an assortment of canned items, including beans, corned beef, and mackerel, valued at $200. Archer also attempted to break into the establishment again on November 12-13. The homeless man also broke into Yum Yums Daiquiri. It is alleged that between October 16 and 17, the accused broke into the establishment, and stole 24 sodas, chips, and a roll of garbage bags, altogether valued at $76. He again broke into the same establishment between October 5 to 7 and stole a black solar light, valued at $50. After pleading guilty to all the charges, Prosecutor Calsey Arthur read the particulars of the cases. He noted that police investigations led to Archer’s arrest. While being interviewed under caution, the accused admitted to breaking into Geneva’s Restaurant and stealing the items to support his drug addiction, and other times when he was hungry and wanted something to eat and drink.
Archer also admitted to breaking into Yum Yums because he was hungry and that he stole the solar light to sell. The judge asked Archer how long he had been homeless. “Three years,” he replied. Archer explained that he became homeless after the storm when he lost all his mechanic’s tools. “I worked for myself and lost my home, and the place I was staying, I could not pay the rent,” he said. “Send me for help – I started using drugs again after the storm in September.” Prosecutor Arthur told the judge that Archer is a repeat offender and had been in jail in 2019. “I’m tired, I need to get myself together,” Archer said. Magistrate Ferguson ordered Archer to pay $414 compensation to Geneva’s Restaurant and $126 to Yum Yums for the stolen items from those establishments by November 30 at 12 noon. On failing to pay, Archer is to serve two consecutive months on the counts of stealing from a shop. On the shop-breaking counts, the judge sentenced Archer to serve two months consecutively. The sentences are to run concurrently.
THROWING ROCKS ENDS UP COSTING MAN $150 By FARRAH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter fjohnson@tribunemedia.net
A 31-YEAR-OLD man who threw rocks at another man during an argument earlier this week has been ordered to pay him $150 compensation. Police said Allen Emmanuel assaulted a man around 10pm on November 17. He admitted the offence during a hearing before Senior Magistrate Carolyn
Vogt-Evans. The court was told the complainant got into an argument with Emmanuel at his residence. The prosecution said the defendant threw rocks at the man during the verbal altercation. This prompted him to request police action. Emmanuel was subsequently arrested. He denied the allegations in an interview with police. During the hearing, Emmanuel was represented by attorney Tony Scriven.
He told the magistrate his client took responsibility for what he had done and was remorseful for his actions. He also said while Emmanuel did throw rocks during the altercation, the complainant never sustained any injuries. As a result, Magistrate Vogt-Evans granted Emmanuel a conditional discharge on the agreement he would pay his victim $150. She said if he failed to do so, he would be sentenced to a week behind bars.
THE SCENE of the house fire on Tuesday morning.
Photo: Donovan McIntosh
POLICE PROBE DEADLY HOUSE FIRE NEW Providence police are investigating a structural fire, which they believe caused the death of a man early Tuesday morning. The home was completely destroyed.
According to police reports shortly after 12 midnight the fire department was called to a structural fire on Tyler Street. On arrival, the unit found a single-story structure engulfed in flames. Police
said the fire was extinguished a short time later. A search of the dwelling was conducted during which the man’s body was discovered. Investigations are continuing.
Private Graveside Service For
Lampheir Leonardo Maycock, 50 of West Ave., Millar’s Heights, will be held on Saturday, November 21st, 2020 at Woodlawn Gardens, Soldier Road. Officiating will be Pastor Arthur Leroy Maycock, assisted by Pastor Paulette Johnson, Pastor Stephen Munroe and Pastor Lampheir Lance Maycock. Due to current Government regulations in respect of Covid-19, attendance is limited to ten (10) persons. The service will be Live Streamed, commencing at 9:00 a.m. via the following links: https://www.facebook.com/lampheirmaycock/ & https://youtu.be/pjMVtuVA4Lk Left to cherish his earthly loss and celebrating his Heavenly Home Going are his Wife: Mornette Antoinette Maycock; Children: Orlando, Lance & Lavant Maycock; Grandchildren: Javado Butler & Olivia Octavia Maycock; Step Daughters: Tajh Thurston & Gabriel Rolle; Step Son-in-law: Myron Rolle; Step Grandchild: Myleah Rolle; Sisters: Euricka Rolle, Christine Heastie & Joy Dean; Brothers: Pastor Arthur Leroy, Herman, Petty Officer (Ret.) RBDF Anthony Patrick, Audley, Lynden, Dereo, Richmond & Mark Maycock; Parents-in-law: Emperor & Dollymae McKenzie; Sisters-in-law: Judith, Sabrina, Michelle, Carolyn, Lynette, Sheanda & Amoranna Maycock, Santina Greene & Charmaine McKenzie; Brothers-in-law: Everette Rolle, Andrew Dean, Jamar Greene, Conrad & Conwell McKenzie; Foster Sisters: Merlene Dames, Delmeta Seymour, Arizona Rolle, Erica McKinney & Orion Munroe; Foster Brothers: Michael Munroe, Derek A. Cox & Granville Collie; Aunts: Carol Johnson, Laura Williams, Loletha Gaitor, Doris Taylor, Cynthia Armbrister, Vivian Rahming, Joanne & Sylvia Smith, Linda, Barbara & Pamela Moss; Grand Aunts: Jane Adderley, Rev. Alice Ferguson (Freeport) & Eloise Armbrister; Special Aunts: Marina Smith & Willa Mae “Peggy” Bridgewater; Godmothers: Pastor Paulette Johnson, Delmeta Seymour and Vernice Bodie; Uncles: Stafford & Wilfred Rahming, Christopher, Bishop Sterling & Basil Moss, Lawrence & Robert Smith, Timothy Pinder, James Williams & Wayne Gaitor; Nieces & Nephews (with Spouses, where applicable): Lacretia & Kristen Johnson, Hermanda & Cordero Robinson, Krystle, Kandice, Karissa, Herman Jr. & Jadale, Hermandell, Alexis, Patrick, Aniesha, Leemourn, Lynden Favian, Lyle, Lailah, Derean, DèShanel, Dereal, Dereo PARCE, Richmond Jr., Rashad, Raishon, Rashantia, Angel, Marquel, Mark Jr., Malia & Deondre Maycock, Latura & Lathel Rolle, Jemesha, Christa & Christon Heastie, Alexa, Joshua & Amber-Rose Dean, Ishmael Bethel; Grand Nieces & Nephews: Zyana, Zayne & Zaryelle Johnson, Ivanna McKenzie, Dèsha McKinney, Camillah-Rose and Camden Robinson, Patrick Jr., Peyton, Amieco, & Kaeli Maycock; Cousins (& Family, where applicable): Jancie & Pastor Stephen Greene, Patricia, George & Regina Pratt, Pandora & Kenwitte Rahming, Patrice & Nathaniel Stone Jr. (Mississippi), Ranford & Michelle, Nekita, Andrew & Tietchka Johnson, Ann Williams, Petra & Godfrey Wallace; Robyn Smith-Lockhart & Racquel Smith; Karen & Latoya Rolle, Shamel Sands, Lawrence Sr., Leonice, Inderia, Lashanna & Lashae Smith; Leroy Armbrister; Paula, Marie, Dwight, Stephanie & Richard Rahming; Wilfred Rahming Jr.; Judd, Kera, Jenson & Jocklano Williams; Thomas Jr. & Zharroh Grant; Valencia & Valentino Moss, Vernita & Gordon Coakley, Christopher Jr., Deangelo, Nicara, Lynden, Kevin, Joy, Candia, Keyshawn, Alicia, Latrell, Brittany & Mya Moss; Matthew & Wayne Gaitor, Myrtle Stubbs, Sharon Farrington, Rosalee Dean, Genesta Bethel, Bridgette Armbrister, Clement Lavern Maycock, Mary Jane Moxey, Anne Wallace, Clifford, Ruben, Patsy, Gregory, Dorman & Debra Stubbs, Arthura Woodside, Kenva Major, Eldon & Cradell Kelly, Miguel Major, Kentasia Rahming, Georgette Pratt, Juanita Gardiner, Carlos Dames, Zanovia Ferguson, Chantelle Colebrooke, Delano Dames; Delmar, Delray, Daren, Delbert & Dahlia Seymour; Tanya Turnquest, Narissa King, Sean & Ryan Munroe; Ashanti & Clement Clarke Jr., Chavez Munroe, Roland Octavien, Xavier Charles & Isaiah Joseph; Other relatives and friends including: Bishop Hartman Rolle & Family, The Family of the late Bishop Errol J. Simmons, Pastor Timothy Johnson and the Baillou Hill Road Community Church Family, Bishop Kirkwood Murphy and the Temple Fellowship Ministry, Apostle Stephen Munroe and Believers Embassy International, the entire Church of God of Prophecy Bahamas Family, The Family of the late Bishop Nathaniel Beneby, Captain Cephas & Maudline Maycock & Family, Oraline Maycock and Family, Maxine Maycock & Family, Minister Denver Dames, Eulease Munroe, Sheila Seymour, Anastacia FergusonPratt & Family, Minerva Edwards, Vulanria Bastian, Kishka Rolle-Pennerman, Areta Bastian, Shorntae Kelly, Trayetter Maycock, Chalondra Cormon “CC” Yelverton, Welma Butler & Family, Ruby Hepburn & Family, Pandora & Dr. Shequel Pearce, Hollan & Elsie Dean & Family, Edward “Eddie” Ramsey, Perry Saunders, Minister Nathalie Beatrice Ferguson & Family, Retired Nurse Patricia Bethel, Leroy & Melvern Davis & Family, Beverley Kerr, Jacqueline Clarke & Family, The Garden Hills Crew, The Coconut Grove, Sunlight Village, Ragged Island & Cat Island Communities, Driving School Association, Road Traffic Department, Members of the A. F. Adderley Class of 1987, S. C. McPherson Class of 1984 and Yellow Elder Primary Class of 1981. “We apologize if we missed anyone from the exhaustive listing, it was not our intention” May His Soul Rest In Peace. Friends may pay their last respects at Bethel Brothers Morticians & Crematorium, #44 Nassau St. (TODAY) Friday November 20th from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
PAGE 8, Friday, November 20, 2020
THE TRIBUNE
Video not only thing going viral at Charms A Comic’s View
By INIGO ‘NAUGHTY’ ZENICAZELAYA
THIS week we saw the quest for aragonite continue, the birth of yet another new political party, and the usual wheels spinning in the mud from parliament. However, the story capturing the most attention, garnering the most headlines, and setting tongues wagging was the now infamous RBPF raid at Charms Private Lounge and Restaurant, which went viral instantly. AT WHAT PRICE? Anyone who knows me can attest I’ve always been a fan of lavish parties, social events, and night clubs. Not blowing my own horn, but I was the architect for one of the most successful runs in Bahamian club history. There wasn’t a time over my five-year run as promotion and marketing manager at the World Famous Zoo Nightclub (now Club Luna) that we didn’t have the hottest weekly parties (or biggest live concerts) with the days’ hottest artists. Not to mention the wildest Spring Break crowds and contests. Now that’s not taking anything away from Waterloo, Cocktails and Dreams, and Bahama Boom, who more than held their own and had their fair share of good times and wild promotional events. What existed back then was mutual respect between club owners and staff of the clubs, as mentioned earlier, and, more importantly, the industry. We policed ourselves and held each other accountable for the sake of the industry. I was mentored by some of the best in the business: the late Richard Bethel and Brian Aranah. Along with Ian Waugh, Charlie Johnson, Kurt Melnachuck and Al Collie. And I can attest that despite all of our mutual love for making money while having a good time, none of us would have tempted fate in the manner Charms did. It’s simply not good for business overall. There is no longevity in today’s club scene. The majority of this generation’s promoters are very repetitive in their promotions, which lack the imagination and creativity of bygone days. That’s why I was shocked to see the Charms viral video as it unfolded. Patrons had a mass exodus like Israelites out of Egypt; the finest “Clown Car” in all of Ringling Brothers had nothing on the continuous stream of “clowns” popping out in succession. The majority were wearing masks to their credit, but rabble-rousing all along
the way as they exited. The RBPF did their best with crowd control as it was painfully obvious they were amid a “D Average” convention, social distancing be damned. This whole debacle is further proof that “D Average” is alive and well in The Bahamas. Did the fiasco in Bimini not remind the club owners, staff, and patrons of Charms, that a gathering of that magnitude might not be a wise choice. “Money got to make” as the old-timers say, so Charms threw caution to the wind in pursuit of the almighty dollar. I hope after dealing with the penalties, Charms continues to operate, just a lot more responsibly. Also, I sincerely hope the patrons who attended the Bimini and Charms events, respectively, remain healthy and stay COVID free. Hopefully, they get a lot smarter after 2020 is over. To their credit, though, our “D Average” is far better than some internationally. For example, let’s look at Tuscaloosa, Alabama, where some old traditions – good and evil – die hard and new ones come alive. INFECTIOUS FUN In a strange turn of events, youngsters in America are throwing COVID-19 parties, where people with coronavirus attend in a bid to see who gets infected first. PATIENT #1 WINS At these parties, the attendees buy tickets, the money from which goes into a common fund—the first person confirmed by a doctor to have coronavirus after the exposure wins. SWEET HOME ALABAMA These now trendy “corona parties” originated in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, where “D average” is also standard, factor in generations of alleged inbreeding, and you have the recipe for something extra “special”. Tuscaloosa’s rage is inviting known infected people to attend, so others can intentionally contract the virus. (Yes, you read that correctly) PARTY POOPERS Efforts to curb this practice, especially with the trend picking up steam, has Tuscaloosa city officials working feverishly (no pun intended) around the clock to spread awareness and break up these idiotic “corona parties”. Tuscaloosa has also passed a mask ordinance to help curb the spread. There is an anonymous tip line to report “corona parties”
SOME of those caught on camera during the police raid on Charms nightclub.
and other events occurring throughout the state of Alabama. THE NUMBERS GAME With 12,053,210 cases in the US along with 258,195 deaths, Alabama Governor Kay Ivey commented “It’s time to pull out all the stops; we must curb this pandemic one way or another.” Which translates into potential : • Arrests • Fines • Loss of Business Licence (If the party is in a business establishment ) OPTIONS Instead of playing with fire on multiple levels here at home, with social distancing protocols and the “emergency rules” implemented by the competent authority and parties or large gatherings, stay at home. Whether held in private homes, all inclusive resorts, fish fry, or a myriad of nightclubs and bars pushing the envelope concerning the land’s laws, “emergency rules” or not, is never a good idea. BOREDOM SETTING IN So after months of social distancing, some people are starting to run out of shows
to binge, skills to learn, and chores to do. What we could all use is a good laugh. Here are five options of fun-filled stay-at-home activities to help you ride out this wretched pandemic with a smile or at least without being arrested or being overcome with boredom. CHEF IT UP You’re stuck at home, and your kitchen is calling your name. You might not have all the ingredients you need, but don’t let that stop you. See what you can put together with the staples you have. You could even give baking a go. You know those sweet treats would be a hit with your family and neighbours if you want to share from a distance. I mean, who doesn’t want to whip up a dish or two after binge-watching one of the many incarnations of Gordon Ramsey for hours on YouTube. Speaking of YouTube, mostly everyone remains confined at home, except those who have essential jobs. You might find a celebrity chef giving a tutorial online. Or a simple YouTube tutorial will also suffice. Watch, learn, add your twist, and have tasty fun throughout the pandemic. GUITAR LESSONS That’s right, I said it, guitar lessons.
Death Notice For
MARGARETA ANN HALL, 54
a resident of Kemp Road & formerly of Rock Sound, Eleuthera, died at PMH on Friday, November 13, 2020. She is survived by her spouse: Samuel Butler; mother: Winifred Hall; 1 son: Deangelo Hall; 2 daughters: Savannah & Shanice Butler; 2 granddaughters: Destiny Hall & Vanreya Butler; 2 brothers: Valentino & Cedric Hall; 4 sisters: Maria Mackey Smith, Nadine Rolle, Sheena Thompson & Yolanda Major; mother-in-law: Delores Scavella; son-in-law: Stancheh Ferguson; numerous nieces & nephews & a host of other relatives & friends.
Is there a musical instrument you’ve wanted to learn how to play? Or an arts and craft project you’ve meant to tackle, or a professional camera lying around collecting dust? You are at home with plenty of time on your hands, so now is the time to either pick up that forgotten hobby or start a new one. If you’ve wanted to learn how to play an instrument or find a new hobby, you could order one online and find how-to videos on YouTube. BACK TO SCHOOL Universities and colleges around the world have online classes you could take. And now you have the time. It’s a win-win scenario for all. Or how about learning a new language. Give Duolingo or a similar app a try. You’ll be ready for an international vacation by the time this “on and off lockdown” is lifted. Forget Florida! BACKYARD FARMING Backyard farming is a great way to cut down on the essential groceries you need to pick up at the store. It also can be very therapeutic during this stressful time. You don’t have to dig up your backyard to plant the seeds. There are ways to grow vegetables and herbs inside. Get a backyard farming
kit for free from the Ministry of Agriculture’s Backyard Farming Programme and get your “green thumb” started right away. VIRTUAL HAPPY HOUR At some point, you must have known I would ensure “libations” would be a part of the equation. Now is not the time to hole up and be anti-social! Our mental health still needs to be social with others; you might have to do it virtually. Get a group chat going or, better yet, have a virtual happy hour with friends. Pour yourself a glass of your favourite adult beverage and hop on a Zoom call with your besties. This connection will likely bring out all the laughs, and laughter is some of the best medicine right now. Additionally, if ever you wanted to see what your friends look like when they “drunk dial” you, here’s your golden opportunity. There will be no need for a designated driver. And most importantly, the RBPF won’t raid your domicile or establishment looking to shut you down. Now, if you get all “kapunkle up” “carrying on bad” and your neighbours call 511, that’s all on you. Be forewarned. So bottoms up, here’s to a fun-filled, responsible, safe, and most importantly, socially distant weekend.
THE TRIBUNE
Friday, November 20, 2020, PAGE 9
Virginia got her wish, Santa, can I have mine? YES, Virginia, there really is a Santa Claus. Those few words hold a special place in our holiday vocabulary, cementing deep hope in the face of unwanted reality. How they came to be part of America’s best-known editorial for more than 120 years is a back story set in simpler times but the message of trust vs. threat is as powerful today as it was when an editorial writer penned it for the New York Sun in 1897 in answer to eightyear-old Virginia’s question in a letter to the newspaper saying her friends told her there was no Santa Claus and she wanted to know if there was. “Your friends are wrong,” the editorial stated. “He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! How dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus. It would be as dreary as if
By Diane Phillips
there were no Virginias.” So every year, we think, Virginia, since you got your wish and there really is a Santa Claus, could I be as fortunate as you? For then I could ask him for anything I wanted so long as it was pure and innocent as your question. Aside from the usual material goods, world peace and an end to hunger - what would it be? The first wish is all too obvious – a post-pandemic globe where not even your enemies suffered from a silent, invisible killer against whom they do not have a chance to arm themselves. Closer to home, I’d wish for an end to statelessness
for the thousands of hardworking men and women who fear every time they ride public transportation or go home to a darkened house at night whether they will be safe and have a place to call home in the morning. I’d wish for an end to corruption at every level and a cashless system that makes thieves work that much harder to figure how to ask for, get or give a pay-off. I’d wish for a government that thought long-term about saving resources instead of short-term about providing jobs, and long-term about building a middle class to ensure a strong foundation for the economy with home ownership for more people.
THE ROYAL Victoria grounds across from the post office, above and below.
A TIME FOR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS AS the heavy equipment moved in to prepare for the demolition of the Post Office and make way for the revitalisation of the Shirley Street and East Hill Street area, it might have been tempting to lament the finality of the old Royal Victoria Hotel
and the place it once held in Bahamian cultural life and society. The truth is The Bahamas gave up on the Royal Vic long ago. Yes, it was sad but the real tragedy is what it was allowed to become, to disintegrate and to deteriorate as it did. There are
still small buildings on the site that can never be replicated but here is what it looked like recently. Shame on us. And that brings us to the point that a bad economy makes for the best time to invest in capital improvements. Government House is in desperate need of salvaging before one of the finest architectural treasures goes the way of the old Royal Vic. To those who say this is no time to build sidewalks, I say, there is no better time. Budgets are not a zero-sum game, money saved by not building a sidewalk is not going to find its ways into a fund marked COVID-19 testing. Benefits abound from temporary jobs slicing record high unemployment to bringing long-lasting community improvements. This is the best time, in fact, to build parks. Look at MP Mark Humes’ dream of plans for a dozen parks or more that could transform neighbourhoods, build pride in communities and eradicate derelict areas, a combination known to produce greater pride and less crime. Cleaner, greener places are safer spaces – remember the Be A Hero campaign based on that premise? It was absolutely true and it’s been proven around the world that crime and dirty places hold hands, pride, on the other hand, holds together communities.
I’d wish that citizens and carriageways with medians residents of The Bahamas and roundabouts and side would be heard when they streets all make it feasible cry out against risking the to build tall structures, or waters and in the underdemarine enviveloped Eastern ronment they ‘I’d wish for district where treasure so a an end to low-rise multifew could earn statelessness for family, upscale money from condos would the thousands drilling for oil. be suitable or I’d wish of hard-working in on other citizens and men and islands like residents could Grand Bahama be heard when women who or Abaco where they say they fear every time assisted living do not want a they ride public facilities would high-density, be ideal? high-rise on transportation I’d wish that Love Beach, or go home to a every student that the voices darkened house spent as much of a commutime in school nity singing in at night whether learning about harmony be they will be safe farming and as respected and have a place fishing and as those of a music and art, choir singing to call home in about how in church. Are the morning.’ to manage there not areas an allowance of New Provior balance a dence already dedicated check book, about what to high density, high rise the ageing process is like structures – Cable Beach, or what it means to parent for instance, where dual a child when you are still a
child yourself, as they do about some ancient date in history or a form of mathematics they will be unlikely to use again. I’d wish there was less dependence on government and more dependence on self. I’d wish that successive administrations would stop throwing out what the administration before it did yet insist that it is only right to keep the deals they made. If only we are able to see one of those wishes – a stop to even a whisper about drilling for oil in the most beautiful waters in the world, an Act to give the deserving stateless security, a demand that the National Development Plan be adopted, a new kind of curriculum and teaching suited for the years ahead – just a sign, any sign, that we are not whistling into the wind and we, too, will agree. Your friends were wrong. Yes, Virginia, there really is a Santa Claus.
PAGE 10, Friday, November 20, 2020
OFFICIAL: ITALY TO START COVID VACCINATIONS IN JANUARY MILAN (AP) — A significant number of Italians who want to be vaccinated against COVID-19 should have received their shots by next September, Italy’s special commissioner for the virus emergency said Thursday. Italy is set to receive 3.4 million doses of the Pfizer vaccine in the second half of January through the European Union’s purchase programme, enough to provide the requisite two doses to 1.6 million of Italy’s 60 million people, special commissioner Domenico Arcuri said. He said elderly Italians and individuals with the most risk of exposure would get first priority. “This will be the biggest campaign to administer a vaccine that we can remember, not just in Italy but in all of Europe and many parts of the world,’’ Arcuri said during a news conference in Rome. The commissioner said he expected Pfizer’s authorisation from the European Medical Agency to be completed in time for the first vaccines to be administered in January. He said he was “anxiously awaiting” approvals of other vaccines against the coronavirus so they can be provided to all Italians on a voluntary basis. “We don’t know how many Italians will want to get the vaccine,’’ Arcuri said. ‘”I can say on the basis of forecasts not yet validated, an important part of our population will be able to be vaccinated in the first half of the year, or in any case by the end of the third quarter.” The Italian government, based on the Health Ministry’s recommendations, will inform parliament of the order in which various categories of citizens will receive the doses as they arrive, Arcuri said. Arcuri’s agency plans to open Friday the bidding process for the syringes and needles needed to administer the vaccine. He said three types of syringes and at least six kinds of needles are required. More than 47,800 Italians have died in the pandemic, the second-highest number in Europe after Britain.
THE TRIBUNE
BIDEN CHIDES TRUMP FOR LACK OF COOPERATION ON VACCINE
By STEVE PEOPLES AND WILL WEISSERT ASSOCIATED PRESS
WILMINGTON, Del. (AP) — Joe Biden met Thursday with governors from both parties and criticized President Donald Trump’s unprecedented attempt to block the peaceful transition of power, saying it was hindering the flow of information about programmes to develop a vitally important coronavirus vaccine. He also said he looked forward to bipartisan cooperation that can bolster efforts to slow the pandemic after he takes office. The president-elect reiterated his previous pledges not to institute a nationwide shutdown to curb the virus’s spread and repeated that more states instituting maskwearing mandates could save tens of thousands of lives.
“That’s why I’d like to know exactly what this administration has in mind in terms of their Operation Warp Speed and how they plan it,” he said of the Trump White House. “And that’s what we talked about with the governors today. They all mentioned the need to focus on the communities that have been left behind.” Biden participated from a theatre in Wilmington, Delaware, with Vice President-elect Kamala Harris. Also appearing online were the leaders from his virus task force. He also took questions from reporters and revealed he’d decided on a treasury secretary nomination for his new administration. Biden refused to provide more
PRESIDENT-elect Joe Biden participates in a meeting with the National Governors Association’s executive committee at The Queen theatre, Thursday, in Wilmington, Del. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik) the virus doesn’t care about political divisions. “There’s a real desire for real partnership between the states and the federal government,” Biden said. The president-elect also promised state leaders he would “make sure you get the resources you need ... to beat this virus” and said he would frequently hold similar meetings with governors going forward. Biden vowed to forgo a national shutdown
Conference “Unfortunately, my administration hasn’t been able to get everything we need,” Biden said during a video conference with the National Governors Association’s leadership team, which consists of five Republicans and four Democrats. He specifically cited Operation Warp Speed, the federal government’s partnership with private pharmaceutical companies to develop a COVID-19 vaccine. “We haven’t been able to get into Operation Warp Speed, but we will take what we learned today and build it into our plan,” Biden said in remarks after the meeting, which included Republicans Larry Hogan of Maryland, Asa Hutchinson of Arkansas, Kay Ivey of Alabama, Charlie Baker of Massachusetts and Gary Herbert of Utah. Afterward, Biden spoke about distribution of a vaccine once one is ready, saying, “There has to be a prioritisation.”
VICE President-elect Kamala Harris participates in a meeting with the National Governors Association’s executive committee. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik) details, except to say it was a choice that would satisfy Democrats from across the political spectrum — presumably including outspoken progressives who worried Biden might go for a safer, more moderate selection. Among the Democrats on Thursday’s videoconference was Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan, which has been among the states Trump has targeted for unfounded claims of voter fraud. Biden told those participating that
www.ub.edu.bs
CAREER OPPORTUNITY SENIOR ADMINISTRATION University of The Bahamas extends an invitation for suitably qualified candidates to apply for the position of Vice President and Chief Information Officer. The successful candidate will be responsible for providing innovative vision, planning, strategic direction, technical leadership and operational management of information technology operations, facilities and services in support of the University’s mission and strategic plan especially in planning, prioritizing implementing, assessing and evaluating IT projects, to increase the efficiency of systems and improve the overall performance of the information technology functions at the institution. To read the complete position announcement, visit https://www.ub.edu. bs/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Ad-VP-and-Chief-Information-OfficerOctober-2020.pdf Qualifications include an earned master’s degree from an accredited institution in a relevant technical field; project management experience; and a minimum of ten (10) years of operations experience, five (5) of which must be in senior management, preferably of technical staff. Applicants should submit the following: • A letter of application highlighting work experience and accomplishments relevant to the position; • A curriculum vitae or resume; • Copies of all academic qualifications with transcripts (original transcripts will be required upon employment), certificates; and • The names and contact information of three professional references. Applications should be submitted via hrapply@ub.edu.bs by the deadline of Friday, 27th November 2020 marked: Office of the President University of The Bahamas Oakes Field Campus University Drive P.O. Box N-4912 Nassau, The Bahamas
“because every region, every area, every community can be different,” saying that imposing a countrywide mandate would be “counterproductive.” Instead, Biden noted that 10 governors had imposed statewide mask mandates to combat the virus, calling it a “patriotic duty.” He’s previously vowed to ask all governors to impose such rules and go around holdouts to local and county officials to cover as much of the U.S. as possible. Ivey told participants that both parties in Congress need to come together to provide more coronavirus response funding, according to a readout provided by her office. It
made no mention of the Alabama governor recognising Biden as president-elect. Hogan, by contrast, told The Associated Press recently that Trump’s wild and unsupported claims of widespread voter fraud were “dangerous” and “embarrassing.” “As I said on the day that the president-elect was declared the winner, his election has provided a mandate for cooperation,” Hogan said after the videoconference with Biden. “We look forward to working closely with the Biden-Harris administration as we continue to face this unprecedented global pandemic.” Trump, meanwhile, came out Thursday with a new round of false claims of voter fraud in key states — even as courts continue to reject his challenges. Beyond being a pillar of democracy, the orderly transfer of power after an election is especially critical this year given the extraordinary governing challenges Biden will inherit in just nine weeks. The pandemic is the nation’s worst public health crisis in a century, state and local governments are facing massive budget shortfalls and millions of Americans remain out of work. Hutchison said over the weekend that Biden would be the next president. He also called on the Trump administration to give Biden access to the intelligence briefings he needs to be fully prepared to lead the country on Jan. 20, Inauguration Day. Still, more than two weeks after the Nov. 3 election, the Trump administration is refusing to let Biden receive detailed briefings on national security and pandemic planning. With Trump dug in and Republicans on Capitol Hill largely unwilling to challenge him, Biden has been forced to turn to a diverse collection of outside allies to ratchet
up the pressure on Trump to concede. The CEOs of America’s largest companies have released a statement recognising Biden and Harris as the clear winners. The heads of the American Hospital Association, the American Medical Association and the American Nurses Association issued a joint statement on Tuesday urging the Trump administration to share “all critical information related to COVID-19” with Biden. Not doing so, they warned, would jeopardise American lives.
Vote Trump, meanwhile, has been getting nowhere in the courts, and his scattershot effort to overturn Biden’s victory is shifting toward obscure election boards that certify the vote. The battle is centred in the states that sealed Biden’s win. In Michigan, two Republican election officials in the state’s largest county initially refused to certify results despite no evidence of fraud. The officials then backtracked and voted to certify before flipping again on Wednesday and saying they “remain opposed to certification.” Biden said Thursday that Trump’s refusal to accept the election results has left Americans “witnessing incredible irresponsibility.” “Incredibly damaging messages are being sent to the rest of the world about how democracy functions,” Biden said, adding that Trump’s actions in Michigan were particularly troubling. “What the president’s doing now is going to be another incident where he will go down in history as being one of the most irresponsible presidents,” the president-elect said. ___ Weissert reported from Washington.