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The Tribune OBITUARIES

FNM: REMOVE CAMPBELL NOW

By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter

ebowleg@tribunemedia.net

PRIME Minister’s

wife Ann Marie Davis believes last month’s killing of seven-month pregnant Lauren Saunders amounts to a “double murder” — a view that contrasts with National Security Minister Wayne Munroe’s position that the law does not treat a foetus as a separate life and changing the law could have unintended consequences. Mrs Davis also said yesterday that abortion should be avoided “at all cost” unless a mother’s life is in danger. She spoke at a Zonta Club press conference,

Tribune Chief Reporter

A FURIOUS war of words erupted yesterday as the Free National Movement escalated its campaign to oust Golden Isles Returning Officer Neil Campbell, demanding his immediate removal and declaring him unfit to oversee Monday’s by-election.

The party’s pressure intensified after Mr Campbell told reporters on Tuesday that he regarded Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis as his “adopted father”, a remark the party felt strengthened its claims about his political proximity to the governing party.

FNM Chairman Dr Duane Sands said the admission was a clear conflict of interest and that Mr Campbell is not a fit and proper person to run the by-election. In a letter to Parliamentary Commissioner Harrison Thompson,

‘She’s never coming back’

HINTS

By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net

FOREIGN Affairs

Minister Fred Mitchell appeared to rebuke Ambassador-at-Large Rick Fox yesterday, saying ambassadors serve the government that appoints them and that “the honorable course is clear” if they disagree with the authority that put them in office.

Mr Mitchell made the remarks – implying that Mr Fox should resign – in an audio statement congratulating four newly appointed ambassadors following a November 17 ceremony at Government House. He said he reminded them of

PAIGE BELL pictured with her mother and father Michelle and John Bell. Paige was murdered while working aboard a yacht docked in Harbour Island in July. Her parents speak with The Tribune about the impact the tragedy has had on their lives as the man accused of her death is expected back in court today. See PAGE THREE for story.

FOREIGN AFFAIRS MINISTER FRED MITCHELL

FNM CHAIRMAN Duane Sands.

Daughter’s murder

‘stole our world’

By AVA TURNQUEST

Tribune Digital Editor aturnquest@tribunemedia.net

THE parents of 20-yearold yacht stewardess Paige Bell say they are desperately struggling through a grief that ‘stole their world’ as a man accused in connection with her death is set to appear in court today.

Holding tightly to each other during an emotional call with The Tribune, John and Michelle Bell recounted the moment they learned their daughter had been found dead on a Harbour Island yacht in July — a moment that, months later, has never released them.

“Just pray for us tomorrow,” Mrs Bell said as she wept for her daughter, who was found dead in the engine room of the vessel, just 11 days shy of her 21st birthday. She said whoever was responsible for her daughter’s murder ‘stole our world.’

“All she ever wanted was to turn 21,” added Mrs Bell. “She was so excited but unfortunately she was never given that privilege.” The Bells first learned something was wrong not from Bahamian officials, but from South Africa. Paige’s boyfriend, who worked on the same yacht, alerted his parents he could not reach her. His parents then contacted the Bells with the captain’s number.

“We tried to phone him on three occasions,” Mr Bell said. “He wasn’t answering. Eventually he phoned us and broke the news that there had been an incident.”

At first, they were told it might have been suicide — something neither parent believed possible.

“I was in disbelief, it was not even a question,” Mrs Bell said.

Mr Bell added: “I said to the captain that’s not who Paige was. She would never do that. We know our daughter.”

About an hour later came the second call confirming their worst fears.

“The doctor had to be called to sedate me,” Mrs Bell said. “I was in denial. I just said, ‘No, no, no, no, not my little girl.’ I kept saying to John, ‘She’s going to phone, you’ll see.’”

Paige usually called her mother every morning before work, it was a ritual that kept them connected despite the thousands of miles between The Bahamas and South Africa.

“That morning was the first time she didn’t call,” Mrs Bell said. She later learned the crew had spent their lunch break discussing Paige’s 21st birthday plans.

“The theme was gonna be Pearls and Prosecco… that was so Paige, she was elegance, and she was class.”

Months later, acceptance still comes only in waves.

“With me, it only sank in two weeks ago when I realised she was never coming back,” Mrs Bell said.

Mr Bell added: “It’s my job as a father and a husband, you have to be strong for your family. But it’s not easy, still grieving.”

The Bells could barely

speak without breaking down, the weight of their loss pressing in with each memory of their youngest child...their “firecracker”... their baby girl.

Paige was Mr Bell’s only biological child and fourand-a-half years younger than her sister Chelsey Jacobs, Mrs Bell's daughter from a previous marriage.

Mr Bell tenderly recalled chats about watching their favourite English football team, Liverpool, and music nights where he insisted she jam the classics like the Red Hot Chili Peppers and the way they would rap along to Eminem songs.

“She was my pride and joy," he choked through tears, "I was so proud of the young woman she had become, she was just so determined, and she was just perfect.”

Mrs Bell painted a picture of a girl who never did anything halfway and was impossible to ignore.

“She was so determined. Nothing was ever good enough for her – in her mind. She would study for hours on end and still feel her results weren’t good enough,” she said.

“Her personality was just remarkable. She would walk into a room that was dead quiet and it was like a firecracker had gone off. She just lit up every room. She moved at a thousand miles a second. And it was just her determination and positivity to get things done and to do good, and positivity.”

The Bells have endured multiple losses over the

“She was my pride and joy. I was so proud of the young woman she had become, she was just so determined, and she was just perfect.”

past year. Mrs Bell lost both her ex-husband and her father in May, just a day apart. Paige returned home last August to stand as maid of honour in her sister Chelsey’s wedding.

Mrs Bell said her eldest daughter is "battling terribly".

“[Chelsey] dreams of her sister every night," she said, "and, you know, as a mom, you want to protect your children. And I can't fix my daughter's heart, because I can't fix my own."

Back home, the family’s community has rallied around them.

“Our community have been incredible – and worldwide, the outpouring of love has been amazing,” Mrs Bell said.

Friends have organised a vigil today and a local Irish restaurant, asking people to wear yellow, Paige’s favourite colour rose.

“It’s a show of support and that Paige’s life mattered,” Mr Bell said.

Paige had worked tirelessly to enter yachting, completing her qualifications in South Africa before heading to the United States.

“It cost us a lot,” Mrs Bell said. “Crew housing is expensive, and she didn’t have the means. At that time, thank God, we could help. But she paid back every single cent. Every day’s work she got, she sent money home.

“She even did a calendar. She was so proud when she told us she was debt free. She had actually made a payment to us the night

before she passed.

And we said please it's your 21st in a couple of days. She said no, she insisted because she would do payments every month. That was her – we never expected that from her but she was just the most incredible soul. She was adamant that she was going to pay us back.”

But her path into the industry was not smooth. Her first job in 2023 nearly led to her being trafficked, her parents said. A South African captain intervened and returned her to Fort Lauderdale, after which she regrouped and tried again.

“As tiny as she was, she was tough,” Mrs Bell said. By last summer, Paige had secured a position on the yacht Far From It and had just been promoted to second stewardess, due to start August 1. Although she loved her work, she struggled with homesickness.

“With the time difference, I lived in two time zones,” Mrs Bell said. “I would often help her cook for the crew… or go for a walk on the beach, and I didn’t mind for a second. But I just feel there needs to be more [mental health support] available to them.”

The Bells had planned to meet Paige in Fort Lauderdale in December.

They travelled to The Bahamas once to collect her belongings, arrange her cremation and return home. They say they have received little information since because the matter is before the courts.

They plan to follow today’s hearing from South Africa and return to The Bahamas if the case proceeds to sentencing.

“Tomorrow is just the plea,” Mr Bell said. “What has been done is the most heinous thing you can do. Hopefully we can state our case to the judge… we want to explain what this has done to our lives.”

“This has destroyed us,” he said.

- John Bell father

ACCUSED RETURNS TO COURT TODAY

A MAN will appear in court today charged with the murder of 20-year-old yacht stewardess Paige Bell. Police charged 39-yearold Mexican national Brigido Munoz, of Monterrey, with Ms Bell’s murder. He was arraigned before Chief Magistrate Roberto Reckley and was remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services on July 9. Munoz was not required to enter a plea and will return

today for a Voluntary Bill of Indictment (VBI). He was informed of his right to apply for bail through the Supreme Court.

South African Ms Bell, a stewardess on the 43-metre charter yacht Far From It, was discovered in the vessel’s engine room shortly after 1pm on July 3. Police found her with injuries to her neck and arms. A man, also a crew member, was found nearby with serious arm wounds and taken into custody.

The Bahamas Branch of The British Legion Special edition was schedule for today’s paper, however the new publication date will be Thursday November 27th.

PAIGE BELL

FAR FROM IT , the yacht on which Paige Bell was allegedly murdered.

FROM LEFT: John Bell, Michelle Bell, Chelsey Jacobs and Paige Bell.

Sands warns democracy is at stake over ‘serious concerns’ on integrity of advanced polls

Dr Sands called for Mr Campbell’s removal.

“While he ought to have recused himself voluntarily, we now must request that he be removed from his role and replaced with a more suitable public officer,” he said.

Dr Sands told reporters yesterday that this “was as partisan as it gets” and asked why the opposition should be expected to accept that Mr Campbell will now act impartially.

“I don’t think so,” he said, arguing that such a conflict would never be tolerated elsewhere, “so why should we allow it?”

The Progressive Liberal Party hit back swiftly, condemning his remarks as an effort built on “fear and distortion” and accusing the opposition of attempting to mislead Bahamians and undermine confidence in the electoral system.

The party said the FNM’s attacks were an excuse for its own shortcomings and an attempt to paint a narrative of a “broken system” when “it is their party that is broken.”

The PLP said it would not allow the opposition to smear public servants, intimidate workers, or damage trust in the

voting process. Their response was reinforced by National Security Minister Wayne Munroe, who defended the parliamentary registration department’s handling of Monday’s advance poll while criticising the opposition’s reaction. He said the Royal Bahamas Defence Force will assist police to ensure a peaceful process for Monday’s vote and is under instruction to maintain order if any group attempts to disrupt the proceedings. Dr Sands warned that democracy is at stake, saying the process must not only be fair and impartial but must also be seen that way. He said this standard was even more critical

given “serious concerns” raised about the integrity of the advance poll.

Monday’s poll ended in confrontation after FNM and Coalition of Independents supporters blocked the removal of ballot boxes, accusing officials of violating an agreement on how the boxes would be transported. Parliamentary registration department officials have since insisted the advance poll was conducted lawfully and that all agents witnessed and signed off on the sealing of the boxes.

Mr Campbell, meanwhile, has strongly denied any improper conduct. He said his personal relationships have never influenced his work, noting that he is also

related to senior opposition figures. He pointed out that FNM Leader Michael Pintard is his cousin and that he grew up with FNM candidate

Brian Brown. “What I choose is like every other Bahamian. They have the right of choice. No one could say how I act professionally, because, regardless

of where I am, I have an oath just like anybody who will even take the prime minister’s office. They have an oath to serve everyone,” Mr Campbell said.

Spence Finlayson hosting ‘Pathways to Destiny’ seminar later this month

INTERNATIONAL

motivational speaker

Spence Finlayson is hosting an event, ‘Pathways to Destiny Motivational Seminar,’ in New Providence on November 28 at the Cancer Society of the Bahamas.

The event, anticipated to draw close to 100 attendees, marks another milestone in Mr Finlayson’s 40-year career that spans more than 4,000 presentations in over 20 countries, inspiring audiences across the Caribbean and beyond.

At $299, participants can expect to receive catered lunch and ‘dynamic and energizing sessions designed to spark transformation, build consistency, and strengthen personal and professional growth.’

The seminar runs from

12.30pm to 4.30pm. There will be appearances by two featured guest presenters, Corlette Deveaux, CEO of RM2.AI; and Bishop Dr Tresor D Rahming, Vice President and Senior Pastor of Infinite Works Fellowship. Participants can also expect engagement from Mr Finlayson, whose signature sessions are known for their high energy and interaction. Mr Finlayson believes the seminar is uniquely positioned to help people step confidently into a new season. “This is a landmark event,” he says. “It’s the perfect time to set your goals for 2026. You can’t wait until January to start planning. Success takes preparation.”

Mr Finlayson said that productivity is a major issue in the Bahamian workplace.

He believes consistency is key. “A lot of people want to do great things, but they don’t know how to keep going,” Mr Finlayson said. He sees this not only in aspiring speakers but also in everyday workplaces, where disengagement is widespread.

“We have a big problem with productivity in The Bahamas,” he said. “Many people are physically at work but not really contributing.” The result is a national productivity challenge he believes can be reversed through renewed purpose, enthusiasm, and clarity.

Mr Finlayson has been the host of Immediate Response on ZNS for the last four years. Tracing his calling back to 1987, he says he enjoys what he does and that the gift to motivate others is “a gift from God.” Since then, his work has taken him across the Caribbean — from St Croix to Aruba — training organisations in leadership, customer service, personal development, and productivity. Along the way, he has witnessed firsthand how a single message can shift a person’s trajectory.

FNM CHAIRMAN DR DUANE SANDS

GOLDEN ISLES RETURNING OFFICER NEIL CAMPBELL

‘Ambassadors represent the government in office’

long-standing diplomatic practice.

“I made the following comments: all ambassadors resign once the general election confirms a new government, even if it is the same political party. An ambassador, of course, during his time, represents the government in office, and no one has to tell him to resign for what he says or believes.”

He continued: “If that ambassador has a difference of opinion with the appointing authority, the honorable course is clear to those ambassadors in those circumstances. We don’t have to repeat that or tell that to an honorable person.”

The comments followed a public post from Mr Fox, the former NBA star appointed Ambassador-at-Large, who pushed back at Progressive Liberal Party supporters claiming he should not comment on the Golden Isles by-election because of his diplomatic role.

In that Facebook post, he noted that “a sitting ambassador with a portfolio is openly endorsing a candidate while currently running for office himself” — a reference to non-resident Ambassador Sebas Bastian, who is contesting the Fort Charlotte seat.

Mr Fox said he serves the Bahamian people, not a political party, and rejected the argument that ambassadors must remain silent during an election cycle. He said “silly season” expectations ran counter to the guidance he received when he accepted the post, adding that “If that ever becomes the expectation,” the prime minister “can call me in and ask for my resignation

directly.” Mr Fox said he was recently advised to seek clarification about what he is “allowed” to say as an ambassador, a suggestion he described as unexpected. He insisted no

one had ever told him the role required limits on his public commentary. He added that he has represented The Bahamas internationally for more than 30 years, long before receiving any formal

diplomatic title. Earlier this month, Mr Fox, who has hinted he is considering entering frontline politics, mocked politicians for showing up “as Action Heroes” only when elections

Jury convicts man of murder and attempted murder

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter

pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A JURY yesterday found Donte “Drey” Deveaux guilty of the murder of Emmanuel Brown and the attempted murder of Samuel Joseph, whom he shot on Seventh Street in 2022. Prosecutors said Deveaux, 28, shot and killed 34-year-old Emmanuel “Manny” Brown and tried to kill Samuel “Fish” Joseph during a shooting at

a Seventh Street, Coconut Grove carwash on the night on May 2, 2022.

Joseph testified that Deveaux had borrowed $10 from him earlier that night. He said he was later shot as he tried to leave after paying the money back. Joseph told the court he felt Deveaux press a gun to his temple before he was shot four times, suffering injuries to his jaw and eye.

Before dying, Brown reportedly told Officer Sands that “Drey” shot

him and begged officers not to let him die.

Deveaux denied any involvement in the incident, telling police in his record of interview that he was with his girlfriend at the time of the shooting.

After two hours of deliberation, a jury returned 8-1 guilty verdicts on both counts before Justice Jeannine Weech-Gomez.

Before the verdict was delivered, Justice WeechGomez told jurors that Deveaux had no prior

convictions and was of good character up to that point.

Following the verdict, Deveaux stood silently as he was remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services.

Defence attorney Dr K Melvin Munroe requested a probation report to assist with sentencing.

Deveaux is scheduled to return to court on January 29, 2026 for the start of sentencing proceedings.

Calnan Kelly, Tenielle Bain, and Timothy Bailey prosecuted the case.

are near. In a Halloween-themed post, he said the “real scare” was that “someone had to die and a by-election had to be called before a single pothole got filled and a single road got paved” in

Golden Isles. “Why,” he asked, “does it take tragedy to spark progress in our country?” adding that “I never see my MP” was the most common complaint he hears from Bahamians.

PLP CHAIRMAN FRED MITCHELL

AMBASSADOR-AT-LARGE RICK FOX

The Tribune Limited

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“Being Bound to Swear to The Dogmas of No Master”

LEON E. H. DUPUCH,

Publisher/Editor 1903-1914

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Publisher/Editor 1919-1972

Contributing Editor 1972-1991

RT HON EILEEN DUPUCH CARRON, C.M.G., M.S., B.A., LL.B.

Publisher/Editor 1972-

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A resignation is correct next step

RICK Fox has been a figurehead for many Bahamians over the years. His sporting achievements as an NBA star made him a household name both near and far. His business endeavours in recent years have been eye-catching.

That combination of talents earned him an appointment as an ambassador-at-large – although frankly his voice has been somewhat muted in that role. We cannot recall much of his comments in that capacity in the public realm.

However, he has taken of late to speak up on election-related issues – and that runs directly against what an ambassadorial appointee should be doing.

That yesterday earned what seems to be a rebuke from the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Fred Mitchell, who knows a thing or two about what should be expected from ambassadors. It’s Fox vs Fox Hill.

And Mr Mitchell is right.

“An ambassador, of course, during his time, represents the government in office, and no one has to tell him to resign for what he says or believes. If that ambassador has a difference of opinion with the appointing authority, the honourable course is clear to those ambassadors in those circumstances. We don’t have to repeat that or tell that to an honourable person.”

The implication is clear – if Mr Fox is not content with his situation, he can hand in his resignation.

There should be a clear distinction for those in public office between acting for the country and acting for a political party.

Mr Fox ha been appointed as an ambassador, not as a cheerleader, and should act accordingly.

For his part, Mr Fox has rejected the suggestion that ambassadors should remain silent during an election cycle. Quite why he feels he should not follow tradition when others who have served in such roles with dignity over the years have respected the process is unexplained.

Of late, Mr Fox has made noises that suggest he has been considering a political future. He has taken to criticising some politicians for their behaviour, including showing up only when elections are near and saying that the main criticism he hears from Bahamians is that “I never see my MP”. That may be so, but we are not sure what it has to do with his ambassadorial role.

Mr Fox does have one good point to make, however, which is that another ambassador, Sebas Bastian, continues to hold that role despite having been selected as a candidate and who is openly contesting the Fort Charlotte seat.

Mr Fox said “a sitting ambassador with a portfolio is openly endorsing a candidate while currently running for office himself”.

The former NBA star clearly has strong opinions – and that is a good thing. He is more than entitled to share them – but he should not do so while still bearing the title of ambassador.

That title should be occupied by someone who does not openly favour one side or the other, who stays apolitical, at least when it comes to matters of election campaigning.

Indeed, one wonders why, if Mr Fox is at odds with this administration’s handling of matters, he would wish to keep the title anyway.

He is far from alone in having had issues discerning what he should or should not do in his role – but these traditions exist for a reason.

We do not want to see such guidelines eroded – to end up with uniformed officers siding with one political side or another, or public servants openly being rewarded for campaign support.

Keeping a distance from the political process exists for a reason – not just here, but around the world. That reason should be respected – and if one cannot abide by it? Hand in your resignation and speak freely.

Child safety is non-negotiable

EDITOR, The Tribune.

NOVEMBER 18th, is recognised as World Day for the Prevention and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation, serves as a powerful reminder of one of our most urgent shared responsibilities: protecting our children. This day not only honors the survivors of exploitation, but also calls us to continue the vital work of prevention and vigilance. Child sexual exploitation is not something that happens only in distant places—it can and does occur in our own communities. Our organisation is committed to empowering adults with the knowledge and tools needed to prevent these harms. Prevention is not a single moment or conversation; it is a daily commitment. Exploitation takes many forms, including online grooming, manipulation, and predatory behavior that may be difficult to detect.

Parents and guardians must take proactive steps to safeguard children, especially in today’s digital world. Every device used by a minor should have appropriate parental controls or active adult oversight. It is essential to teach children never to accept gifts, money, or favors from adults without a parent or guardian present. Children also need age-appropriate guidance about grooming and exploitation so they understand that, unfortunately, not every adult has good intentions. Many children assume trust where it is not deserved, which leaves them vulnerable to man manipulation. We cannot afford to be unaware—our homes, schools, and communities can become unsafe if vigilance is lacking. While many adults are trustworthy, the reality is that predators are increasingly sophisticated and often target children in places

PICTURE OF THE DAY

Growth, not change, is needed

EDITOR, The Tribune.

THE word “change” has become the defining mantra of our Bahamian political discourse. It is the promise emblazoned on every manifesto, the rallying cry of every candidate, and the desperate plea echoing from the pages of your newspaper and radio station to the comments sections of every social media page. The prevailing sentiment is one of stagnation, a collective sigh that change has, in my words, “crashed to happen.”

This, we must assert, are a fundamental misdiagnosis of our national condition.

Change is not absent. It is a constant, relentless, and neutral force. The economy shifts, global pressures mount, our social fabric evolves - and yes, garbage heaps grow and traffic congestion worsens. These are all changes. But they are not what we seek. What the people of The Bahamas are truly yearning for, what we feel in our bones is missing, is not change, but growth. Our national failure lies in conflating the two.

where they should feel safe: schools, churches, daycares, and online spaces. This is why parents and guardians must stay informed about their children’s daily interactions, whereabouts, and caregivers. Whether at daycare, school, or community activities, we must remain attentive and engaged.

This message is a call to action. Protecting children requires more than awareness—it demands active involvement, daily vigilance, and strong community cooperation.

Let November 18th remind us that prevention and healing are essential responsibilities. Together, we can ensure that every child grows up safe, protected, and free from exploitation.

Shervonne Cash Hollis, Save Our Children Alliance.

SHERVONNE CASH HOLLIS

Nassau, November 19, 2025.

Change is the current; growth is the skill to sail upon it. Change happens to us; growth is what we accomplish within ourselves and our communities in response.

We have been sold a mirage. Politicians speak of change as if it is a switch they can flip, an external event they will bestow upon us. But this is a fantasy that absolves the citizen of responsibility and empowers the leader with false omnipotence.

The change we have seen has too often been the growth of negatives - the growth of debt, the growth of blight, the growth of public distrust - overshadowing the positive strides made because the contrast is so stark and painful. This is because we have pursued change without the foundational element of growth.

Therefore, we must adopt a new, more potent national mantra. We must revise the old call to action. It is no longer enough to “change the world” by starting with the “man in the mirror.”

The mandate for our time is to pursue growth with intentionality:

Grow self. Grow your home. Encourage growth in your neighborhood.

Assist with growth in your community. Encourage growth in the country. Watch the contagion of growth in the region.

This progression moves us from passive hope to active cultivation. It begins with the irreducible unit of national progress: the individual. We must grow in our skills, our integrity, our financial literacy, and our compassion. A nation cannot rise above the character of its people.

From this grounded self, we nurture our families - creating homes where respect, education, and love are paramount. This domestic stability is the bedrock of national stability.

This philosophy demands a radical transformation in how we select our leaders.

The era of voting based on surname, charismatic oration, or grandiose, unsubstantiated promises must end. Our new litmus test must be tangible, participatory, and visible growth.

Nothing in nature grows without evidence. You do not need a government report to tell you a mango tree is thriving; you see its leaves, its flowers, its fruit. Conversely, you do not need an official to announce that the local dump is expanding; the stench and the sight are proof enough. We must apply the same brutal honesty to our politics.

A candidate who seeks to represent a constituency must be judged on the “garbage heaps” they have cleaned up and the “orchards” they have planted within that very community. Their right to represent should not be a birthright but a biography written in the soil of the place they wish to serve. If an individual has not been a participatory “part of the family” in the communityif their record of growth is not visible there - then they should seek to represent

where their growth has actually occurred.

Representation is not an entitlement; it is a privilege earned through demonstrable investment and local, grassroots labour.

We must look for leaders who have grown something more than their bank accounts. We must seek those who have grown small businesses, grown youth clubs, grown neighborhood watch associations, grown community gardens, and grown civic engagement long before they ever decided to run for office. Their campaign should simply be a highlight reel of the growth they have already fostered, not a gallery of promises for a change they may never deliver. Furthermore, our communities must internalise this ethos. We cannot sit idly by, waiting for a messiah from the outside to descend upon us with the gift of “change.” The power for our renewal lies within. We must foster our own seeds of leadership, mentor our own young talent, and hold them accountable to a standard of service that is proven, not promised.

We must become the architects of our own growth, creating an environment where positive development is organic and self-sustaining. The Bahamian people are not disillusioned with change; we are disillusioned with the lack of purposeful growth amidst the relentless and often chaotic tide of change. Let us, therefore, shift our national conversation. Let us stop chanting for change and start cultivating growth. Let us begin with ourselves, demand it from our neighbors, and insist upon it from those who seek to lead us. Our future prosperity and peace depend not on a cry for change, but on our relentless, collective, and unwavering pursuit of growth.

A citizen seeking a mandate of growth over the mirage of change.

RABBI COMMON ZENSE

Freeport, Grand Bahama November 19, 2025.

A CURLY tailed lizard catches some sunshine

Photo: Uryadnikov Sergey

PM’s wife believes abortion should be reserved ‘for a life or death situation’

saying she believed Saunders’ unborn child was far enough along to be considered a person.

Saunders’ body was found in bushes off Munnings Road on October 19.

“If it’s a foetus, it’s really a child — well that’s my opinion,” Mrs Davis said yesterday. “So I think that’s a double murder, in my opinion, because once the child is developed into a foetus, that becomes a living human being.”

Mrs Davis said she had not read the Protection Against Violence Act yet believed without evidence that it may touch on whether double homicide can apply. She emphasised Saunders’ stage of pregnancy.

“She was seven months pregnant. A lot of babies are born, mature babies are born at six, seven months. So that was just about a fully grown child, that’s very sad. It’s like killing a baby.”

The case has again drawn attention to the country’s abortion laws, particularly the gap between public sentiment about foetal life and the legal framework that prevents a murder charge in such circumstances.

Mrs Davis said her

personal position was that abortion should not occur unless the mother’s life is in jeopardy. “Abortion, I think you should avoid that at all cost, even if you in college,” she said. “I know a lot of people who have had their babies and continue college and graduated, and everything is fine, but we really should not end a life. We really should not unless it’s a threat to your health or it’s a life or death situation.”

Earlier this week, Mr Munroe said the law does not classify a foetus as a separate life for the purposes of murder and that murder applies only when someone with independent circulation is killed, with foetal death treated as abortion under the law.

He noted that prosecutors can still consider all circumstances when laying charges and noted that the death penalty remains an option.

He also cautioned that expanding the murder statute to include unborn children could have unintended consequences, including criminalising medical terminations.

“When people talk about it, a lot of the women’s groups that talk about it don’t mention that in the South American countries,

where it would be two murders if a woman miscarries, often she is charged with murder,” he said. “You have to be careful when you engage changes in the law that you understand the full ramifications.”

While Bahamian law

does not recognise the killing of an unborn child as murder, several other jurisdictions take a different approach. In the United States, for example, federal law under the Unborn Victims of Violence Act allows prosecutors to charge

offenders separately for the death of a foetus if a pregnant woman is killed or injured. Nearly 40 states have their own “foetal homicide” or “feticide” statutes that permit similar dual charges. Australia’s

Queensland state also criminalises the unlawful killing of an unborn child as a distinct offence, while countries like El Salvador have some of the world’s harshest laws, where the killing of a foetus could result in a murder charge.

ANN MARIE DAVIS speaks during a press conference on 16 Days of Activism to end violence against women and girls at the Office of

The Spouse of the Prime Minister, yesterday.

Photos: Nikia Charlton

The sad decline, but continued promise of Arawak Cay

ARAWAK CAY and Fish Fry began withgreat promise. Someofthepromisedwasfulfilled, with Bahamians flocking tothe venuefor down home Bahamian food and cultural events.

The highly successful Fish FryatArawak Caywasthe creationof aFreeNational Movement administration. Theideawas tocreateaBahamianfood andentertainment experiencefor Bahamiansand visitorsthat would generate significant cultural andeconomic benefits.

Many had their favourite hauntsfor fellowship,eats, and revelry.Bahamians repeatedlytook theiroverseas gueststhere. TheMinistryof Tourism and othershosted a broadshowcase ofevents drawing thousands.Nearby Junkanoo practicessuffused the area witha certain drumbeat and vibe.

Many businesses did well selling Bahamian seafoodand side dishes, drinks, desserts, and other treats.

Once upon atime, the Fish Fryat ArawakCay, asenvisioned by such artists and imagineers as Jackson Burnside andothers, wasplanned and intended to become a heartbeat of Bahamian cuisine, cultureand entertainment thatincluded acalendar of events and celebrations.

Thisincluded “Junkanoo in June,” the “Great Bahamas Seafood Festival, and other forms of entertainment such as rake n scrape. Suddenly, there were celebrity chefs and other luminariesvisiting ArawakCay, receivingsubstantial international publicity.

Still,the seedsof thedeclineofFishFryweregerminatingfromitsinception.Many of the grander plans for con-

struction and governance, a number of which are still in thefilesat theMinistryof

trenched dysfunctionof government.Overtime,therewas illegal building, leases unpaid, health and safety standards ignored, andother symptoms of decline. Despite themarketing hype,Arawak Caywasno longer world classin the hearts and mindsof many Bahamians. Itbecame afilthy, unhealthy, smelly, dilapidated, anddangerous place.It became a symbol of the decrepitudeanddeclineofmuch of New Providence.

Yearsafter thecreationof FishFry, manyBahamians now take theirpersonal visitorstooneofthetwomegaresorts, Atlantis orBaha Mar, insteadof downtownNassau or Fish Fry.

It shouldembarrass usas a nationthat itis theforeignownedhotels insteadofthe

How do we now overcome this loss and fulfil the early dreams and unrealized promise of what should be a prime food and cultural venue?

Tourism, wereignored, never realized. Fish Fry succumbedto severalofthedeadlybadhabitsof our social cultureand the en-

ernments were not offering proper oversight of the venue, which keptexpanding ina ramshackle manner.

Many existing establishmentsdidnot havetoworry about leasepayments, aslong as they had the right governmentcontacts.Quiteanumber had not payattention to any buildingcodes norany ofthe required health,sanitation, and firestandards. Theyalso could employundocumented staff with impunity in their kitchens andfor cleaningbecause they couldholdthem hostageon wages,salaries, and other terms and conditions.

Withfew notableexceptions,the FishFry atArawak Cay becamea raceto the bottom inenvironmental conditions and service quality.

Bahamian-owned venues that aresafer,betterorganized,and clean. Itbecameincreasinglyclear soonaftertheestablishmentof Fish Fry, thatsuccessive gov-

There aretoo manystories ofbuildings erectedat ArawakCay thatwerestarted simplywith theencouragementofa MemberofParliament. Lease agreementsand other prerequisitesbe damned. Manyowners with the lowest-of-the-required approvals were suddenly the most belligerent,daring owners ofthe better-established facilitiesto report them.

“Gresham's Law” isa monetaryprinciple ineconomics that states ‘bad money’ drives out good[money]. Aform of Gresham’s Law took over at FishFry, withthe baddriving out the good.

ThefireatFish Fryisasad event.Many havelosttheir businesses and livelihoods.

How do wenow overcome this lossand fulfilthe early dreams and unrealized promise ofwhat shouldbe a prime foodand cultural venue?

Whatis requiredisthe qualityof jointpublicand privateleadership thatcombines vision,planning, discipline, and oversightthat can give birth tosomething beautiful rising from the ashes of thefire.Allofthisisatallask, given the slack mindsets and poorvaluesofmuchofoursocial culture and manyof our politicalleadersandpublicofficers.

One lessonthat weshould

have learnt over the past approximately35 yearsisthat the governmentneeds toget outofthe ArawakCaymanagement business exceptas landowner.

Arawak Cay stands in juxtapositiontowhatweseehappening nearly directly across from JunkanooBeach on Paradise Island.The GovernmentofTheBahamasdecided that instead of developing Arawak Cay, it would allow cruise passengersto dockin Nassau and avoid Arawak Cay and the Western Esplanade,by enjoyingthemselves in the cruise ship’s private RoyalCaribbean enclave.

Thisishelpingtoaccelerate thedeteriorationofcruisepassenger spending downtown, onJunkanoo Beach,and Arawak Cay.

Now cruise ships are earningrevenue aboardtheir shipsand earningmoneyon the land onParadise Island, moneythat wouldhaveotherwisebeen deliveredtoBahamian establishments on Nassau. But, most of all, cruise passengersavoid being exposed tothe deteriorating conditions of Arawak Cay.

To compound the problem, cruise ships donot stay any longerinto theeveningat Prince George Dock, once the very time of day when Arawak Cayreally came alive. By4:00 pm,downtown Nassau is dead.

Less shoppingdowntown. Less visits tothe Straw Marketandotherretailexperiences.Fewertours.Fewervisitors walking from the Port to Junkanoo Beachand Arawak Cay.

Cynics might suggest that allowing the deterioration of JunkanooBeach toArawak Cay, allowing the establishmentof competingcruiseexperiences on Paradise Island, andcurtailingthe timeinport for cruise ships were deliberate attempts todecimate the earningsof Bahamiansbusinesses tothe benefitof cruise lines.

Astarker realityislikely thegreed,capitulation,incompetence, and limitedvisionof

certain Bahamiangovernment officials,who lacktheboldness and willpower to transform Arawak Cay,Fish Fry, Western Esplanade, Fort Charlotte,the BotanicalGardens, and downtown.

Thisprime ministerand other prime ministersand Bahamian leaders have spoken incessantly ofthe needfor greater Bahamian ownership of tourism venuesand services. Many agree.

Then, why is it that a succession ofgovernments has failedtoensure thatwhatis already state-ownedis beautiful, worldclass, properly regulated, wellrun, clean,and properly maintained!?

Why is it thatthemajorhotels can offer a safeand clean environment whileour local culturalvenuesanddowntown continues to look like crap?

Why is it thatsimplethings likethebarriers ontheroad, the entrancesto FishFry, and the low-lying whitespikes in theground withtheblack chains running alongside Goodman’sBay cannotberefurbished or redone?

How is it thatwe cantake pride inwhat BahaMar and Atlantis have tooffer, but show no-to-little pridein Bahamian-cum-state-owned venues?

Is theanswer tothese questionsin greatpart anadmission thatforeigners havea greatercommitment to,and sense of, howbeautiful, magical, andwell-maintained thingscan bein TheBahamas?

Why does Oranjestad, the capitalof Aruba,putNassau to shame in terms of much of its downtownand tourist areas?

Untilweanswerthesequestionsseriously, unlearnsome ofour worstcultural andgovernmental habits, andfindthe necessary leadership, the redevelopment of Fish Fry will be piecemeal and unrealized, with thearea deteriorating again just likemuch of New Providence.

There is an alternative. Can weseize theopportunity to reimagine and rethinkthecontinuedpromiseof Arawak Cay and Fish Fry?

Photo: Dante Carrer

Presidents and possibilities for The Bahamas

HYPOTHETICAL dialogue betweenJames Monroe andYanJiarong mightbeintriguing.It mightalsoshed somelight onwhat s happeningwith graduallyincreasingintensity tooursouth and east.

Monroe, thefifth president of the United States (181725), wasthe lastof thesocalled founding fathers of theAmerican republicto serve as president.His tenure wasnot especiallydistinguished, butone particular foreign policy proclamation has livedon forover 200 years.

That sthe MonroeDoctrine, a United States foreign policy positionfirst enunciated in 1823 thatopposed Europeancolonialism inthe WesternHemisphere.Itsbasic thesisis thatanyintervention in thepolitical affairsof the Americasbyforeignpowersis a potentiallyhostile act against the United States. During thepast twocenturies, Americanpresidents have intermittentlyreferred to the MonroeDoctrine when they have in mind some kind of interventionin theinternal

affairs of another nation in the Western Hemisphere – South America, Central America, or the Caribbean. Backin theearly19th Century, the Monroe Doctrine aimedtodiscourageEuropean adventurism inthe Western Hemisphere,and itsprimary intended addresseewas the UK. The British, still stinging after losing their lucrative Americancoloniesnotsolong before,were busywithmaintenanceand developmentof the world s largest empire and were knownto beeyeing potential alternative targets in America’s back yard. The US was in no practical position to enforce the Monroe Doctrinewhen itwas promulgated. Now,we will see ifand howthat has changed. That s whereYan Jiarong comesin. She’s the Chinese ambassadorto TheBahamas. Here’s some ofwhat she had to say inThe Tribune earlier this week: “The Bahamianswho have visited China recognised broadpotential forcooperation indirect trade,new energy vehicles,food security,

digital economy,and disaster prevention and mitigation. BothChina andTheBahamas firmly supportmultilateralism, uphold international trade orderand rules,and share aligned goalsin promoting sustainable development and jointly addressing global challenges.

China will advance deep reforms andhigh-standard opening up withgreater intensity, focusingon thefollowing major objectives: high-quality development; scientific andtechnological self-reliance and strength; deepening reform;cultural andethicalprogress;improvements of livelihood; green growth.”

Most observersnow acknowledge that although Russia remainsa formidable adversary tothe US,their biggestrivalisChina.Moving aggressively duringthe first

quarterofthiscentury,Beijing hasbecomethesecondoverall leading trade partner with Latin America,and is South America stop tradingpartner and a majorsource of both foreign directinvestment and energy and infrastructure lending, includingthrough its massive Belt and Road Initiative.”

China srole inLatin America and the Caribbean hasgrown rapidlysincethe turn of thecentury, promising economicopportunitybutalso raising concerns over Beijing’s influence,” according tothe prestigious American Council of Foreign Relations. “China’s state firms are majorinvestors in the region’senergy, infrastructure, and space industry.

To manyobservers, that’s thecontext forwhat s going onthesedayswiththeUSand Venezuela. WhileNicolas Maduro remains in charge in Caracas, hisleading opponent justwon theNobelPeace Prize, andthe USis actively building up its military presencein andsouth ofPuerto Rico.Thedeath tollfromits bombingofcivilianwatercraft hasnow reachedanestimated 83persons.And nowthatthe USS GeraldR Ford,the world’s largestaircraft carrier, has arrived on station in the region,wecananticipatemore sabre rattling and menacing language from US president Donald Trump.

China and Russia have both been outspoken insupport of Venezuela recently, with Russia reportedly supplying some militaryassistance and China focusingon economic aid.Butthegrowingantipathy betweenMaduro andTrump presents an occasion for both Russia andChina toflex their diplomatic muscles,potentially embarrassing the US and opportunistically stirring things up in our hemisphere.

America’s political,economic andmilitary positionis exponentially different now thanit was200 yearsago under JamesMonroe, andfew wouldarguethat theUSlacks themeans toenforcethe Monroe Doctrine. Indeed, Trump s increasingattention tothe WesternHemisphere has ledpundits torefer tohis regionalpolicy asthe Donroe Doctrine.’ Nonetheless,weandourregionalneighbours woulddo well to heed the Chinese ambassador s recent letterto The Tribune.The Chineseseemto

beheretostay,andtheirambitions inthis regionforetell a continuing dialecticwith the US thatcould eitherplace us inan uncomfortableposition between these two global titans, give us some tactical leverage that could invite supportfrom bothgiants toour benefit, or both.

Weshouldall wishfordiplomaticstrategies fromthis and future Bahamian governmentsthat willleadus tonavigate thecontinuing rivalry betweentheUS andChinafor our nation’s benefit.

Itmightjustbethemostimportantchallenge facingour present and future leaders.

Meanwhile, backin Wash-

America’s political, economic and military position is different now than it was 200 years ago.

ington, Trump is,well, carryingon beingTrump.He hosteda galadinner atthe WhiteHouse thisweek tocelebratethe firstvisit toWashingtonsince hisfirst termin 2018ofSaudiArabia sCrown Prince andPrime Minister Mohammed binSalman, colloquially known as MBS. For many years, observers haveporedovertheguestlists for such glitzystate visits for clues aboutwho s onthe rise in the USpresident’s favour. There’s notmuch mysteryon that scorethis time.Some of theguestsincludedtheleaders ofQualcomm; GeneralMotors; Bechtel worldwide construction giant;Pfizer Pharmaceuticals; Open AI; Apple; General Electric Aerospace; Dell Computer Technologies; Ford MotorCompany; Citigroup; Nvidia; Honeywell; IBM;Tesla; SaudiAramco, the world’s largestoil company; General Dynamics; Boeing; Cisco Systems; Goldman Sachs;Charles Schwab; AdvancedMicro Devices; Lockheed Martin; Caterpillar; Northrop Grumman; Chevron,and Zoom.Oraclewasrepresented by the founder s son. Thatmust beone ofthe most impressivegatherings of American tycoons ever from theworlds oftech,automotive, financialservices, military/industrial complex, bigpharma, andoil.This isa collection of oligarchs that comprehensively surpasses

any group Vladimir Putin could ever dream of. There has been and will long continue tobe intense speculation over the relationshipbetweenTrumpastheunchallenged headof theUS government andthis groupof industry titanswhose companies mustcollectively representanetworththatexceeds the gross domestic product of almost every nation on earth.

Who needs whom more?

WithTrump’scontrolofthe mighty,diversifiedenginethat is theUS government--especially itsmilitary andlawenforcement components-seemingly unchallenged,at leastfornow, it s tempting to givethe edgeto theAmerican chief executive.

One wonders what goes on in theminds ofsuch individuals during occasions such astheSaudistatedinner.Orin the minds of the American generals and admirals summoned from around the worldto asession withDefenceSecretary PeteHegseth in Virginia not long ago.

Do they figure that Trump willbegoneandofftheworld stagesoon enoughin thelong arcoftheircareersorthebusiness development histories of their corporations? Are they seduced by theaccess and dazzling business and career prospectsdangledbeforethem if only they will bow down andcomply withthepresident s whims?

Dothey wonderwhatthe USmightlook likeinthree years ifthey, collectivelyand individually, fail to stand up forwhat theybelieve isright for their country? It’s reasonabletoimagine thateachof these luminariesmust be deeply conflicted, no matter theirpoliticsoreconomicsituation.

Thismorning, Trumpis doubtless revellingin what appearsto bea majordiplomatic success, asthe UN Security Council hasendorseda Gazapeace anddevelopment plan, withRussia andChina abstaining. Government leaders within andoutside the Middle East are no doubt wondering if Trump has somehowuncovered thebeginnings of asolution to the world s mostobdurately vexing international problem. At thesame time,however, the overwhelmingCongressional approval of legislation requiring the release of the ‘Epstein papers’ appears to threaten Trump’s political hegemony justas he maybe solidifying hisleadership credentials in other areas of the world order. What adevilishly complex, unpredictable, iconoclastic, and yetpossibly positively transformative figurethis president continues to be!

Suspended PMH nurse returns to work with no disciplinary action after probe ends

By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunemedia.net

SENIOR nurse Pearl

Williams is back on the job at Princess Margaret Hospital with no disciplinary action and no restrictions, Bahamas Nurses Union

President Muriel Lightbourne said yesterday, ending a suspension that ignited national outrage and renewed scrutiny of conditions at the country’s busiest public hospital.

Ms Lightbourne said the investigation into Ms Williams’ conduct has wrapped up. Although the findings will still be forwarded to the disciplinary committee, she believes the matter is effectively closed.

“Once they would have done their investigation and everything else, they discuss their findings. They normally just send them back to work,” she said. “It's no restriction or no movement to say,

I'm going to move you from this area, put you in another area.”

Ms Williams, a 44-year nursing veteran, was placed on a ten-day suspension earlier this month after posting a video describing leaking roofs, rodent infestations, chronic supply shortages, staff burnout, and repeated delays in opening PMH’s new Accident & Emergency Department. She also appealed directly to Prime Minister Philip Davis to intervene.

During her suspension, she was reportedly barred from entering the hospital unless seeking medical care, banned from travel, and instructed to surrender her identification badge. The Public Hospitals Authority later confirmed it was investigating her post for an alleged breach of its social media policy. The move sparked immediate public backlash, with many accusing

the PHA of punishing a whistleblower rather than confronting longstanding structural failures. The uproar prompted comments from Minister of Health and Wellness Dr Michael Darville, who said he requested a full briefing and would ensure “due process is followed” and that the nurse is treated fairly.

Asked whether the minister’s remarks influenced the outcome, Ms Lightbourne said she does not believe they played a role. She said Ms Williams’ reinstatement followed standard procedure, which typically sees nurses returned to duty after the fact-finding stage is complete.

Ms Lightbourne said Ms Williams is in good spirits. The nurse has said she does not plan to file legal action, but hopes the concerns she raised are addressed and that Bahamians can “access care in a safer environment.”

PHOTOS showing terrible conditions at Princess Margaret Hospital.

SENIOR NURSE PEARL WILLIAMS

‘Curly’ says Arawak Cay fire forces vendors and officials

to ‘reflect and refocus’ on the

By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter kcampbell@ tribunemedia.net

THE inferno that levelled six Arawak Cay restaurants on Sunday has ripped open long-standing tensions over how the Fish Fry is run, highlighting vendors' frustration with cramped wooden structures, lax oversight, and years of stalled reform.

Vince ‘Curly’ McDonald, owner of Curly’s Restaurant & Bar, called the blaze unfortunate but said it forces vendors and officials to “reflect and refocus” on the future of the strip and be “intentional on where we’re going and how we’re going to get there.”

He said the current setup is unsustainable. “We’re piling on top of each other,” he said. “It’s chaos out there. I mean, everything’s close, claustrophobic, clustered, and all is wood. And you’re not sure the proper training to ensure something like this doesn’t happen in terms of fire drills and protocols for the environment.”

future

On the question of insuring Fish Fry buildings, he said insurers “won’t touch them.” He said the government and vendors have grown “comfortable in the old

habitual stuff that we’re used to,” creating a resistance to change. He said he

has seen a disconnect and animosity between vendors and legislators since

opening his restaurant 14 years ago.

“We have to have some kind of direction,” he said, adding that a strong oversight committee of vendors and policymakers is needed to enforce standards. He also dismissed the Arawak Cay Conch, Fish, Vegetable and Food Vendors Association as inactive.

“From I been there I had one election and they keep saying what they gonna do and nothing is being done,” he said.

For his part, ACVA president Rodney Russell said the immediate focus should be on the more than 60 people he believes have been thrust into hardship at the start of the Christmas season.

“We talk about building codes, and we talk about shantytown looks and we have not been compassionate about the families being impacted,” he said, adding that there’s been no “easement”. “Some of those families don’t know where to look in order to come to this Christmas season that we’re coming to.”

Mr Russell said Arawak Cay’s buildings met Ministry of Works standards when constructed, but said enforcement loosened over the years. He claimed the Fish Fry went “awry” after 2002 due to “friends and lovers” influencing approvals.

He accused some of using connections to erect structures outside the original rules: “You might see buildings going up in Arawak Cay and you may question it, because these persons now have family and friends who can interfere,” he said. He acknowledged the closeness of the wooden structures but insisted it played no role in Sunday’s destruction. “Doesn’t matter how much money you spend in building codes, fire is fire,” he said. “Fire don’t worry about building codes. We had followed the law and it has nothing to do with building codes, it had something to do with an accident. There is no one to blame other than the fire.”

• SEE FRONT PORCH PAGE 8

AFTERMATH: Fire gutted the stalls at Arawak Cay.

Photos: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff

RBDF mourns dedicated Leading Woman Marine Stephanie Darville

By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter kcampbell@tribunemedia.net

LEADING Woman

Marine Reservist Stephanie Darville was mourned this week as a devoted mother, disciplined officer, and the driving force behind her family’s reunions after she died last Sunday following a brief battle with aggressive cancer.

Her sister, G Veronica Basden, said Ms Darville, 58, approached both service and family with purpose and seriousness. She remained committed to the Royal Bahamas Defence Force after joining the reserves in 2012, while balancing life as a mother, sister, aunt, and a relative others relied on.

“She was definitely a very nice person,” Ms

Basden said. “She took her commitment seriously. She took family seriously.”

Ms Basden said her sister often led the organisation of their family reunions and worked to keep relatives connected.

Ms Darville joined Reserve Entry One in May 2012. Ms Basden said she finished at the top of her class and fully embraced the physical and academic demands of the programme. “She was committed and she loved it,” she said. “Any opportunity she could take as far as whatever trainings they had to improve her skills at the Defence Force, she did it.”

The Royal Bahamas Defence Force said Ms Darville served across the Base Maintenance Team Section and the Office of the Captain Coral Harbour.

Commodore Floyd Moxey, Commander Defence

Force, said her death left the organisation grieving. “She was a dedicated marine whose professionalism, loyalty, and warm spirit left a meaningful impact on all who served with her,” Commodore Moxey said.

He said he visited her before she died. “I had the solemn privilege of visiting her during her final days, and even then, her thoughts remained with the men and women of the Defence Force,” he said. “Her unwavering concern for others, even in her most difficult moments, spoke volumes about the type of Marine and person she was.”

He said Ms Darville served with distinction from the moment she joined the reserves. “Since joining Reserve Entry One in 2012, Leading Woman Marine Darville served with honour and distinction. Her

MAN ACQUITTED OF CHARGE FOR THE 2013 MANSLAUGHTER OF A JUBILEE GARDENS TEEN

By PAVEL BAILEY

Tribune

Staff Reporter

pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A MAN was acquitted on Tuesday of the 2013 manslaughter of 18-year-old Sylvester Woodside in Jubilee Gardens. Justice Guillimina Archer-Minns directed a nine-person jury to acquit Jadre Evans after reviewing the evidence at the close of the prosecution’s case.

Evans had been accused of causing Woodside’s shooting death on November 28, 2013. He was arrested on December 1, 2013, along with Storm Ferguson. At the time of his arrest, Evans told police he had intended to turn himself in the following day. The court also received Ferguson’s death certificate, which said he died of a seizure. Cecil Woodside, the

DEFENDENT FINED $5K AFTER ADMITTING TO HAVING 20 ROUNDS OF AMMUNITION

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A MAN was ordered to pay a $5,000 fine after admitting he had 20 rounds of ammunition in his Winnifred Avenue home last week.

Jason Pierre, 23, was found with 20 rounds of 9mm ammunition hidden in a bathroom trash can at his residence around 2am on November 13. Pierre was the only defendant who pleaded

guilty to possession of ammunition before Magistrate Lennox Coleby. His co-accused — Margarette Dean, 55, Aliria Williams, 29, and Erika Carey, 51 — all pleaded not guilty. Because Pierre accepted full responsibility for the offence, the charges against the remaining defendants were withdrawn. Pierre was fined $5,000 or faced 18 months in prison if he failed to pay. Assistant Superintendent Lincoln McKenzie prosecuted the matter.

$3K BAIL GRANTED TEEM ACCUSED OF INAPPROPRIATELY TOUCHING GIRL

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A 16-YEAR-OLD boy was granted bail on Tuesday after he was accused of inappropriately touching a female student at a high school in September.

Police allege the teen, whose name is being withheld because he is a minor, touched the girl’s privates on September 7 in New

Providence. He pleaded not guilty to a charge of indecent assault before Senior Magistrate Algernon Allen Jr. The defendant was granted $3,000 bail with one or two sureties and warned not to interfere with witnesses. He is scheduled to return to court for a report on March 5, 2026. Sergeant 3004 Forbes prosecuted the matter.

contributions to the Base Maintenance Team and, most recently, to the Office of the Captain Coral Harbour, reflected her steadfast commitment to excellence and service to country.”

He said her memory will remain within the Force.

Ms Basden said her sister also worked for years as a croupier, her primary occupation. “She ensures that she is on top of her game,” she said.

She said Ms Darville helped people quietly.

“When she helped and assisted persons you would never even know because that is how she operated. When she does things she does it selflessly,” she said.

Ms Darville had two sons and one grandson. Ms Basden said she remained communicative in her final weeks but grew too weak to continue treatment as the cancer advanced.

Officers discover firearms and marijuana during separate operations yesterday

victim’s father, testified that the last time he saw his son was during Thanksgiving 2013. Prosecutors were Tabitha Frazier, Gary Rolle III, Davina Pinder, and Danielle Capron. Evans was represented by Cassie Bethell and Damian White.

OFFICERS recovered two firearms and a quantity of suspected marijuana on Wednesday during separate operations in New Providence, according to police.

In the first incident, shortly before 6am, officers assigned to Operation Black Scorpion were on

routine mobile patrol in the southern section of Marigold Farm Road when they found an abandoned grey Honda hidden in bushes.

A search of the vehicle uncovered a firearm and ammunition. The car was later towed for processing. No arrests were made.

Later that afternoon,

shortly after 3pm, officers from the Tourism Police Unit acting on information searched a bushy area off a dirt road on Matthew Street. There, they seized a high-powered firearm, ammunition, and a small quantity of suspected marijuana. Again, no arrests were made.

MARINE RESERVIST STEPHANIE DARVILLE

What’s next now that Trump has signed bill releasing the Epstein files

WASHINGTON Associated Press

PRESIDENT Donald Trump has signed a bill to compel the Justice Department to make public its case files on the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, a potentially far-reaching development in a yearslong push by survivors of Epstein’s abuse for a public reckoning.

Both the House and Senate passed the bill this week with overwhelming margins after Trump reversed course on his monthslong opposition to the bill and indicated he would sign it. Now that the bill has been signed by the president, there’s a 30-day countdown for the Justice Department to produce what’s commonly known as the Epstein files.

“This bill is a command for the president to be fully transparent, to come fully clean, and to provide full honesty to the American people,” Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer of New York said Wednesday. Schumer added that Democrats were ready to push back if they perceive that the president is doing anything but adhering to “full transparency.”

In a social media post Wednesday as he announced he had signed the bill, Trump wrote, “Democrats have used the ‘Epstein’ issue, which affects them far more than the Republican Party, in order to try and distract from our AMAZING Victories.”

The swift, bipartisan work in Congress this week was a response to the growing public demand that the Epstein files be

released, especially as attention focuses on his connections to global leaders including Trump, former President Bill Clinton, Andrew Mountbatten Windsor, who has already been stripped of his royal title as Prince Andrew over the matter, and many others.

There is plenty of public anticipation about what more the files could reveal.

Yet the bill will most likely trigger a rarely seen baring of a sprawling federal investigation, also creating the potential for unintended consequences.

The bill compels Attorney General Pam Bondi to release essentially everything the Justice Department has collected over multiple federal investigations into Epstein, as well as his longtime confidante and girlfriend Ghislaine Maxwell, who is serving a 20-year prison sentence for luring teenage girls for the disgraced financier. Those records total around 100,000 pages, according to a federal judge who has reviewed the case. It will also compel the Justice Department to produce all its internal communications on Epstein and his associates and his 2019 death in a Manhattan jail cell as he awaited charges for sexually abusing and trafficking dozens of teenage girls. The legislation, however, exempts some parts of the case files. The bill’s authors made sure to include that the Justice Department could withhold personally identifiable information of victims, child sexual abuse materials and information deemed by the

administration to be classified for national defence or foreign policy.

“We will continue to follow the law with maximum transparency while protecting victims,” Bondi told a news conference Wednesday when asked about releasing the files. The bill also allows the Justice Department to withhold information that would jeopardize active investigations or prosecutions. That’s created some worry among the bill’s proponents that the department would open active

investigations into people named in the Epstein files in order to shield that material from public view.

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, a longtime Trump loyalist who has had a prominent split with Trump over the bill, said Tuesday that she saw the administration’s compliance with the bill as its “real test.”

“Will the Department of Justice release the files, or will it all remain tied up in investigations?” she asked.

In July, the FBI said in a memo regarding the Epstein investigation that, “we did not uncover evidence that could predicate an investigation against uncharged third parties.” But Bondi last week complied with Trump’s demands and ordered a federal prosecutor to investigate Epstein’s ties to the president’s political foes,

including Clinton.

Still, Rep. Thomas Massie, a Kentucky Republican who sponsored the bill, said “there’s no way they can have enough investigations to cover” all of the people he believes are implicated in Epstein’s abuse.

“And if they do, then good,” he added.

The bill also requires the Justice Department to produce reports on what materials it withheld, as well as redactions made, within 15 days of the release of the files. It stipulates that officials can’t withhold or redact anything “on the basis of embarrassment, reputational harm, or political sensitivity, including to any government official, public figure, or foreign dignitary.”

There’s a widely held expectation that many people could be named in

case files for investigations that spanned over a decade — and some concern that just because someone is named, that person would be assumed guilty or complicit.

Epstein was a luminary who kept company with heads of state, influential political figures, academics and billionaires. The release of his emails and messages by a House Oversight Committee investigation last week has already shown his connections with — and private conversations about — Trump and many other high-powered figures.

Yet federal prosecutors follow carefully constructed guidelines about what information they produce publicly and at trial, both to protect victims and to uphold the fairness of the legal system. House Speaker Mike Johnson raised objections to the bill on those grounds this week, arguing that it could reveal unwanted information on victims as well as others who were in contact with investigators.

Still, Johnson did not actually try to make changes to the bill and voted for it on the House floor.

For the bill’s proponents, a public reckoning over the investigation is precisely the point. Some of the survivors of trafficking from Epstein and Maxwell have sought ways to name people they accuse of being complicit or involved, but fear they will face lawsuits from the men they accuse.

Massie said that he wants the FBI to release the reports from its interviews with the victims.

Those reports typically contain unvetted information, but Massie said he is determined to name those who are accused. He and Greene have offered to read the names of those accused on the House floor, which would shield their speech from legal consequences.

“We need names,” Massie said.

REP LAUREN BOEBERT, R-Colorado, leaves the US Capitol after voting in favour of the Epstein Files Transparency Act, on Tuesday, in Washington.

Photo: Julia Demaree Nikhinson/AP

Girl Guides unveil new headquarters off West Bay Street

THE Bahamas Girl Guides Association unveiled its new headquarters off West Bay Street yesterday — a building officials say marks a significant milestone for the body and will serve as a hub for learning, leadership, and service to support young Bahamian girls.

The three-storey building — called Legacy House and overlooking Nassau’s harbour — houses administrative offices, a Girls Empowered Centre, and a training centre with breakout rooms designed to foster leadership, teamwork, and innovation.

Association officials said they were grateful to open the facility, adding that Legacy House will guide girls and young women toward new pathways of possibility.

They also pledged to offer cutting-edge experiences that introduce girls to emerging technologies and the skills shaping the future, including critical thinking and problem-solving.

In his remarks, Prime Minister Philip Davis

congratulated the association, noting the building’s unveiling comes after more than 100 years of service in The Bahamas.

He also praised the association for helping shape many of the women who serve their communities today.

“Your organisation has taught girls your age to be kind, to be helpful, and to be proud of who you are,” Mr Davis said.

“It has taught you how to work together, how to show respect, and how to put your best effort into whatever you do. “ He continued: “Your government has supported this movement through the years because we believe in you.

“We believe in what you can grow into. And we believe in the people who guide you every week with patience, care, and love.” Mr Davis concluded his speech with a plea to the young girls, asking them to promise that they will always do their best, treat others with respect, and believe in themselves.

THE Bahamas Girl Guides Association’s new headquarters off West Bay Street. Photos: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff

PRIME Minister Philip Davis, Governor General Cynthia “Mother” Pratt, Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Mario Bowleg and Lady Marguerite Pindling at the unveiling yesterday.

GOVERNOR General Cynthia “Mother” Pratt is shown one of the exhibits and accepts a gift (above) from Girl Guides.

WATERKEEPERS Bahamas’ teams have been on the water collecting samples.

Waterkeepers Bahamas begins water-quality testing around the Taino Beach Bridge

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Staff Reporter

dmaycock@ tribunemedia.net

WATERKEEPERS

Bahamas has begun intensive water-quality testing around the Taino Beach Bridge as crews push ahead with a temporary causeway meant to keep Grand Bahama moving while the bridge undergoes major rehabilitation.

Teams have been on the water collecting samples in nearby channels, checking for any shift in clarity, sediment levels, or signs of stress to the fragile marine systems surrounding the construction zone. The causeway, led by Lucaya Service Company Limited and Tamarind (Grand Bahama) Development, is designed to restore full access for both light and heavy vehicles while long-delayed bridge repairs continue.

Waterkeepers said it is working alongside project partners to ensure every stage of the build is carried out with strong environmental oversight, especially

in the shallow, sensitive waters that border Taino Beach.

Its monitoring programme includes scheduled water sampling before, during, and after construction, creating a baseline that will allow scientists to detect disruptions as they emerge.

“This project is not just about restoring bridge access – it’s about doing it

in a way that respects and protects the surrounding waters and nearby communities,” said Chesna Cox, Environmental Science Coordinator at Waterkeepers Bahamas. “Our team is monitoring conditions before, during, and after construction so we can identify any emerging issues early and work with the project partners to address them.”

Waterkeepers teams are taking samples at several locations to check for sediment spikes and other construction-linked impacts. They are also conducting on-water surveys by boat, documenting any visible changes to habitat, water movement, and coastal health as work progresses.The group brings extensive environmental experience to the project.

Over the past five years, Waterkeepers Bahamas has led Canal Clean Sweep operations on Grand Bahama, organised volunteer coastal cleanups, and maintained long-term monitoring at priority sites across the island.

Its reputation for datadriven advocacy positions it as an independent watchdog during the Taino Beach Bridge works. “Our

role is to help ensure that development and environmental responsibility go hand in hand,” Ms Cox said. Waterkeepers Bahamas’ mission is to promote swimmable, fishable, and drinkable waters throughout the country. The organisation is an accredited member of Waterkeeper Alliance, the world’s largest clean-water nonprofit network.

CREWS have been pushing ahead with a temporary causeway meant to keep Grand Bahama moving while the bridge undergoes major rehabilitation.

British High Commission donates musical instruments to youth bands in Eleuthera

THE British High Commission Nassau has donated a significant consignment of musical instruments to two Eleuthera organisations— Preston H Albury High School and the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) Eleuthera Music Masters Band—in an effort to boost music education and youth development.

Her Excellency Mrs Smita Rossetti, British High Commissioner to The Bahamas, and Deputy High Commissioner Miss Luksha Wickramarachchi travelled to Eleuthera last week for the handover ceremony, alongside the local Member of Parliament, the Hon. Clay Sweeting. Mrs Rossetti said, “We are proud to support these young musicians and their communities with new instruments across brass, woodwind and percussion. Music is a universal language that bridges cultures, and it builds

lifelong skills such as teamwork, discipline and resilience.”

The donation included clarinets, trumpets, flutes, saxophones, and a full drum kit for Preston H Albury High School’s growing music programme. The RBPF Eleuthera Music Masters Band, a crime prevention initiative targeting over 100 at-risk youth, also received instruments to support its work.

The project was made possible by several UKbased partners, including musicians Andy and Sarah Devereux and specialist retailers Malcolm Kirkpatrick (The Wind Section) and Annette Cooney (Howarth of London), who helped source, service, and coordinate the delivery of the instruments. The initiative underscores the Commission’s commitment to cultural diplomacy and collaboration in the region.

Photos: The Eleutheran

Smita Rossetti, British High Commissioner

SMITA ROSSETTI, British High Commissioner (centre in white pants) and Minister of Works and Family Island Affairs Clay Sweeting along with students, faculty of Preston H Albury High School and representatives of the RBPF during the presentation of a consignment of musical instruments oto both organisations.

Photo: The Eleutheran Newspaper

BTC honours 46 top performers for Q3

A LEADING telecoms

provider BTC celebrated internal achievements and honoured 46 employees at its Q3 Top Performer Awards Ceremony on November 19, reinforcing the company’s commitment to recognizing excellence across the organisation.

The ceremony highlighted BTC’s significant milestones during the third quarter, which included the successful completion of its fibreisation project in Grand Bahama. Additionally, the company launched groundbreaking technology in Bimini with its BTC Air product, delivering

next-generation fixed wireless access for enhanced internet, television, landline, and mobile services. BTC also fully renovated and upgraded its retail store on the island during this period. The 46 honourees were nominated by their respective managers for consistently surpassing goals and contributing to a culture of collaboration and accountability. This quarterly event is a vital part of BTC’s wider employee recognition programme, which spotlights outstanding individuals who continue to elevate the company’s

standard of excellence. All quarterly honourees become contenders for the coveted Employee of the Year title, to be announced in January 2026.

Patrice Thompson, BTC’s Director of People, emphasised the importance of recognition: “Our people are the heartbeat of BTC. Recognising our team members is about more than awards—it is about creating a culture where people feel seen, valued, and motivated to continue doing their best work. When employees know their efforts matter, the entire organisation thrives.”

BTC continues to position itself as one of the country’s top employers through a range of progressive initiatives, including an extended paid parental leave policy for mothers, fathers, and adoptive parents, and professional growth programmes offering thousands of free courses via LinkedIn Learning. The company recently held a Long Service Awards Ceremony at Government House to honour employees with 30 or more years of service, reflecting its long-standing legacy and commitment to its workforce.

Exuma Alliance accuses rival of misleading public

THESave ExumaAlliance

(SEA) is accusing the developer behind the proposed RosewoodExuma resortof misleading thepublic about the levelof communitysupport for the project. SEA said apost onthe developer s social media claimed that most residents of BlackPoint and Staniel Cayhad apositive viewoftheSampsonCayprojectandwantedittobeginimmediately, andfurther claimed that morethan 72 percent of ExumaCays residents support the development.

According to SEA, those claims are not supported by the independentsurvey conducted bythe Organisation for Responsible Governance (ORG).

The ORG survey asked residents ofStaniel Cayand BlackPoint whetherthey viewed the project positively, negatively orneutrally. The resultsshowed 34.6percent positive, 37.9percent neutral

and 27.4 percent negative. SEAsaidthe onlywayto reach “72 percentsupport” is by adding the positive and neutral categoriestogether, arguing thatneutrality isnot the same assupporting the project. The group questioned why thedeveloper would gloss over such basic findings andsaidthemisrepresentation raises concernsabout what else may be distorted.

Thepressreleasealsonoted that the survey identified significant environmental worries in the affected communities.SEA saidninety-six percentof respondentswant the environment protected, whilethree-quarters areconcerned about the impact of a 390-foot seawall approved by the Departmentof EnvironmentalPlanning andProtection. Seventy-two percent expressed concern about dredging that could damage the area s healthyseagrass, coral and juvenile conch. The surveyfurther showed

thatmore residentsprefera smaller, low-impact development model ratherthan a large resort dependent on extensive dredging, andthat people want decisions about Crown land to involve proper consultation and enforceable environmental safeguards.

SEA said thatwith only

one-third of residents feeling positive about the project and overwhelming majorities worried aboutthe seawall, dredging, Crown land use andthescaleofdevelopment, it is unclearhow the developer can justify its public statements.

The group saidthe com-

NASSAU,TheBahamas -TheMinistry of Health and Wellness is being commended forsupporting initiatives aimedatcurbing therisingnumberof cases of Non-Communicable Diseases, particularly diabetes, throughout The Bahamas.

Friday, November 14, 2025 was observed as World Diabetes Day under the global theme: 'Diabetes and Well-being,' toshedlight onthelocalcampaign, 'Diabetes and the Workplace.' Theone-daysymposium washeldat St. Gregory’s AnglicanChurch Hallon Carmichael Road.

Dr. Philip Swann, Acting Director of the Departmentof PublicHealth said Today,we cometogethernot onlyto share information, but to rethink how our workplaces canbecome healthier, more supportive environments places where employees canthrive, productivitycangrow,andchronicdiseases

munity supportsopportunity butnotat anycost,andthat protecting the sea, following fair processes and pursuing development that fits the Exuma Caysare thepriorities forresidents.SEA saiditis unfortunate that misleading comments about a reputable surveyare circulatingand urgedpeople toreviewthe full report themselves.

The complete ORG survey results are available on SEAs website. A petition calling fora halttoenvironmental clearancesfor the Sampson Cay project has gatheredmore than7,000 signatures.

Min of Health and Wellness continues diabetes campaign

likediabetescanbebetterprevented,detected, and managed.”

Eachyear,onNovember14,theworld comes together torecognize World Diabetes Day a day toraise awareness, share knowledge, andrenew thecommitment toimproving the livesof all people living with diabetes.

This year’s globaltheme, 'Diabetes and Well-being,' was a reminder that the ultimategoalofhealth isnotsimplyto survive, butto live well with dignity, balance, and hope.

And the localcampaign drewattentionto avitalreality:that formost adults,the workplaceis wherehealth and daily life intersect.

As leaders, colleagues, and health advocates,ourroleistopushtheconversationforward. Wemust designpolicies that are inclusive, promote wellness programs that are accessible, and encourage managers tobe proactivepartners in supportingstaff wellbeing.Whenwellness becomespart ofthe workplacecul-

ture notan add-on,but apriority everyone benefits,” said Dr. Swann.

He notedthat thedepartment of Public Health is doing its part to expand accessto services,which areearmarked tocommencein thefirstquarterof 2026.

Dr. EldonnaBoisson, PAHO/WHO Representative in TheBahamas, underscored the importanceof awarenessand sharedknowledge ofthisnon-communicable disease.

“Supporting workers livingwith diabetes is therefore essential not only for their personalwell-being, butalso for the well-being ofour societies and economies, she said.

Diabetesis regardedasone ofthe mostsignificantpublichealthchallenges of today.Globally, more than540 million adults live with diabetes and this numberisprojectedtorisesharplyinthe coming decades,according tohealth officials.

BIS Photos/Patrice Johnson

Dr. EldonnaBoisson, PAHO/WHORepresentative inThe Bahamas, addresses World Diabetes Day Symposium.

Gold-medallist Rowdy Gaines' tips for older swimmers

Don't abandon the pool because you age, just return to it correctly

By STEPHEN WADE AP Sports Writer

OLYMPIC

gold-medallist

Rowdy Gaines has swimming tips ifyou're anolder swimmer, or returningto the pool after years away.

Gaines wonthree Olympic gold medalsat the1984 Los Angeles Games andis widely known asthe "voiceof swimming" for hiscoverage of the Olympics withAmerican network NBC.

Swimmingis anall-around exercise with water providing mild resistance. It's low-impact, offers a complete workout and issuitable for all ages.

"Of course I'm biased, but I will stack swimming against anyother exerciseoutthere, especially as we age," Gaines told TheAssociated Press. "And swimming isone of the fewsports youcando forever."

Gaines missed outon a shot atwinningahandfulofmedals at the 1980 Moscow Olympics, which the United States boycotted.Gaines set 10 worldrecords between 1978and 1984and wasthe heirin Americansprintingto Mark Spitz anda predecessor to Michael Phelps.

Gainesis66andsaidhis90year-oldfather,Buddy,isback trainingfor ameet forolder swimmers earlynext year.He saidhisfather hasnotswum seriouslyin, perhaps,70 years.

Gainesstayed awayfrom advice aroundstrokes, detailed workout plans,and specific training suggestions. His tipsaregearedforolderswimmersandthoseretuningaftera long layoff perhaps decades.

Defog your goggles, slip into the pool, grab your kickboard and get motivated.

Get your technique down Taketimeto workonyour technique. Mostrecreational swimmersuse thefreestyle stroke,alsoknownasthefront crawl.Buthis advicealsoapplies tobreaststroke, backstroke and butterfly. With freestyle,Gaines preaches taking long, smooth strokes notshort, choppy ones.

And forfreestyle swimmers,keep yourhead inthe waterand alignedwithyour body.

"Water rewardsefficiency," said Gaines, who won his three goldmedals inthe 100 free and tworelays. "It has nothingto dowith power.I think alot offirst-timers feel liketheyhave topowertheir way through thewater and that is not true."

Be patient Build distance and endur-

ance slowly. Maybe a few decades agoyou couldswim non-stop for 30 minutes. You won'tbe abletoafter along time away.

Start with a 200-yard (meter)workout. Swim25 yards (meters)and restuntil your heart rateslows. Do this eightto10times"andthenget theheckout ofthepool," Gaines said.

"Youdon'twanttooverdoit to start with and then get frustrated and thinkyou can't do it," he said. "Youneed to increaseyourtotaldistancelittle by little."

Gainessuggestedthegoalis a20-30minuteworkout,three timesperweek.Swimmingrelieson gettingafeel forthe water, whichrequires steadfastness.

"Three daysa weekisthe sweetspot,"he said."Ifyou aredoing lessthan threedays a week, it's really tough to de-

strength. Breaststroke in also easier on the shoulders. Butterfly, however, is tough on the shoulders.

The mental game Gaines emphasized keepingit funandgettingcomfortable inthe water. Not fighting it.

Learnto feelthe water," he said. "The small goal ofjust feeling the water is much more important thanmany other things.Swimming is not easy. You are not alwaysgoing tofeel good swimming.But you are going to feel great when you're done."

He also emphasized varyingyourworkout meaning time,distance andstrokes tokeepin fun and interesting.

Hydration and training aids Swimmers need to stayhydrated. It'snot generally aproblem for recreational swimmers, but swimmersperspire while swimming. The warmer thepool, the

velopthe consistencyyou need."

Injury prevention

This is commonsense, but taketimetowarmup.Dothis on dry land, perhaps, before hitting the water. Do stretches, workyour shoulders, and workon some strength training.

It's nosecret thatsome swimmersexperience lotsof shoulder pain.

"Youhave tolisten toany pain,"Gainessaid. "Painisa lot different thanfatigue or strain.Painis real.Ifyouare feeling fatigue and strain, that'sgood. Ifyou arefeeling pain, that's bad."

If something hurts, stop and change your workout.

Ifyou swimfreestyle, Gaines suggested adding in a bit ofbackstroke toloosen the shoulders and add

morethis mightbea problem.

Gaines remindedthat pool temperatures vary,but 80degrees F (27 degrees C) is about right. Warmer temperaturescan leadto moredehydration.

He also suggested training aids such a swim fins, paddles or pull-buoys, which are alsoanother partof adding variety. "I really don't like to swim, butIlovethefeelingofbeing done,"Gaines said.(Remember, thisrevelation is from adecorated Olympic athlete.) "Icrave thatfeeling when I get out of the water. It's theendorphins. It'sdefinitely mental for me."

Gaines said he swims six days a week, usually between 2,000and 2,500yards (meters).

He said about 40% is freestyle with three20% sections of backstroke, breaststroke and kicking.

"You want tohave variety for that recreational swimmer because swimmingcan be boring," Gainessaid. "However,swimming canalmostbe meditation,evenfor that three-day a week, recreational swimmer."

Minaj addresses Nigerian persecution

UNITED NATIONS(AP)

Rapper Nicki Minaj took up PresidentDonald Trump's allegationsthat Christiansare persecutedin Nigeria,saying Tuesday at aUnited Nations event organizedby theU.S. that shewants toshine aspotlight on "the deadly threat."

Trump hassaid Christianity faces an"existential threat"in Nigeria and hastold the Pentagonto beginpreparing for possiblemilitary actionin the West African nation. Experts andresidents saysome attackstarget Christians,but most emphasize thatin the widespreadviolence thathas longplaguedtheWestAfrican nation, everyone isa potential victim, regardlessof background or belief.

TheTrinidadian-bornMinaj thankedTrump forhisleadership andfor callingfor urgent action"todefendChristiansin Nigeria, to combat extremism and to bring a stop to violence againstthose whosimply want to exercise their natural rightto freedomof religionor belief."

She spoke at a panel at the U.S. mission to the United Nationsalong withU.S.AmbassadorMikeWaltzandfaith leaders. The event came after she repliedto Trump'ssocial media post about Nigeria earlierthismonth,saying,"No groupshould everbepersecuted forpracticing theirreligion."

InapostSundayonX,Pope Leo XIV said Christians are suffering discriminationand

persecution in various parts of the world,pointing toNigeria and other countries like Bangladesh,Mozambiqueand Sudan.

Introducing Minaj,Waltz said, "She stepson to this worldstagenot asacelebrity but as a witness ... to spotlight Nigeria's persecutedchurch" tohermillionsofsocialmedia followers.

Sayingshe was"very nervous" tospeak beforethe panel, Minaj vowed to keep standingup"in thefaceofinjustice"for anyoneanywhere who isbeing persecutedfor their beliefs.

"Sadly, this problem is not onlyagrowingprobleminNigeria, but also in so many other countriesaround the world," she said.

Minaj saidshe wantedto makeclear thatprotecting Christians inNigeria wasn't about takingsides ordividing people."It isaboutuniting people," she said, calling Nigeria"a beautifulnationwith deep faith traditions"that she can't wait to see.

Wintertime arrives in Britain

OVERNIGHT snow covers St Andrew's Church on Kiln Pit Hill in Northumberland, England, Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025. Photo:Owen Humphreys/PA via AP

POP star Nicki Minaj joined faith leaders TuesdayNov. 18, 2025,atthe U.S.Missionin New York.

AP Photo/Joseph B. Frederick