12082023 NEWS AND SPORT

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Volume: 121 No.14, December 8, 2023

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RBDF RECRUITING DROP OVER HAITI

Candidates choose other services amid deployment plans

By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net ROYAL Bahamas Defence Force Commodore Raymond King said plans to send officers to Haiti has hampered the RBDF’s recruitment efforts, with some potential recruits choosing to join other law enforcement organisations.

“What we’ve realised, particularly with this recruitment exercise that

A LANDMARK REBORN

is pending, we would have lost a number of candidates who decided to move to the other armed forces because when the conversation comes now to being deployed to Haiti, it’s a reality check for a number of persons in terms of do I want to make the ultimate sacrifice in joining the Royal Bahamas Defence Force,” he said during an Office of the Prime Minister press briefing yesterday.

SEE PAGE FIVE

MIGRATION DOWN OVERALL - BUT RISE IN THOSE HEADED TO THE US

By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net ROYAL Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) Commodore Raymond King said the northern Bahamas has seen a 90 per cent increase in migration to the United States.

However, he said migration from Haiti to The Bahamas has significantly declined, with no reported

or detected migrant landings in 2023.

He gave statistics during a briefing at the Office of the Prime Minister yesterday.

He said February had the highest number of apprehensions of migrants, saying 563 were apprehended.

“As it relates to The Bahamas, we encounter Haitians, Cubans, Jamaicans, Dominicans, Chinese SEE PAGE FIVE

THE ELBOW Reef Lighthouse was officially reopened yesterday - with diplomats from the US, China and the UK all in attendance for the ceremony. See PAGE THREE for the full story - plus today’s WEEKEND for more photographs.

Photo: Dante Carrer

Police justified in shooting Saunders YACHT SEASON ‘DISMAL’

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net A CORONER’s Court jury ruled that police were justified in killing Ishido Saunders, an ex-con who demanded $3,000 to start a

new life moments before he was shot on Antigua Street on April 28, 2022.

Saunders’ mother, Ruth Cox, appeared at peace when the finding was disclosed yesterday.

Earlier in the week, she testified that her son was

angry while at the Golden Gates Assembly Church the night he was killed, but that she didn’t fear him.

She said her son and a pastor were involved in a discussion about the police.

SEE PAGE SEVEN

Nassau & Bahama Islands’ Leading Newspaper

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net

BAHAMIAN yacht brokers yesterday warned charter bookings for the peak winter season are “dismal”.

FULL STORY - SEE BUSINESS

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, December 8, 2023, PAGE 3

A landmark reborn

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net THE iconic Elbow Reef Lighthouse in Hope Town, Abaco, was officially reopened yesterday after months of renovation following Hurricane Dorian.

A ceremony to mark the completion of the Elbow Reef Lighthouse Restoration project was held on the island yesterday.

A grant from the US Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) worth over $472,000 made the project possible. This was the most significant investment the US Embassy has ever made in the country.

US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Usha Pitts reflected on the lighthouse’s various roles over the years, from serving as a guide for ship captains to becoming a symbol of hope for the Abaco people.

“We don’t know what role it would play in our lives in the future, but we do know that it was built by the British, its restoration was funded by the Americans, but now and forever it will belong to the Bahamian people,” she said.

Central and South Abaco MP John Pinder added: “It is something that shows

‘It is something that shows more than just light. It is a reflection of what we are here in Abaco – resilience.’

John Pinder MP

ASSISTANT Lighthouse Keeper Jackson Blatch. more than just light. It is a reflection of what we are here in Abaco –– resilience.

This lighthouse has withstood storm after storm and centuries of obstacles.”

He also thanked those who contributed toward preserving the historic landmark.

Heather Forde-Prosa, development director of The Elbow Reef Lighthouse Society, the body that oversaw the restoration project, said her organisation wants to work on a maintenance programme for the lighthouse, gain additional financial support, and prepare the next generation of people who want to preserve the lighthouse.

We have received help from the minister of tourism, and we have received help from the port department. What we need to do is beef up these budgets because it can be a can of worms,” she told reporters.

“You can start on a project, and it becomes something you couldn’t imagine having required the amount of funds and money to make it right, so we are looking for some kind of budget that’s specified for taking care of this.”

Jackson Blatch, assistant

MINISTER of Housing and Urban Renewal Keith Bell, Parliamentary Secretary Jamahl Strachan, Charge d’Affaires Usha Pitts and Chinese Ambassador Dai Qingli atop the lighthouse during the official opening of the Elbow Reef Lighthouse yesterday following the US Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation Restoration Project.

Photos: Dante Carrer lighthouse keeper, agreed that more funding is needed, saying workers are underpaid.

This is my second year as a keeper, and I realise that it isn’t cutting it as a keeper,” he said. “You have to have a second job to support yourself and your family.

The work that is involved in being a keeper, you should be able to survive just off of just having a job as keeper because the shift rotates.”

“The first watch starts from six to twelve. The second watch is from twelve to six the next morning, so imagine having to do that and then having to have a second job to be able to support yourself and your family.”

Constructed in 1863, the iconic red-and-white Elbow Reef Lighthouse is the last of its kind in the world.

• For more, see today’s WEEKEND section.

US Chargé d’Affaires Usha Pitts, above, and British High Commissioner Tom Hartley, below, touring the interior of the Elbow Reef Lighthouse.

PARLIAMENTARY Secretary Jamahl Strachan, Minister for Central and South Abaco John Pinder II, Minister of State in the Office of the Prime Minister Myles LaRoda, Charge d’Affaires Usha Pitts, Minister of Housing and Urban Renewal Keith Bell, British High Commissioner Tom Hartley and Chinese Ambassador Dai Qingli and other officials during the official opening of the Elbow Reef Lighthouse following the US Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation Restoration Project.

PAGE 4, Friday, December 8, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

PM on FNM: A house divided could never stand

By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunemedia.net “A HOUSE divided could never stand.”

That was Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis’ response to conflicts in the Free National Movement.

Unity for the FNM has been elusive since the party lost the 2021 general election.

Last week, the party’s vice chairman, Richard Johnson, was involved in a physical altercation outside the party’s headquarters.

Former Deputy Prime Minister Desmond Bannister alluded to the incident

in an open letter urging Michael Pintard to hold a convention “at the earliest possible date,” saying failing to do so would diminish confidence in his leadership.

Asked about the FNM’s conflict, Mr Davis said: “I don’t get in other people’s business. I’ll just remind them of the admonition given to the House of Assembly yesterday that a house divided could never stand, and I don’t think that means success if they’re divided.”

Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper also commented on the tensions in the party.

“I think the growing tensions in the FNM is a matter that they must contend with,” he said on Wednesday. “We are committed to providing stable, competent, and compassionate leadership. That is what we offer in the Progressive Liberal Party.

“I think the Bahamian people see the FNM for who they are, what they are and they acknowledge the chaos they are currently going through. I think any discussion of the PLP, when they are contending with their own chaos, is a red herring and distraction from the problems that they face.”

FOOD PROGRAMME STILL BEING PROBED

By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunemedia.net PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said police are still investigating the COVID-19 food programme the Minnis administration launched, adding police recovered “matters” unrelated to the programme.

He stressed that the investigation is a police matter.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Leamond Deleveaux later told The Tribune several people had been questioned regarding the matter.

The scope of the investigation into the food programme is unclear, but the Davis

administration has said the programme lacked proper oversight.

In April, former Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said police officers interviewed him earlier this year as part of an extensive criminal investigation into the programme.

Dr Minnis, who The Tribune contacted, said three senior officers interviewed him for over an hour.

Commissioner Deleveaux said Dr Minnis was not a suspect in the investigation.

The Tribune understands the Office of the Auditor General audited the food programme, but it is not clear if the probe is complete. The audit is expected to be tabled in the House of Assembly.

$4,000 DONATION TO FOX HILL COMMITTEE THE Consultant Physicians Staff Association donated $4,000 to the Fox Hill Festival Committee Annual Community Giveback. The event scheduled for December 15, is set to bring cheer to the community during the yuletide season.

Georgette Gardiner, International and Tourism Coordinator of the Fox Hill Festival Committee said the event will provide 300 community members with free food, grocery parcels, and household items.

Dr Charelle Lockhart, President of the Consultant Physicians Staff

Association expressed gratitude to partner with the committee.

“We do something similar to this each year during this time and it is warming my heart to be able to partner with you all and to give back to this community,” she said yesterday.

The committee is appealing for more donations and volunteers to assist in making the event a success.

Pictured is the presentation of the donation at Fox Hill Community Centre yesterday.

Photo: Moise Amisial

PM: RENEWABLE PLAN CLEAR STRATEGY

By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunemedia.net

Death Notice For Mr. David G. F. Streather, 83 of #2 Cresswell Road, Freeport, Grand Bahama, Bahamas formerly of Sutton Coldfield, England died at his residence on Sunday, November 24th, 2023.

MEMORIAL ANNOUNCEMENT Memorial Service will be held on Friday, December 15th, 2023, 11:00 a.m. at The Chapel at Restview Memorial Mortuary and Crematorium Limited, #11-A Coral Road, Freeport, Grand Bahama.

Officiating will be Rev. Brian K. Sands.

PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said the government’s plan to develop renewable energy on Family Islands is a “clear economic strategy” to give Bahamians affordable power.

He made his comments during a press conference on the government’s Request For Proposal (RFP) process for improving power supply on several Family Islands.

Power generation on the selected Family Islands is expected to improve through microgrids, cleaner fuel, and renewables.

“Our commitment to renewable energy and solar microgrids is not just an environmental standard,” Mr Davis said. “It’s about ensuring that Bahamins are not left at the mercy of fluctuating oil prices and external economic pressures.”

“We have the opportunity today to make a choice that will echo through generations. We can choose to harness the sun’s abundant energy, reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, and take control of our energy future.”

Minister of Energy and Transport JoBeth ColebyDavis said several Family Islands had been selected to be a part of the renewable energy systems: Abaco, Andros, Bimini, Eleuthera, Exuma, Long Island, Rum Cay, San Salvador, and Berry Islands.

Mrs Coleby–Davis said each Family Island has a unique requirement for generations and load levels.

Asked for the estimated cost in savings consumers on the Family Islands will see once the energy systems are implemented, Mrs Coleby–Davis couldn’t say.

She noted the project is still in the early phases.

“We are going to be going after the best cost and the best cost is what is

less than what BPL is presently spending to maintain those Family Islands,” Mrs Coleby–Davis said.

She added that officials will commence site visitations on the Family Islands next week Monday. The first island to be assessed will be Eleuthera.

Cat Island was among the islands not included in the programme.

“We have funding through the IDB and so certain islands were segregated,” Mrs Colbey-Davis said. “But if not, this minister will ensure that it happens for every Family Island and the prime minister would not allow it no other way.”

World-class firms were called to participate in the bidding process of the project. Independent power producers were also asked to propose comprehensive “microgrid solutions.”

The submission deadline for the RFP is January 26, 2024.

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, December 8, 2023, PAGE 5

RBDF recruiting drop over Haiti from page one The United Nations Security Council approved a year-long multinational security mission to Haiti in October.

A delegation from Kenya, the country leading the mission, visited Haiti this week before dispatching a team of officers to that country next year. The legality of Kenya’s mission has been challenged in that country’s courts, which remains unresolved even though Kenya’s plans continue to be finalised.

Commodore King said the training regimen for the 150 officers selected for the mission has evolved to deal with Haiti’s growing challenges.

He said a year ago, countering criminal gangs in Haiti was the objective, so initial training strictly focused on infantry optics in an urban setting.

POLICE guard outside Haiti’s National Police station in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on November 30.

Photo: Odelyn Joseph/AP “When I speak of it and other much-needed includes electricity supply, changing, the criminal goods from being cleared communications, all of gangs are now blocking and shipped. those required amenities humanitarian aid from get“In addition to the society needs.” ting to those who need it fuel, they are now creatMr King said the RBDF most,” he said yesterday, ing obstructions for all of had not received explicit adding they are obstructing the major infrastructure in instructions regarding its ports, preventing supplies Haiti. Critical infrastructure role or functions in Haiti,

but would send three platoons of 50 people to Haiti, with officers spending four months there.

He said people have been selected following the United Nations’ criteria.

“Those persons have been selected from all of the main branches within the Royal Bahamas Defence Force — intelligence, administration, operations, planning, communications,” he said. “You need persons from all these disciplines, including interpreters, persons from our welfare unit, or chaplaincy office, and so those persons who would have been deliberately selected.”

He said defence officers will train with police officers participating in saturation patrols and anti-gang operations. He said US special operations observers are also observing RBDF training exercises.

“We reached out to Central America and South

American counterparts, Chile and Argentina, who have peacekeeping centres of excellence, and we would send persons as instructors to be trained,” he said.

He said Jamaica has offered to be a site for key training “to ensure that everyone is operating at a common rules of engagement, use of force, common doctrine, language and everything.”

The commodore noted the RBDF has experience in peacekeeping missions, referencing a UN Peacekeeping mission to Haiti in 1994-1995.

“We’re fortunate that most of those young officers and marines who were a part of that peacekeeping mission are the planners today who are now preparing this next group to go into Haiti,” he said. “So we have to have the experience and professional development.”

MIGRATION DOWN OVERALL - BUT RISE IN THOSE HEADED TO THE US from page one and Ecuadorian in surging numbers as of late,” he said.

“The northern Bahamas, the mixed nationality migration to the state of Florida continues to increase.”

He said people from 28 nationalities tried to migrate to Florida, half of which were Haitian.

“We are looking at absolute figures of 1,500 migrants detained versus 800 for fiscal year 22,” he added. “In the southern Bahamas, Haitian nationals, we’ve seen a significant, a very significant decrease

in irregular migration from Haiti to The Bahamas compared to previous years.”

“Specifically, looking at years 2023 to 2022, we would have experienced a percentage decrease of some 22 per cent, that is 2,800 migrants versus 3,600 for 2022. I’m pleased to report that there have been no migrant landings in The Bahamas for the year 2023, reported, detected, or otherwise.”

Nonetheless, officials have seen a larger percentage of women and children comprising migration numbers.

“We continue to fortify our presence in that

area,” Mr King said of the northern Bahamas. “We’ve experienced significant success, a number of arrests.”

He said in one incident, 30 Ecuadorians were found near Cat Cay. He said The Bahamas has experienced a diminished migration number of attempts by Cubans.

Instead, the United States has experienced a steady flow of Cuban nationals in the southern Florida strait.

“For the fiscal years 22 and 23, an average of some 3,500 Cuban nationals have been intercepted attempting to reach a state of Florida,” he said.

The commodore also spoke about the other transnational threats, specifically illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing.

“We’re now faced with a shift in their strategy as we speak right now. What we’re encountering, those Dominican fishing vessels are now using the territorial seas of the Republic of Cuba,” he said.

“They are now sending those smaller vessels, those skiffs across The Bahama Channel on the verge of the Great Bahama Bank, which makes it extremely difficult to detect those small skiffs with two people on board.

“They would move in a clandestine way at night back to the middle of the channel, a much larger vessel, still small, but secure the fishery products, then move to the mother ship in the Cuban territorial seas.

“We have moved resources. We intend to flood the banks. We intend to dominate that area.”

Meanwhile, he discussed the proliferation of the smuggling of illicit firearms, ammunition parts and components.

He said about 350 weapons have been seized in operations involving RBDF members.

“The methods of maritime trafficking: use of containers, sailing vessels, fishing vessels, go-fast vessels, merchant vessels, semi-submersible vessels, and a term called parasite modality. That is where those large container vessels, freight vessels,” he said.

The drugs tend to be tied to the underside of the vessels, which encounter smaller vessels that receive those drugs.

There was an 11 per cent decrease in illicit drug arrests, but in terms of poundage, there was an increase of 217 per cent.

MINISTER SAYS SORRY FOR JUNKANOO TICKET DIFFICULTY

By LETRE SWEETING Tribune Staff Reporter lsweeting@tribunemedia.net YOUTH, Sports and Culture Minister Mario Bowleg apologised to those who could not get premium tickets for the upcoming Boxing Day parade because of limited seating on Bay Street.

JCNP chairman Dion Miller said 80 per cent of the parade’s tickets have been sold, while 30 per cent of New Year’s Day tickets have been sold.

“As the minister responsible for culture and Junkanoo, we can only apologise to individuals that they were not fortunate enough to buy tickets on time and whatever technical difficulties might have occurred,” Mr Bowleg said during a press briefing at the Office of the Prime Minister.”

Frustrated residents complained about challenges buying tickets through the ALIV Events app earlier

this week.

“ALIV is doing their best to ensure that it is fixed,” Mr Bowleg said. “But as we move toward the new age, we must move away from having handheld tickets.

This is a new generation of technology that is coming forward.”

Officials have noted that 37 per cent of prime seats in Rawson Square and the front of Scotiabank are reserved for various partners.

Mr Bowleg said the ministry places 300 seats each year for government officials, judiciary members, and other prominent officials.

“We support Junkanoo Corporation of New Providence (JCNP) and their pursuit to please their corporate sponsors as it relates to having seating arrangements made for them financially because they are the ones who assist the government in ensuring this parade goes on,” he said.

“And, yes, we probably

are at the stage where we are outgrowing Bay Street and the seating arrangements, but in due time, as with everything in life, we make changes as necessary.”

Mr Miller said he anticipates this year’s parade will be among the biggest ever.

“We anticipate this will be some of the largest parades that we have seen in our recent times and indeed since coming back from COVID-19, the love and passion for Junkanoo has returned in a massive way,” he said.

He noted that Junkanoo parades are expensive to produce.

“Junkanoo is a very, very expensive thing, both at the group level and at the individual level,” he said. “It takes a Category A group a quarter of a million dollars to perform on Bay Street.

The average individual Junkanoo performer spends anywhere between $3,500 to $5,000 on his or her costume.”

PAGE 6, Friday, December 8, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

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

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Publisher/Editor 1903-1914

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With a little help from our friends THE restoration of the Elbow Reef Lighthouse in Hope Town, Abaco, is an unqualified success.

Yesterday marked the reopening of the lighthouse – but it is a journey that has taken years and a great deal of effort.

We shall come to the story of the restoration in a moment – but take a look at the photographs in today’s Tribune from the event for a moment first. You will find them in both our main section and a colour spread in our Weekend section.

Among the photographs from Tribune photographer Dante Carrer, you will see a united line-up of diplomats to The Bahamas.

There is US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Usha Pitts alongside Chinese ambassador Dai Qingli and UK High Commissioner Tom Hartley.

There are smiles on all sides and a great show of unity in support of the project.

In this world where too often there are international divisions or frictions between nations, it can only be a good thing for The Bahamas to see such cordiality.

Harnessing such international goodwill can only benefit our nation. Of course, as a nation we should be able to stand alone as best we can – but how much easier it is to stand alongside friends.

Such friendship is already on show – the lighthouse project is a testament to that.

A grant from the US Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation made the project possible. The grant, to the tune of more than $472,000, was the most significant investment the US Embassy has ever made in the country.

That does not mean it was all done by outside hands – far from it. The Elbow Reef Lighthouse Society has shown commitment and energy to bring the restoration about.

Heather Forde-Prosa, the society’s development director, said there has been help from the Minister of Tourism, help from the Port Department – and more help will be needed to ensure maintenance in the years ahead.

The outcome is more than just symbolic. The lighthouse serves as a guide for ship captains. It helps to protect. It helps to save lives. And it stands on the landscape as a landmark down the ages, and for the years to come.

What a fitting tribute it would be if that lighthouse can also serve as a guide for our future – to show how we can work with our international friends for the betterment of our nation.

Ms Pitts talked about how the lighthouse “was built by the British, its restoration was funded by the Americans, but now and forever it will belong to the Bahamian people”.

Together, we can do great things – greater than can be achieved by one pair of hands alone.

It would be a wonderful thing if Elbow Reef can not only light the way for ship captains, but light the way for our nation. And our friends.

THE VIEW from Elbow Reef Lighthouse during the official opening following the US Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation Restoration Project yesterday.

Photo: Dante Carrer

Readers have say on FNM divide

AFTER FNM leader Michael Pintard said Desmond Bannister’s comments about the FNM’s need for a convention were disappointing, readers had their say on the issue.

Bahamianson said: “Rumble in the fnm. And the perpetual, political sagas continue. What time are you cutting the ham and turkey?”

TalRussell added: “Like it or not, --- T-Shirts the colour red --- Always signal danger and aggression From within. --- Yes?” LastManStanding responded: “Don’t get too cocky Tal, the PHellP old guard are on their collective way to their eternal fates and it won’t be pretty in there either when the Christie/Davis era politicos say goodbye to the world.”

John said: “Well conventions are to sort out differences and elect or reelect officers including the leader of the party. Bring it on then!”

Sheeprunner12 added: “Pintard surely has a way with words. After all, he is a playwright.

“But, Pintard should NOT question Bannister’s credibility. That is not going to improve Pintard’s stock in the FNM. “However, the forces are aligning... Call the Convention asap. The sooner, the better. Time to close ranks and remove this wutless, hapless New Day crew from Office.”

Speaking after the earlier story regarding Mr Bannister’s letter calling for the convention, Stillwaters said: “Bottom line.....there has to be a huge fight for leadership soon because Pintard is just not it. So, get ready for a nasty bout within this party.”

Bahamianbychoice said: “Yes agreed, but Bannister

LETTERS letters@tribunemedia.net needs to go and crawl back under his rock as he is not up for any leadership position. Especially after is petty and unprofessional behaviour displayed last time when he had oversight of BPL and that Ministry.’

TheMessenger replied: “Agreed, and his support of Richard Johnson further robs Banister of any credibility as Johnson has always been a crude & rude rebel rouser by anyone’s stretch of imagination.”

Sheeprunner12 said: “or those who were old enough to remember, any sensible FNM only has to think of what happened at the 1977 election when there were at least three or four different factions ......... BDP, FNDM, SDP & FNM. “And how did that work out??????”

LastManStanding said: “A convention will not solve the FNM’s long term problems. The biggest problem that the FNM faces is that there are no politically astute leaders in the party outside of Ingraham. People said that Papa was crazy for telling the FNM not to contest the by-election, but here we are with a bunch of money wasted in a vain attempt to capture a PHellP safe seat on top of increased internal strife. Any time that seat voted FNM historically was an anomaly, all one needed to do was look at the voting history and realize that any money spent on that race was wasted.

“I feel that Pintard is being unfairly ragged because there was no chance of the FNM winning that seat outside of a blowout general election

victory, but I also feel that it showed poor vision and a lack of wisdom to contest it in the first place. I stand by prediction that the CoI will displace the FNM as the primary opposition to the PHellP in the long term.

The change won’t happen right away, but I don’t see the FNM being able to continue as it currently is in the long term.”

IslandWarrior said: “Unfortunately, no one advised the Free National Movement (FNM) to reenter the political scene.

However, another five years of the petty, vindictive, corrupt Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) in power should be sufficient for Bahamians to forget the poor performance of the previous Minnis administration. Hopefully, the remaining members of that administration will take the hint and leave Bahamian politics for good.

“Boy we miss Papa” ...hint, hint, if only for one more term.”

• After a task force was announced to examine water safety after a fatal shark attack, readers spoke up on the matter.

Bahamianson said: “Stop shark feeding in the Bahamas. It naturally makes sense. In the US, you do not feed the bears because of the same. The pigs in exuma see a boat and start swimming to it because of the association of humans with feeding. No chumming waters on Potters cay and Montague , no shark feeding of any type. We have to show the world that the Bahamas is not a Banana Republic.”

ScubaSteve said: “I’m glad to see that the Hotel & Tourism Assoc is going to look into more safety and to maintain certain standards.

The ferry incident over near Blue Lagoon was much, much, much more alarming than the shark incident near Sandals. Being in control of a boat, monitoring the waves, wind, and weather, and being able to provide safety procedures during a boat accident are things that should be very common and fairly easy to master for a business/ industry and just people in general. Naturally, on the other hand, being in control of sharks is an entirely different ballgame and nearly impossible.”

• Join the conversation at www.tribune242.com

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, December 8, 2023, PAGE 7

Police justified in shooting Saunders from page one She said her son became angry when she mentioned Andrew Farquharson, a man whose death caused Saunders to spend 12 years in prison.

Saunders was reportedly convicted in 2006 and released in 2018.

Ms Cox said her son told her not to embarrass

him, became enraged and pulled out a chain with a pocket knife attached.

When she saw the weapon, she said she told the deceased she was leaving, only for Saunders to lock the door of the foyer and tell her: “You aren’t going anywhere.”

Bishop Trent Davis, the pastor at the church, testified that Saunders threatened him with a

pocket knife on a chain and demanded $3,000. The bishop barricaded himself in his office with his father and his staff.

Eventually, Saunders left the church.

Inspector Arnold Strachan testified that footage showed Saunders pointing a gun and firing bullets in the direction of police officers Corporal Dominique Bain and PC Calvino Jones as

they passed in their police car.

Saunders then allegedly ran into the yard of house #20 on Antigua Street, where he stayed for about three minutes, removing his shirt before trying to jump over the wall as the officers returned from another direction.

The officers then shot him, causing him to fall near the wall.

Videos of the incident from two sets of security footage were played in court yesterday.

One showed the defendant walking down the street in a peach coluored shirt before brandishing a weapon at police. The other appeared to show a firefight between the officers and the deceased. Neither footage had audio.

The officers appeared

relieved after the verdict was read.

Acting Coroner Kara Turnquest-Deveaux presided over the inquest.

Bjorn Ferguson represented the two officers. Angelo Whitfield marshalled the evidence.

Mr Ferguson said Corporal Bain is the first Bahamian woman to kill someone in the line of duty.

SEVEN IN COURT OVER $14K THEFT

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

BNT takes part in visit to US national parks THE Bahamas National Trust’s (BNT) Education Department recently participated in a six-day exchange initiative with the US National Park Service (NPS).

The seven-member team visited the Everglades National Park, Big Cypress National Reserve, and the Biscayne National Park in South Florida.

The trip included meetings with park officials and deep dives into national park education, interpretation, volunteer program optimisation, and conceptual planning - tools which will be useful as the BNT develops its strategic plan for the next five years.

During the exchange, the BNT team toured national park facilities, and examined educational and interpretive programmes present at the three parks.

The group also got hands-on and participated in the ecological practice of “slogging” in the sloughs. A slough, pronounced “sloo”, is a type of wetland characterised by its slow-moving or stagnant water. It provides habitats for many different species of animals and plants and are common in South Florida.

BNT director of education Portia Sweeting said: “In The Bahamas, our national parks are important outdoor classrooms for understanding our island ecosystems, and the role they play as habitats for fisheries and spaces for nature tourism and recreation. By visiting these South Florida national parks that share similar environments with many of ours, we can reflect on the interpretive experiences they provide and how we can incorporate similar ones at our parks.”

The BNT group also attended the Big Cypress Swamp Heritage Festival.

The Bahamas National Trust and the US National Park Service enjoy a strong and collaborative partnership of more than 60 years. The latter is one of the original scientific institutions that serves as a part of the BNT’s governing council. The two organisations have a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) dedicated to sharing planning and designs for the development of protected areas; examining the role of national parks in promoting economic development through tourism; and developing methods to increase community support for protected areas.

For more information about BNT, visit www.bnt.bs and follow/subscribe to its social media channels on Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube.

SEVEN men were each granted $5,000 bail yesterday after they were accused of stealing $14,000 worth of electronics from a store during a break-in last month.

Magistrate Shaka Serville charged Raheem Johnson, 26, Jason Johnson, 19, Robert Johnson, 27, Daryo Fox, 25, Schenider Doreleus, 18, Markentosh Saintil, 18, and Kinie Simeon, 18, with shop-breaking, stealing and receiving.

Alex Morley represented the three Johnson brothers.

The defendants are accused of breaking into K-Tech Store on Robinson Road between 1am and 9am on November 2. They reportedly stole $14,000 worth of electronics from the store, including smartphones, watches, tablets, video game consoles and speakers.

The defendants were arrested on December 4 at 37 Florida Court after they were allegedly found with two Nintendo Switch consoles, two Samsung A30 cellphones and a gold Invicta watch believed to have been stolen.

All seven pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Mr Morley, in his bail application, indicated that his clients, Robert and Raheem, were both employed and that none of the three brothers posed a flight risk due to their ties to the country. He said all three were fit candidates for bail, adding that Raheem was the provider for a young child.

The prosecution had no objection to the accused having bail, but asked that conditions be attached.

Six of the seven accused are expected to sign in at the Grove Police Station on either every second and last Wednesday or Thursday of the month by 7pm. Raheem Johnson is the only defendant expected to sign in every Monday, Thursday and Saturday by 7pm. This is because he is the only defendant not expected to wear a monitoring device as a term of his bail, as he expressed concerns it would disrupt his work.

The teenage defendants must also obey a 9pm to 6am daily curfew at their residences.

Their trial begins on February 27, 2024.

MAN ACCUSED OVER DEADLY SHOOTING OF RICARDO ROLLE

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net A MAN is behind bars after he allegedly shot and killed a man in New Providence last week.

Acting Chief Magistrate Roberto Reckley charged Brentiano Sands, 22, with murder.

Sands is accused of causing the death of Ricardo

Rolle on November 27.

The accused was told that his matter would be moved to the Supreme Court through a voluntary bill of indictment (VBI).

Sands will be sent to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services until the higher court grants him bail.

Sands’ VBI is slated for service on April 4, 2024.

PAGE 8, Friday, December 8, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

Cultivating hope and effective community problem-solving strategies

By Kim Williams-Pulfer

COMMUNITY Feedback Exercise conducted by One Eleuthera Foundation.

Board Director, One Eleuthera Foundation IF you are like me, you may feel that our current daily feed of media reports covers a significant amount of bad news. It is important to pay attention to and stay informed about these daunting reports, which provide a window to experiences of conflict and suffering. Yet, while we can observe these problems and potentially feel a sense of helplessness, I also want to discuss how a commitment to continuous learning can provide possibilities of hope in troubling times.

Serving as a board member for One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) provides me with hope. First, I am hopeful for the future when I consider OEF’s powerful mission. OEF seeks to drive local solutions, empowering people to use their unique talents and experiences to impact lasting, transformational change.

Regionally, OEF’s comprehensive approach spanning five core areas of development and stellar track record stands tall among third sector organizations in the region. Its bold mission supports a holistic ecosystem of programmes and initiatives, providing a 360-degree approach to community development

and serving as one regional exemplar. To complete this boundary-spanning work, OEF has taught me that such a mission and corresponding vision require strong governance that centres on deep learning.

I also see possibilities of hope when I can contribute critical lessons I have learned elsewhere to help drive positive social change at home. A sage of our time, John A. Powell, defines belonging as “… more

than being seen. Belonging entails having a meaningful voice and the opportunity to participate in the design of social and cultural structures.” I remain committed to researching and documenting the practices of the third sector within the Caribbean and elsewhere, especially for those who have to fight for a seat at various tables of influence.

I utilize the lessons derived from my work to guide my leadership and advance

the mission of empowering Bahamians. I offer some of these lessons to you for reflection. Although expressed through the lens of the third sector, these lessons can be applied in many different contexts to bring about positive outcomes.

1. Identify the true source of the problems we seek to solve: Organizations can lose sight of the source of a problem, develop unnecessary strategies, and fail to make meaningful change. However, it is possible for any organization to recalibrate its efforts by utilizing accurate data and useful insights to correctly address problems at their root cause. I recently spent some time working with and learning from the lessons gleaned by a private philanthropic foundation. This foundation made a big bet on addressing a major challenge and sought deep community impact. However, the foundation’s strategy to improve social outcomes received pushback from local communities because community experiences were not fully considered in the initial design of the foundation’s strategy. The foundation first rolled out their strategy with programmes and activities aimed at providing support to a broad swathe of communities. Yet the strategy did not clearly identify how specific demographics like ethnicity, age, rural or urban residents hoped to engage with the foundation’s proposed programming.

The foundation chose to pivot, and this decision allowed them to redesign their strategy to ensure that they were listening to the needs of local community members, the very people they hoped to serve. They also designed a diverse range of evaluations and assessments, including surveys, focus groups, and storytelling, to monitor whether their updated strategy had truly incorporated the insights that local communities related to the distinct problems that individuals and specific communities faced.

The foundation’s decision to deepen its partnerships with communities, in large part, helped to bring about the desired impact that their strategy sought to accomplish. Clearly identifying the source of the problems by engaging in robust learning can bring rich returns on achieving improved social outcomes and success.

2. Use the plethora of tools at our disposal wisely: The good news is that we have an unprecedented amount of technology and innovation at our disposal to increase efficiency and connection. Yet, we also see the problems associated with these kinds of advancements. Recently, I had the pleasure of moderating a conversation on the promise and perils of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for creatives and writers. Panelists with expertise in journalism, education, research, and IT discussed how AI has the potential to serve all sectors.

For example, third sector organizations use AI to analyze funding trends and enhance communication to reach new donors. However, AI also poses problems related to intellectual property and as a human-made system, can also amplify dangerous biases that already exist in society.

The panel experts noted that the key to managing our use of this tool requires us to bear the responsibility of learning about its promise and perils, support our youth in recognizing those challenges, and find ways as teachers, advocates, or through technical support to ensure that AI is safe for all.

Nonprofits should seek out training in ethics along with the possibilities of AI and commit to sharing best practices within the sector. AI is one of the many tools that can help propel our missions and work. We should seek them out, but our use must be balanced with our discernment.

3. Be the change There is so much to fret and complain about, but we cannot sit on the sidelines, failing to commit ourselves

“to being the change we want to see in the world.”

We all have something to contribute, and our lived experiences and cultural backgrounds provide a wonderful starting point. Many years ago, I remember interviewing a young Bahamian civil society leader, and she described her approach to leadership, which I still appreciate to this day, “I may be from a small island, but I have a big vision.” We should harness our unique stories and capabilities to drive change. Active participation in making positive change requires bringing our authentic selves to our work along with a lot of sweat equity, but it also means learning from others.

Here’s another lesson from a grassroots organizer who received it from a mentor, “God gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason.”

We should use our voices but never forget to listen to and incorporate the useful wisdom of others.

These lessons, and others that you can identify in your engagement with positive missions, can provide us with some fuel to meet the demands of an era of intense challenges.

We can work towards addressing the bad news by finding hope drawn from a commitment to continuous learning, reflection and adaptation.

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THE TRIBUNE

Friday, December 8, 2023, PAGE 9

Tendering my resignation as an adult DIANE Phillips is taking a rare break this week and letting her daughter, Paula Welch, step up to the keyboard with a little word magic of her own.

Enjoy.

I

hereby tender my resignation as an adult.

To whom it may concern: I am hereby officially tendering my resignation as an adult. I have decided I would like to accept the responsibilities of an 8-year-old again.

I want to go to McDonald’s and think that it is a four star restaurant. I want to sail sticks across a fresh mud puddle and make ripples with rocks.

I want to think M&Ms are better than money because you can eat them.

I want to play dodgeball at recess and paint with watercolours in art. I want to lie under a big oak tree

and run a lemonade stand with my friends on a hot summer’s day.

I want to return to a time when life was simple.

When all you knew were colours, multiplication tables and nursery rhymes, but that didn’t bother you because you didn’t know what you didn’t know and you didn’t care. All you knew was to be happy because you were blissfully unaware of all the things that should make you worried or upset.

I want to think the world is fair. That everyone is honest and good. I want to believe that anything is possible. Somewhere in our youth, we matured and learned too much.

There are nuclear weapons, war, prejudice and

abused children. Lies, unhappy marriages, illness, pain and death. A world where companies poison our water and our soil, and our children kill.

What happened to the times when we thought everyone would live forever because we did not grasp the concept of death? When the worst thing in the world was if someone took the jump rope from you or picked you last for the softball team. I want to be oblivious to the complexities of life and be overly excited by the little things again.

I want to return to the days when children played hide-‘n-seek outside instead of being glued to a television, tablet or cellphone screen, when video

PAULA WELCH: I am hereby officially tendering my resignation as an adult.

games were as harmless as PacMan instead of spineripping, blood-splattering mind-numbers like Mortal Combat and TV still had some shows on that

weren’t about sex, killing and lies.

I remember being naïve and thinking everyone was happy because I was. Afternoons were

spent climbing trees and fences and riding my bike.

Danger was daring to pick fruit from a neighbour’s tree.

I never worried about time, bills or where I was going to find the money to fix my car. I used to wonder what I was going to be when I grew up, not worry about what I’ll do if this doesn’t work out. I want to live simple again.

I don’t want my day to consist of computer crashes, mountains of paperwork, depressing news, how to survive more days in the month than there is money in the bank, doctor bills, gossip, illness and loss of loved ones. I want to believe in the power of smiles, hugs, a kind word, truth, justice, peace, the imagination, mankind and making angels in the snow.

So here’s my checkbook and my car keys, my credit card bills and my 401K statements. I am officially resigning from adulthood.

And if you want to discuss this further you’ll have to catch me first, cause “Tag! You’re it...”

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Japan pledges $4.5B more in aid for Ukraine, including $1B in humanitarian funds

By MARI YAMAGUCHI Associated Press TOKYO (AP) — Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida pledged $4.5 billion to Ukraine, including $1 billion in humanitarian aid to help support the war-torn country’s recovery effort in an online summit of leading industrial nations.

Kishida made the announcement late Wednesday in Tokyo while hosting his last Group of Seven summit as this year’s chairperson.

The $1 billion humanitarian and recovery aid includes funding for generators and other power supplies for the Ukrainian people to survive the winter, as well as measures to clear mines planted

by Russia, the Foreign Ministry said.

The remaining $3.5 billion includes funding for credit guarantees for World Bank loans to Ukraine.

“This is significant support for the recovery of Ukraine and our economy, said Japan stands firmly with Ukraine and our people,” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in his message posted on X, formerly Twitter, “We will keep working together to bring our common victory closer.”

Japan has donated more than $7 billion to Ukraine since the war started, mostly for humanitarian assistance, and military equipment limited to non-lethal weapons because of legal limitations under its pacifist constitution.

But on Thursday, Ukrainian Ambassador to Japan Sergiy Korsunsky said his country and Japan are discussing a possible Japanese provision of anti-missile defence and anti-drone equipment.

“It’s not a lethal weapon.

Actually, it’s a humanitarian assistance,” he said at the U.S.

U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel, left, Ukraine Ambassador to Japan Sergey Korsunsky, centre, and acting secretary general of the governing Liberal Democratic Party Seiji Kihara speak to the media in Tokyo, Japan, Thursday. (AP Photo/Mari Yamaguchi) Embassy in Tokyo. “Because when you have Iranian drones flying over you, and they are very difficult to detect ... but if you protect yourself from those drones, this is not a lethal weapon.”

Seiji Kihara, acting secretary general of Kishida’s governing party, said Japan has pacifist policies but the country will continue a dialogue on providing the most helpful support for Ukraine by

using Japan’s expertise, including mine clearing.

U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel, citing Russian attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, praised Japan’s additional supply of generators to help people survive the severe winter weather.

Japan is discussing easing of its weapons export restrictions to allow equipment co-developed by

other countries, to be provided to Ukraine.

Japan seeks to bolster its defence industry amid growing threats from China, North Korea and Russia, while expanding support for countries under invasion, like Ukraine.

The G7 members agreed to impose new sanctions on Russia, including banning the country’s diamonds. The G7 leaders, in

their joint statement, said they will introduce import restrictions on nonindustrial diamonds mined, processed, or produced in Russia, followed by additional restrictions on the import of Russian diamonds processed in third countries.

The G7 is comprised of the United States, Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the European Union.

PAGE 10, Friday, December 8, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

ZONTA CLUB OF NEW PROVIDENCE While people concentrate on the physical health of their children to ensure good growth, the mental health of children is just as important for their overall well-being.

With this in mind, a special seminar was held for parents, teachers, counsellors and other professionals who deal with children.

The aim was to make them more aware of the signs of children with mental health issues, leaving them better prepared to respond and alleviate situations that could take a downward turn.

The Zonta Club of New Providence (ZCNP) utilised their 16 Days of Activism to End Violence Against Women & Girls in this unique way this year Members wanted to cover a poignant topic that is often overlooked but is significant in ensuring more healthy Bahamian families. Stable relationships and loving families are some of the building blocks of a society where gender-based violence is no longer prevalent.

ZCNP hosted the webinar: “Mental Health & Your Child - What to Look for & How to Help”. The webinar featured two presenters with a wealth of experience in dealing with children and mental health issues.

The first speaker was Sgt 3220 Russell, School Resource Officer, RM Bailey.

Ariman Russell is the Administrative Sergeant for the School Policing Unit.

Ariman started his policing career on the island of Andros where he spent a year and a half before transferring to the Grove Police Station, New Providence. He worked at the Grove Police Station as an investigator for 10 years

HERMÉS HEIR COULD GIVE FORTUNE TO HIS GARDENER THE Hermés fashion empire is famed the world over - and now Fortune magazine is reporting that the billionaire grandson of its founder is reportedly planning to adopt his 51-year-old gardener as part of an acrimonious succession plan.

Fortune reported that 80-year-old Nicolas Puech is in the proces of making his former gardener and handyman, said to be from a “modest Moroccan family” his legal child.

Puech is unmarried and childless, and owns about 5-6% of the company, worth between $10.3bn and $11.4bn. The 51-year-old gardener is reported to be married to a Spanish woman with whom he has two children, and according to Tribune de Geneve he could inherit half of Puech’s welath.

Fortune reported that Puech has already given the gardener the keys to two properties worth a combined $5.9m.

TRUMP APPEALING IMMUNITY REJECTION FORMER US President Donald Trump is appealing a ruling that found he is not immune from criminal prosecution as he runs out of opportunities to delay or even derail an upcoming trial on charges that he plotted to overturn the results of the 2020 election.

Lawyers for the 2024 Republican presidential primary frontrunner filed a notice of appeal yesterday indicating they will challenge US District Judge Tanya Chutkan’s decision rejecting Trump’s bid to dismiss the case headed to trial in Washington, DC, in March.

The one-page filing was accompanied by a request from the Trump team to freeze deadlines in the case.

SGT 3220 Russell, school resource officer, RM Bailey.

JOIN THE CLUB OUR Clubs and Societies page is a chance for you to share your group’s activities with our readers.

To feature on our Clubs and Societies page, submit your report to clubs@tribunemedia.net, with “Clubs Page” written in the subject line.

For more information about the page, contact Stephen Hunt on 826-2242.

and school policing for an accumulated amount of 4 years.

In July 2021, Sgt 3220 Russell was one of two officers who were selected to be internationally trained and certified by

the National Association of School Resource Officers in Denver, Colorado.

This training gave him the qualifications to work as a School Resource Officer anywhere in the world.

At present, he serves as the School Resource Officer for the RM Bailey High School and the Administrative Sergeant for the School Policing Unit. He is committed to changing the lives of our youths and extending his assistance wherever possible with the goal of building a better community.

Sgt Russell said that young people may turn to substance abuse to escape the stresses of their lives.

It is important to decrease the stressors they face. A

KAVITA GARIKAPARTHI, trained counsellor. stable home life, supportive school and church family help to cover the child and uplift them emotionally.

Vaping and marijuana use, he said, remains prevalent in the schools. Because of the nicotine in the vape, he added, children may retaliate violently. They must be fully engaged in positive activities to avoid these pitfalls.

Also addressing the ZCNP webinar was Kavita Garikaparthi, a trained counsellor. She is originally from India but she has made the Bahamas her home since 1999. She is the wife of a surgeon and a mother of two children.

She is a qualified counselor with a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling.

SHe has been working in that capacity since 2007 as an active volunteer of the Crisis Centre and also was the counselor/group facilitator with Dr. David Allen’s Outreach program “People Helping People” since 2014 in the Prison. Unfortunately, the latter program has come to a halt since the onset of the pandemic.

She also works privately with the University of West Indies as a counselor for the medical students.

She found that all too often, parents forget that their children deserve respect , too. Parents will talk ‘at’ instead of ‘to’ their children. Because of this, they never really understand or appreciate how their children feel

or what they are thinking.

Good communication, she advised, is a key to establishing new levels of respect in the family and confidence for the child.

The ZCNP webinar: “Mental Health & Your Child - What to Look for & How to Help” was held on Sunday, November 26, 2023. The 16 Days of Activism to End Violence Against Women & Girls and the Orange the World campaign are hosted in the Bahamas by the Zonta Club of New Providence every year. It begins on November 25 - the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women & Girls, and ends on December 10, United Nations Human Rights Day.

Israel designates safe zone in Gaza - but concerns it will offer little relief MUWASI, Gaza Strip Associated Press ISRAEL has designated a small slice of mostly undeveloped land along Gaza’s Mediterranean coast as a safe zone — a place where waves of people fleeing the war can find protection from airstrikes and receive humanitarian supplies for their families.

The reality? The area of Muwasi is a makeshift tent camp where thousands of dazed Palestinians live in squalid conditions in scattered farm fields and waterlogged dirt roads. Their numbers have swelled in recent days as people flee an Israeli military offensive in nearby areas of the southern Gaza Strip.

Roughly 8 square miles in southwest Gaza, Muwasi lies at the heart of a heated debate between Israel and international humanitarian organizations over the safety of the territory’s civilians.

Israel has offered Muwasi as a solution for protecting people uprooted from their homes and seeking safety from the heavy fighting between its troops and Hamas militants. The United Nations and relief groups say Muwasi is a poorly planned attempt to impose a solution for people who have been displaced and offers no guarantee of safety in a territory where people have faced the dangers of continued airstrikes in other areas where the army ordered them to go.

“How can a zone be safe in a war zone if it is only unilaterally decided by one part of the conflict?” said Philippe Lazzarini, commissioner-general of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, or UNRWA. “It can only promote the false feeling that it will be safe.”

The area has no running water or bathrooms, assistance and international humanitarian groups are nowhere to be found, and the tents provide little protection from the coming winter’s cool, rainy weather.

“It is very cold and there are no necessities of life,” said Moneer Nabrees, who fled Gaza City with some 30 family members. He recently arrived in Muwasi and now lives in a nylon tent with displaced family members. “There are lines for everything, even to get drinking water,” he said.

Some don’t even have enough materials to build a tent.

“At night we were freezing,” said Saada Hothut, a mother of four from Gaza City who faced another night with little protection from the elements. “We were covering ourselves with nylon.”

UNRWA and other international aid organizations do not recognize the camp and are not providing services there.

Yet Muwasi is poised to play an increasingly important role in the protection of Gaza’s civilians, something Israel’s allies have implored it to do as it tries to eradicate Hamas.

Some three-quarters of the territory’s 2.3 million people have been displaced, in some cases multiple times, since Israel launched its war in response to Hamas’ Oct. 7 crossborder attack that left some 1,200 dead. More than 17,000 people in Gaza have died in the war, according to the territory’s Health Ministry, which does not differentiate between civilian and combatant deaths.

Hundreds of thousands of people relocated to southern Gaza from the north after Israeli ground troops entered the area. Now, as Israel widens its ground offensive to the south, tens of thousands of people have found themselves on the move yet again — with few safe places to go.

Israel first mentioned Muwasi as a humanitarian zone in late October. It’s not clear how many people Israel believes can live there, and it blames the United Nations for the poor conditions.

Col Elad Goren, a senior official in the military body overseeing

Palestinian civilian affairs, said Israel has been allowing the entry of temporary shelters and winter gear.

“At the end of the day, these are UN goods. It’s their responsibility to collect the goods and distribute it to the people,” he said.

He said Israel does not expect Gaza’s entire population to crowd into Muwasi and that there are an additional 150 “shelter areas,” including schools and medical clinics, that are coordinated with the UN and other organizations. But the army considers Muwasi a permanent safe zone. He noted that the army did not respond to a pair of Hamas rocket launches from Muwasi on Wednesday.

“We understand the population needs a solution of where to be. We want to encourage the population to go to this zone where assistance will be delivered,” he said.

But international aid officials have warned that Israel has done nothing to create a true safe zone.

Even the US, Israel’s closest ally, has repeatedly said Palestinian civilians need more protection.

A joint statement signed by the leaders of some of the world’s largest humanitarian groups, including the top UN agencies, Care International, Mercy Corps, and the World Health Organization, said the area could not function as a safe zone until all sides pledge to refrain from fighting there.

“Without the right conditions, concentrating civilians in such zones in the context of active hostilities can raise the risk of attack and additional harm,” said the Nov. 16 statement.

In Muwasi, there’s little sign that any of that is happening, at least in a way that could support hundreds of thousands of people.

A group of international aid groups on Thursday condemned Israel’s calls for displaced Palestinians to head to Muwasi, describing it as unfit.

“Seventy percent of the surface of that area is deserted,” said Danila Zizi, from Handicap International’s office in the Palestinian territories. “There are no services, there are no schools, there is no health services. There is nothing.”

Instead, people are fending for themselves. Many sleep in their cars or set up their own tents. Like nearly everywhere in Gaza, the aid is not enough for everyone and many are forced to buy their own food, water and firewood.

As Israel has intensified its ground operation in recent days, there has been a sharp rise in the number of displaced people heading to this coastal area. Many have fled nearby Khan Younis and other southern areas that have become front lines of the conflict.

Despite being declared a humanitarian zone, nothing in Muwasi is now given away for free and a black market has sprouted up. Many basic food items cost 13 or 14 times more than they did before October 7.

With no aid shipments of food arriving, people are forced to venture out and buy whatever they can find. What remains is mostly canned items like tuna, but also rice and tomatoes that people cook over fires back at the camp.

Tents must be built from scratch, at a cost. Displaced families must purchase wood and nylon, then assemble their new home. Those who have no money hope that UNRWA and other organizations will bring aid.

Residents say that one of the most humiliating aspects of life is the lack of privacy and poor hygiene. There are no toilets, so people relieve themselves wherever they can. Some leave the camp and head to nearby hospitals to use their facilities.

The tents will provide little shelter during the coming winter months, when temperatures can dip into the single digits Celsius (mid40s Fahrenheit).

SPORTS PAGE 11

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2023

MLB stars come out in Futures Showcase

‘BUDDY’ AND PACERS ADVANCE TO NBA IN-SEASON TOURNAMENT FINAL

By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@tribunemedia.net

By WG RAMIREZ Associated Press

F

rom Bahamian Major League player Jasrado “Jazz” Chisholm Jr and coach Antoan Richardson to American icons Andrew Dawson, Derek Jeter and CC Sabathia, there was no shortage of stars for the local and international high school players to glean from as they got their opportunity to shine.

The Major Leaguers were on hand last night as they watched the inaugural Don’t Blink/Minority Baseball Prospects Futures Showcase at the Andre Rodgers Baseball Stadium

BAHAMIAN and American players participate in the inaugural Don’t Blink/Minority Baseball Prospects Futures Showcase yesterday at the Andre Rodgers Baseball Stadium.

Photo: Moise Amisial

SEE PAGE 13

SEE PAGE 12

SHOCKERS DOWN GIANTS 2-1, WIN CHAMPIONSHIP TROPHY

By TENAJH SWEETING Tribune Sports Reporter tsweeting@tribunemedia.net THE St Francis and Joseph Shockers had to make room for yet another championship trophy after the girls closed out their series against the Xavier’s Lower School Giants 2-1 in game three of the Catholic Board of Education Primary Schools Championships.

With the stakes high for both teams, the Shockers emerged with a narrow 13-10 victory yesterday at Loyola Hall. The girls joined the boys, who won their title on Wednesday in sweeping fashion, in celebration of the Shockers going two for two in both divisions.

Nkomo Ferguson, head coach of the Shockers,

SEE PAGE 13

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Tyrese Haliburton scored 27 points and the Indiana Pacers beat the Milwaukee Bucks 128-119 yesterday to advance to the championship game in the NBA’s inaugural In-Season Tournament.

On Saturday night, the Pacers will face the winner of the second semifinal between the Los Angeles Lakers and New Orleans Pelicans.

Myles Turner added 26 points for the Pacers.

Chavano “Buddy” Hield contributed eight points, 11

WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS: The Sts Francis & Joseph Shockers took home the girls’ championship for the Catholic Board of Education Primary Schools basketball season.

Photo: Tenajh Sweeting/Tribune Staff

SPORTS CALENDAR

Dec 2023

TERRENCE ‘RED EYE’ MCSWEENEY HONOURED

By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@tribunemedia.net FOR the tremendous work he has done over the years, veteran women’s basketball coach Terrence “Red Eye” McSweeney was honoured by The Hope Center during their men’s service on Sunday.

McSweeney, who attended the church service with his family members and some of the female basketball players whom he mentored over the years in his Diamond Basketball development programme, said he was grateful for the gesture.

“It was a really humbling experience for me on Sunday,” McSweeney stated. Once he accepted the honour, McSweeney said he immediately contacted some of the girls whom he’s still affiliated with to come out.

SEE PAGE 13

BASEBALL/SOFTBALL KIDS’ CLINIC A SUCCESS AT ANDRE RODGERS BASEBALL STADIUM

By TENAJH SWEETING Tribune Sports Reporter tsweeting@tribunemedia.net

NPVA VOLLEYBALL NEW Providence Volleyball Association continues its regular season this week with the following games on tap: Friday - 7:30pm - Spikers vs.

Poppers (L). 9pm - Lady Techs vs.

UB Mingoes (L).

Sunday - 3:30pm - UB Mingoes vs.

Lady Warhawks (L) 5pm - Panthers vs. Spikers (L).

A BASEBALL CHRISTMAS THE National Sports Authority is slated to host a Baseball Christmas at the Andre Rodgers Baseball Stadium from December 22-23.

The public is invited to come out and get signed autographs from the Bahamian professional baseball players, who will also complete in a series of games.

There will also be an over-40 exhibition game between some of the former players.

Tickets are priced at $5.

MACEDONIA BAPTIST CHURCH FAMILY FUN WALK THE Men’s Department of Macedonia Baptist Church is scheduled to hold a Family Fun Walk Race to kick off the new year and the beginning of its Men’s Anniversary at 6am on Saturday, January 6 with a Family Fun Walk Race.

The event will honour the late Minister Charles Albury, who passed away this year. It starts at the church on Bernard Road, Fox Hill, and heads west on Bernard Road to the Village Road round-a-bout and returns on Bernard Road to the church. Awards will be presented to the first three finishers in each category for men and women.

There will be an award for the church with the most finishers. T-shirts will be provided, as well as a bowl of souse.

The registration fee is $20 per person.

For those not participating in the walk, souse will be sold at $10. Interested persons are urged to contact Brent Stubbs at 426-7265 or stubbobs@gmail.com for further information.

THE Don’t Blink week of festivities included the successful hosting of a baseball and softball kids clinic held at the Andre Rodgers Baseball Stadium for the first time on Wednesday.

The one-day clinic saw the collaboration between Don’t Blink and the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) Players Way to bring out over 200 participants who learned the fundamentals of both sports from top baseball players.

Among the Bahamian professional players assisting with the kids’ clinic included shortstop Ryan Reckley. For Reckley, it was his second time helping with the kids and for him it was a joyous moment. “It was great seeing the excitement on

YOUNG, aspiring baseball/softball stars participate in the oneday kids’ clinic at the Andre Rodgers Baseball Stadium on Wednesday.

Photo: Dante Carrer the children’s faces. I was One of the next genjust like these kids growing eration of players in up looking up to players attendance at the camp Fox and Isaacs and saying included 16-year-old I want to play baseball Davaughn Alexis. He got growing up. Seeing guys the opportunity to engage playing professionally in some fielding, hitting gives the kids motivation. and running bases on I saw the excitement on Wednesday. the kids’ faces and it got “I had a lot of fun even bigger. The sport in today. It is great to see The Bahamas is getting bigger,” he said.

SEE PAGE 12

PAGE 12, Friday, December 8, 2023

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MLB stars come out in Futures Showcase FROM PAGE 11 that was a part of the festivities for the sixth annual Don’t Blink Home Run Derby in Paradise. The unique Don’t Blink Home Run Derby in Paradise and dubbed “the Greatest Show on Sand,” is set for Saturday at 1pm on the foreshore of Montagu Bay. It is organised by the Bahamian duo of Todd Isaacs Jr and Lucius Fox, who initiated the event in 2018 to bring more awareness to the sport in the Bahamas.

“This is year six, but I wonder what year 10 would look like,” said Fox as he glanced over the audience of “who is who” in the baseball community. “I’ve seen some great performances.

“The kids who came over from the United States put on a show for the public and our Bahamian kids are doing great as well as they put their best foot forward to show what they can do.”

Fox, the eighth Bahamian to play in Major League Baseball, said Saturday is the big show and everybody is excited to see what the players will put forth.

He’s looking forward to the Bahamian players prevailing over their visiting counterparts to keep the title here.

As for the high schoolers, which included some of the top players out of the United States and the Bahamas, they got to display their skills in hitting and fielding for the international scouts and visiting college coaches.

The night concluded with an exhibition baseball game.

As the seventh Bahamian to play in the Major League and now considered to be the face of the Miami Marlins, Chisholm Jr was delighted to embrace the opportunity to provide some motivation to the younger players on display in the showcase.

“It’s good to come back home and to be able to watch the young kids,” said Chisholm Jr, who just completed his third season with the Marlins.

“We finally get in the stadium so the kids can now really enjoy playing the game.”

Nobody seemed to enjoy playing the game more than Chisholm Jr, who was switched from the infield to the outfield after he recovered from a turf toe surgery during the season.

“I am getting ready to play baseball like I always do,” he stated. “If I don’t get hurt, you can expect an MVP season. I’m looking forward to hitting 40 home runs and stealing 40 bags. If I can stay healthy and do it, I can get the MVP.”

FROM Bahamian Major League player Jasrado ‘Jazz’ Chisholm Jr and coach Antoan Richardson to American icons Andrew Dawson, Derek Jeter and CC Sabathia, there was no shortage of stars for the local and international high school players to glean from as they got their opportunity to shine in the inaugural Don’t Blink/Minority Baseball Prospects Futures Showcase yesterday at the Andre Rodgers Baseball Stadium.

Photo: Moise Amisial In the meantime, While he’s looking for- it. For those who remem“It’s a fun experience big league, they too feel like Chisholm Jr said he’s look- ward to the growth of the bered, he also did it, playing and a great atmosphere they can accomplish their ing forward to watching the event next year, Richardson with Richardson when they to do it,” Jeter stated. dreams.

Home Run Derby, which said he’s thrilled to watch were both members of the “There are so much more Grandison is even more takes on a new format this the Home Run Derby to New York Yankees. baseball players like Jazz eager about watching the year with the Bahamian where it has ascended in On September 25, 2014, Chisholm who is coming Home Run Derby on Saturplayers being matched just six years of existence.

Richardson came in to from the Bahamas and guys day. “The water is a sight to against the World.

Having visited the Baha- pinch-run for Jose Pirela like Todd and Lucius are see,” he said. “If those who “We have some big mas more times than he in the bottom of the ninth exposing so much more by haven’t seen it and they bats out there, so you can could count, Sabathia said inning against the Balti- putting on this great event. love home runs, I encourexpect to see some bombs,” he’s thrilled to return to more Orioles. He scored I love it.” age them to come to the Chisholm Jr stated. see the progress Isaacs Jr the winning run on a walkCurtis Grandison, who Bahamas for a great event.

Richardson, the sixth and Fox are making with off single by Jeter in the played the outfield for 16 You get a chance to hit Bahamian to play in the the Home Run Derby and final Yankee Stadium at bat seasons with seven different home runs in the ocean.”

Majors before he retired watching Chisholm Jr as of Jeter’s career teams in Major League, is Amari Burrows, who is and took up the first base he interacts with the BahaNow nine years later, the current president of the now in his first year at Bruce coaching job with the San mian people has made this the two retired players are Board of the Players Alli- Academy in Palm Dale, Francisco Giants, said he trip extra special or him. here on the sidelines watch- ance. After joining forces Florida, is a 15-year-old too loves being home and “To come down here for a ing the next generation of with Isaacs Jr and Fox last former student of Queen’s to see the magnitude of the baseball event and to watch players. year, Grandison said they College. He came home to game being played here. these kids is just amaz“We are all blessed with decided to make it a perma- make an impression on the “I am excited to see ing,” said Sabathia, whose having a platform, but nent relationship. scouts and coaches in the our pro players like Jazz tall figure could not be we’re also thankful that “We came down here showcase on Thursday.

Chisholm, all of the coaches denied wearing a Chisholm the Players Alliance has last year and provided a “This is a great opportuwho worked with these Jr jersey. “To have all this afforded us this opportu- lot of equipment for these nity for me to step out there players in Freedom Farm talent down here and this nity to engage in this event young players to continue and put on a show,” he and JBLN as well as the caliber of talent is just as well,” he pointed out. to improve their skills and stated. “The US guys have academies,” said Rich- amazing. “It’s just a great “We are thankful that as so we’re happy to be able that platform where the ardson, who cracked the collection of talent here and current and former players, to come back and continue scouts are coming behind Majors in 2011 with the I’m just happy to be a part we can help to motivate and to make our contribution them. So it’s good for us to Atlanta Braves on Septem- of it.” encourage the future gen- to the growth of the sport have them come here to ber 4, 2011.

The left-handed pitcher eration of players.” here,” he pointed out. watch us perform.”

“It’s must exciting to see who won a World Series Jeter, inducted into the Looking at what he’s seen One of the visiting playthe growth of baseball in with the New York Yankees Hall of Fame after playing here, Grandison said there ers from the United States the Bahamas. noted that he’s just thrilled in the Majors from 1995 must be “something in the Braylon Nelson, who hails “I have to shout out to to watch the Home Run to 2014, said the game has rice and the peas and conch out of Pensacola, Florida, is Todd Isaacs and Lucius Derby as the players hit certainly changed since he because seeing these kids a towering 6-foot, five-inch Fox for being the type of the ball in the water as he is was growing up because who are 15-16 years old and 16-year-old player in the ambassadors they are for going to Baha Mar’s Royal the players now have the they are taller than me and 11th grade. our country in bringing Blue Golf Club for a round exposure that he wasn’t 30 more pounds than me.

“It’s amazing. I’m really this level of baseball to our of golf. afforded.

“So whatever you pleased to be able to see country. It’s growing and it’s Jeter, another frequent He said it’s even more are doing, keep doing it some of the players I looked going to continue to grow visitor to the Bahamas, said unique that the players because I see the athletic up to,” pointed out Nelson, with people like Todd and anytime he can make an will showcase their skills in development and they love who is making his first trip Lucius involved. They bring impact on the future players a home run derby on the the game and with players to the Bahamas. “It’s really so much to the sport.” in the sport, he’s eager to do waterfront. like Jazz making it to the a blessing.”

BASEBALL/SOFTBALL KIDS’ CLINIC A SUCCESS FROM PAGE 11 Bahamians coming back and doing the camp. The sport is not that famous right now so to have these guys here is awesome,” Alexis said.

In his fifth appearance at the camp, Will Benson, outfielder for the Cincinnati Reds, was impressed with not only the skill level of participants but the progression of the event over the years.

“It is cool to see how much it has grown from when I first started to do the event. It has gotten better and the skill level of the children has gotten better which was cool to see,” Benson said.

As for the Don’t Blink Home Run Derby event on Saturday, Team Bahamas is ready to take on Team World at Fort Montagu Beach for the sixth hosting of the baseball showdown.

In previous years, team competition was between Team Isaacs and Team Fox, who are tied 2-2 in the event.

With a potential home turf advantage, Bahamian shortstop and co-founder of the event Lucius Fox said the home team is ready for Saturday’s face off.

“We have a strong and young team full of talent that are excited to take on

YOUNG, aspiring baseball/softball stars participate in the one-day kids’ clinic at the Andre Rodgers Baseball Stadium Wednesday.

Photos: Dante Carrer the challenge. I have seen these guys workout. Yesterday, I came to the stadium and they were putting in the work. I have seen over social media that they are hitting the gym hard, hitting the cage and going to the field.

“I am just waiting to see that show up on Saturday.

I know that they are super excited and will keep the crown here in The Bahamas,” Fox said.

Team Bahamas includes Cherif Neymour (Miami Marlins), defending champion BJ Murray (Chicago Cubs), Sebas Walcott (Texas Rangers), D’Shawn Knowles (Los Angeles Angels), Paris Johnson (Los Angeles Dodgers), Toby Simmons (Miami Marlins), Adari Grant

(St Louis Cardinals) and Chavez Young (Pittsburgh Pirates).

Benson said Team World will be in top form on Saturday.

“I am expecting a lot of home runs, that is for sure.

I do not know how the draft process went but looking at that lineup I am expecting for us to win,” he said.

Team World will feature Benson, James Wood (Washington Nationals), Josh Palacios (Pittsburgh Pirates), Richie Palacios (St Louis Cardinals), Akil Badoo (Detroit Tigers), Lawrence Butler (Oakland Athletics), Nick Gordon (Minnesota Twins), Lewis Brinson (Yomiuri Giants), Brennen Davis (Chicago Cubs), and Termarr Johnson (Pittsburgh Pirates).

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Friday, December 8, 2023, PAGE 13

‘BUDDY’ AND PACERS TOP BUCKS, ADVANCE TO THE NBA IN-SEASON TOURNAMENT FINAL FROM PAGE 11 rebounds, two assists, two steals and a block.

Obi Toppin had 14 on 6-of-8 shooting, Isaiah Jackson chipped in 11 and Bruce Brown had 10.

Giannis Antetokounmpo had 37 points and 10 rebounds for Milwaukee.

Damian Lillard added 24 points, Khris Middleton had 20 and Brook Lopez 18.

Down three after three quarters, the Pacers opened the fourth with a 14-8 run to take a 105-102 lead.

Turner, Brown and Haliburton accounted for 17 points during a game-ending 21-13 run.

After scoring a seasonhigh 146 points and making 23 of 38 3-pointers in a quarterfinal victory over New York, the Bucks were 12 of 33 on 3s and 43 of 96 overall from the field.

UP NEXT Pacers: Tournament title game Saturday night in Las Vegas against Lakers or Pelicans.

Bucks: Host Chicago on Monday night.

MILWAUKEE Bucks centre Brook Lopez shoots the ball over Indiana Pacers guard Chavano “Buddy” Hield (7) and centre Myles Turner during a semifinal game in the NBA basketball In-Season Tournament yesterday in Las Vegas.

(Kyle Terada/Pool Photo via AP)

SHOCKERS DOWN GIANTS TO WIN TITLE FROM PAGE 11 talked about how it felt to double up the title wins in his first season as the coach.

“It feels really good again like the first time, today the girls really put their foot down. The first three quarters we dominated but in the last quarter one of our better players fouled out and then we had to regroup which put us in a slump for about three minutes of running time. They were then able to come back and almost tied the game.”

The Shockers girls’ team were reeling following their first loss of the basketball

season at the hands of the Giants on Wednesday.

Despite the gut-wrenching loss, the team used the defeat to fuel their fire in game three yesterday.

The newest champions were the first to jump ahead on the scoreboard to lead 6-3 at the 2:36 mark in the second period. They advanced by another two points and closed out the halftime break 8-3.

The victors ran out by as much as nine points but the Giants maintained a “never say die” mentality and mounted a major comeback in the fourth quarter. With the scoreboard at 13-4, the RUNNERS UP: The Xavier’s Lower School Giants girls team finish the 2023 Catholic Board of Education Primary Schools Championships as the runners-up.

Photos: Tenajh Sweeting/Tribune Staff

MOST VALUABLE PLAYERS: Grace Smith and Emery Sturrup take home the league and championship MVP honours for the St Francis & Joseph Shockers.

Giants poured in two consecutives baskets to draw within five (13-8).

The team continued to chip away at the lead and got a final chance to tie the score at 13 to force an overtime period.

However, a last-minute heave from behind the arc by the Giants rimmed out and the Shockers flooded the court to revel in championship glory.

“Wednesday night was a real reality check for them

because they did not lose any games yet and they felt that sting.

“Today in school they practiced by themselves during lunch time to get ready for the game,” the head coach said.

Grace Smith was one of the players who took the loss to heart on Wednesday night.

However, in the win-orgo-home contest, Smith powered her way to a game-high eight points

which translated to not only championship Most Valuable Player (MVP) honours but also the league’s MVP award.

“It feels great. I had to work for this. I was not this good when I was on the team last year in grade four but I trained all through the summer and now I am here.

“It feels amazing to have three trophies and to celebrate with some of the most important people to me,” the MVP said.

Among the other trophy earners was Giants head coach Raygail Smith, who claimed the coach’s award.

Despite coming up short in the final game, her Giants team fought tooth and nail until the final buzzer sounded at the Loyola Hall.

The 2023 Catholic Board of Education Primary Schools Championships wrapped up with the Shockers hoisting both trophies to conclude a successful basketball season.

Terrence ‘Red Eye’ McSweeney honoured FROM PAGE 11 He said he was just as thrilled with their support as he was receiving the plaque, which read: The Hope Center honours Terrence ‘Red Eye’ McSweeney for relentless quest in mentoring our youth, Sunday, December 3rd, 2023.

“I had some surprises from people who came in, especially from Jordan Prince Williams, whom I worked with to win the BAISS senior girls’ title in 2016/2017, the first ever in the history of the school for senior girls,” McSweeney said.

“That same team in that same year went to Grand Bahama and we won the third annual National High School tournament. So I had girls who came in, not only from the Falcons, but also from St John’s and Queen’s College and Temple Christian.”

Apostle Dr Carlos Ried, the senior pastor of the Hope, said McSweeney was honoured for his longevity in coaching women’s basketball and for the lives he’s helped to transform.

“The Hope Center thought it fit to honour him and give him his flowers while he’s still living and for the impact that he has made to the development of the nation’s youth,” Dr Reid stated.

The recognition is a continued commitment by The Hope Center to honour some of the trailblazers who have worked among

TERRENCE ‘Red Eye’ McSweeney is flanked by his family members. the young people in the country.

McSweeney, a long-time coach, started the Diamond Basketball development programme in 1995. It’s named after his daughter, Tamara McSweeney, nicknamed ‘Diamond.’

While his daughter alluded to the fact that her father got started coaching when she was in primary school at Temple Christian Academy, McSweeney admitted that ever since, he developed a passion for the sport and has helped countless young women throughout the years.

Both Tamara McSweeney and Charisma Lightbourne, who were among the first

set of girls that McSweeney coached, spoke highly about his commitment and dedication to their development.

While the programme is currently on a break, McSweeney noted that he intends to resume the practice sessions in January at The Hope Center, thanks to the tremendous support he’s received from Dr Reid.

Through the programme, McSweeney said he’s proud to note that at least three Bahamian female players are now playing division one collegiate basketball in Rhema Collins at Ole Miss, Tanika Lightbourne at Dayton University in Ohio and Vernique Charlton at

the University of Alabama.

“There are a lot others, but I mentioned these because they are in their freshman year and are starting for their respective universities, except for Rhema, who is currently being red-shirted because of an injury,” McSweeney said.

“So when you look at what happened on Saturday and Sunday with the programme, we give God all the honour and praise,” McSweeney stated.

“In receiving the award from Dr Reid, I continue to serve my strength and method from God, who is the head of my life.”

McSweeney acknowledged that while he’s not

a member of The Hope Center, he has assisted the church through his involvement with his programme on the basketball court.

“He knows that I was able to continue to mentor and develop the girls and to encourage, challenge, influence and inspire them, not only for basketball in the future, but first and foremost, to be the best in the classroom.

“I always preach the sermon that once you have knowledge, nobody can take knowledge away from you. As an athlete, you can easily shorten your career or the changes of going forward if you get an injury. But education is a

continuous process as long as you live.”

The Diamond Basketball programme, McSweeney summed up, is geared to ensuring that the girls continue to excel on the court and in the classroom so that they can become better citizens of the Bahamas.

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PAGE 14, Friday, December 8, 2023

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OLD BAHAMA BAY WAHOO CHARITY CUP AWARDS PRESENTATION

THE BIGGEST wahoo Angler Michell Lopez is awarded during the Old Bahama Bay Wahoo Charity Cup awards presentation.

Winners soak up spotlight at Old Bahama Bay

BRIDGETT BULLARD, far right, receives a cheque on behalf of West End All Age School from Andy Flack and Mary Flack.

OLD Bahama Bay Wahoo Charity Cup third place winner Peg Leg.

DANNY RIGBY TENNIS TOURNAMENT WAS A BLAST IN FREEPORT THE Danny Rigby tennis tournament was held on the weekend in Freeport, Grand Bahama.

According to a press release, the Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association congratulates the winners and the runners-up.

“Coach Danny has consistently poured into the young generation of junior tennis athletes over the past decades and the success of this tournament is a testament to his commitment to the sport and to nation-building.

“We encourage all coaches to foster competition and to organise similar events that will add to the tennis résumé of the players,” said the release.

UÊ/ iÊÜ iÀÃÊ ÊÌ iÊÛ>À ÕÃÊ age groups are: Group A Winner Dylan Sykes Runner-up Alessio Battello Group B Winner Rowan Russell Runner-up Alban Pageron Group C Winner Amba Miller Runner-up Meredith Deveaux Group D Winner David Francis Runner-up Gracie Wilson Group E Winner Isabella Gibby Runner-up Victor Rowland

ALL SMILES: Proud participants with their trophies at the Danny Rigby tennis tournament over the weekend in Freeport, Grand Bahama.

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, December 8, 2023, PAGE 15

The challenge of navigating weight loss at Christmas M

ost of us just give up on nutrition during this season but as we approach every Bahamian’s favourite time of year, let’s circle back to our discussions on nutrition and, specifically, why your favourite New Year’s resolution was unsuccessful this year...again.

Embarking on the journey to shed those stubborn pounds can sometimes feel like navigating a complex maze.

However fear ye not, for behold I bring you tidings of great nutrition as we unveil the science behind the most common stumbling blocks on the road to weight loss.

So before we eat that Johnny cake (and guava duff and potato bread and coconut Jimmy), let’s explore these weighty matters and offer guidance to help you triumph over the scale this season.

Snacking on Sneaky Calories: The Munching Minefield Snacking can be a dieter’s labyrinth, filled with hidden calories. Scientific studies, such as those in the Journal of Nutrition, reveal the tendency to underestimate the caloric content of snacks.

Those innocent nibbles throughout the day might be adding up more than you think. Our recommendation? Snack smart by opting for nutrient-dense options like fruits and veggies, and keep a watchful eye on portion sizes.

The Sedentary Saga: Breaking Up with the Couch Your couch might be a cozy companion, but it can also be a silent saboteur of weight loss. Research, including studies in the

“Stress might have you reaching for that bag of chips, but science suggests there’s a weighty consequence. Research in the International Journal of Obesity reveals the link between stress and overeating. Our solution? Find stress-busting activities that don’t involve food. Whether it’s a mindfulness session, a creative outlet, or a brisk walk, discover your non-edible stress allies.”

— Dr Kent Bazard

DR KENT BAZARD American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, underscores the impact of sedentary behaviour on weight gain.

Our advice? Break up with your couch at regular intervals. Sneak in a dance party, take a stroll during conference calls, or simply engage in spontaneous bursts of activity. At least stand during commercials. Your metabolism will thank you.

Liquid Calories: The Sip-and-See Culprit Those seemingly innocent and not so innocent beverages might be masking a sugary secret.

Scientific literature, including findings in the British Medical Journal, exposes the impact of liquid calories on weight gain. From sodas to egg nogg and specialty coffees, these sippable calories can add up swiftly.

Our suggestion? Drink wisely by opting for water, herbal teas, or black coffee.

Save the sugary sips for special occasions like family dinners and your office

Christmas party (just your office party now, not every party you crash this season, ok?).

Sleep Struggles: The Nighttime Weighty Woes Lack of sleep isn’t just a challenge for your energy levels; it’s also a foe to weight loss. Studies in the Annals of Internal Medicine highlight the correlation between insufficient sleep and weight gain.

Our light-hearted advice?

Make your bed a weightloss haven. Prioritise quality sleep by creating a relaxing bedtime routine and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. Junkanoo will be a challenge of course.

Get enough rest in the days leading up to the parade, especially if you are participating. Getting sleep afterwards isn’t usually a problem but if it is, be sure to plan your schedule ahead of time.

Stressful Snacking: The Emotional Eating Rollercoaster Stress might have you reaching for that bag of chips, but science suggests there’s a weighty consequence.

Research in the International Journal of Obesity reveals the link between stress and overeating. Our solution? Find stress-busting activities that don’t involve food. Whether it’s a mindfulness session, a

creative outlet, or a brisk walk, discover your nonedible stress allies.

Conclusion: Navigating Weight Loss This Christmas Embarking on the weight loss journey doesn’t have to be a solemn affair. By

facing our struggles and understanding the scientific nuances behind them, we can navigate this path with a smile.

So, embrace the season, heed the science, and let’s turn these common weight loss challenges into mere

stepping stones on your journey to a healthier you next year.

UÊ ÀÊ i ÌÊ >â>À`Ê ÃÊ >Ê Bahamian sports medicine physician, sports performance coach, sports nutrition specialist and founder of Empire Sports Medicine. Our mission is to empower athletes to reach new heights while safeguarding their health and well-being. We understand the unique demands of sports activities, and we are dedicated to helping athletes prevent injuries, overcome challenges, optimise nutrition and performance.

PATRIOTS DAMAGE STEELERS’ PLAYOFF HOPES WITH 21-18 WIN

By WILL GRAVES AP Sports Writer PITTSBURGH (AP) — Bailey Zappe threw three first-half touchdown passes, and the New England Patriots snapped a five-game skid while damaging the playoff hopes of the Pittsburgh Steelers with a 21-18 victory last night.

Zappe passed for 240 yards in his second start for the Patriots (3-10), who became the second two-win team in five days to hand the Steelers (7-6) a potentially season-altering loss at home.

Hunter Henry had two touchdown catches for New England. Ezekiel Elliott had 140 yards from scrimmage — 72 receiving, 68 rushing — and caught a TD for the NFL’s lowestscoring offence, which

reached the end zone three times for the first time since October. JuJu Smith-Schuster added 90 yards receiving against the team he starred for earlier in his career.

Mitch Trubisky completed 22 of 35 for 190 yards, passing for a touchdown and running for another while filling in for injured Steelers starter i ÞÊ * V iÌÌ°Ê /ÀÕL Ã ÞÊ also threw an ill-advised pass in the first half that was picked off to set up the first of Henry’s two scores, and he inexplicably threw deep to a well-covered Diontae Johnson on fourth-and-2 at midfield with just under two minutes left.

Pittsburgh got the ball back with 15 seconds remaining but had no realistic chance to score.

The Steelers managed 264

yards of offence, another step back for a group that briefly seemed on the verge of getting it together after offensive coordinator Matt Canada’s firing before Thanksgiving.

Pittsburgh piled up 421 yards the following week at Cincinnati, but the offence regressed in Sunday’s loss to Arizona.

The Patriots, five days removed from a shutout loss to the Chargers in which they failed to reach the red zone, let alone the end zone, looked far sharper against a team that stressed it wouldn’t overlook another also-ran.

It happened again anyway. Zappe guided the Patriots to their first opening-drive touchdown of the season when he hit Elliot in the flat and the running back raced in from 11 yards out.

PAGE 16, Friday, December 8, 2023

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