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Volume: 121 No.17, December 13, 2023

THE PEOPLE’S PAPER: PRICE–$1

MAN BEGS ‘LET ME BACK INTO PRISON’ Commissioner praise for suspect who asked to cancel bail after shooting

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Staff Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net POLICE Commissioner Clayton Fernander wants more people accused of serious crimes to follow the example of Anthon Munroe, a murder suspect who asked a judge last week to cancel his bail because he felt unsafe.

Munroe had been on bail

for over a year, awaiting trial for the September 15, 2020, killing of Shermalle Ferguson, Jr, on First Street in Coconut Grove.

Munroe reportedly told Supreme Justice Renae Mckay last week that someone shot at him outside his house days earlier, and he was afraid for his safety.

He made an emergency

Rained off?

Burna Boy postponed

‘Munroe’s un response ridiculous’, says Wallace

By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net HUMAN rights advocate Alicia Wallace ripped National Security Minister Wayne Munroe’s response to the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention’s (WGAD) report about this country’s detention systems, calling it “ridiculous” in its “unnecessary and inappropriate defensiveness”.

She argued the issues highlighted in the

SEE PAGE FIVE

pM: pledge on cliMate fight by Wealthy countries not enough

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said the wealthiest countries in the world, including the United States of America and China, did not pledge enough to the loss and damage fund COP28 delegates agreed to establish during a recent meeting of

SEE PAGE FIVE

the major climate conference in Dubai.

His comments came while delivering a lecture on the urgency of climate action at St John’s University in Minnesota on Monday as part of the 17th annual CSB/SJU Eugene J McCarthy Lecture Series.

The loss and damage fund would help small

straW Vendors struggling despite record tourisM rise

SEE PAGE THREE

By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunmedia.net

BURNA Boy performing in a thunderstorm in Tobago in October 2022.

By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net PROMOTERS of a concert starring Burna Boy announced the event’s postponement yesterday, citing inclement weather.

Some concert hopefuls

told The Tribune they want their money back, but it was unclear they would get it.

A new date for the event was not disclosed, although officials suggested it would be in the first quarter of 2024.

The terms and conditions section of the promoter’s

Photo: BurnaBoyGram

website described the concert as a “rain or shine event”, and Burna Boy has performed in inclement weather before. An orange alert from Trinidad and Tobago’s Met Office describing hazardous

Nassau & Bahama Islands’ Leading Newspaper

SEE PAGE FOUR

ALTHOUGH the country is hitting tourism records, some straw vendors say they are struggling.

Rebecca Small, president of the Straw Business Persons Society, told The Tribune yesterday that sales this Christmas season have been better than last year, but there are days when some vendors barely make any money.

She said yesterday several vendors worked all day and didn’t make $100. She SEE PAGE THREE

PAGE 2, Wednesday, December 13, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

Genesis Academy donates to local charities

By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunemedia.net GENESIS Academy wished Merry Christmas to four local charities yesterday by giving them donations.

The hall of Genesis Academy was turned into a winter wonderland with mountains of toys, children’s clothing wrapped in Christmas packages, and over 500 pounds of food in boxes.

Dr Lyrica Knowles, director of academic affairs, said three student clubs helped raise charity donations.

The Elizabeth Estates Children’s Home was given clothes, shoes, and toys from the younger students.

Dr Knowles said the students held a clothing drive, which resulted in them receiving many items for the children’s home.

The Children’s Emergency Hostel received a donation of $400 from the high school students who held several fundraising events.

The Hands for Hunger feeding organisation was also given several boxes of food items. Dr Knowles noted the school’s Hands for Hunger Club held a food and can drive in the

last few months.

She added that every year, the schools ask students to give gifts to boys and girls who might not have any presents on Christmas.

The Great Commission Ministries was the recipient of the school’s annual gifts drive this year.

“We chose the Great Commission’s Ministries to present our gift offerings for children to just have some light and love and something to open on this Christmas day. And for them to know that somebody was thinking about them because that’s really important for us at Genesis that we teach our children to give back,” she said.

JJ Turnquest, communications media and events manager for Hands for Hunger, thanked Gensis for its gracious donation.

She said the donation from the students was extra special because Hands of Hunger was started by a group of students in 2008.

The food donated by the students will help to feed many families.

Ms Turnquest encouraged people with excess prepared food from their Christmas dinners and parties to donate to Hands for Hunger.

“We’ll come and

CHARITY representatives, school faculty and students pose for a group photo during the Genesis Academy’s annual charity gift presentation yesterday. Student organisations made donations to Great Commissions Ministry, Hands for Hunger, The Elizabeth Estates Children Home and The Children’s Emergency Hostel.

Photo: Dante Carrer collect,” she said. “Listen, we always say there’s no

amount too small. And that is the truth. We’ll come

and collect a pot of rice because you can imagine

how many people can eat out of a pot of rice.”

PM: Pledge on climate fight by wealthy countries not enough THE TRIBUNE

Wednesday, December 13, 2023, PAGE 3

from page one island developing states (SIDS) like The Bahamas.

Mr Davis said the pledge to introduce the fund is a step in the right direction, but questioned when money will be pumped into the account.

“Together, the nations of the world pledged $700m to the fund –– a great first step –– but just a first step,” he said.

“As I said, a single storm can cause billions in damage.”

“The amount pledged covers approximately 0.2 per cent of the damage developing nations are facing each year.

And just in case you wanted to know what the breakdown of the pledged amounts look like: The host country, the United Arab Emirates, pledged $100 million, which was matched by Germany and surpassed by both Italy and France. The world’s third-largest economy, Japan, pledged $10 million.”

“And what about the two largest economies in the world? The US pledged $17.5m, while China has yet to make a commitment.

“Of course, every step in the right direction is appreciated. But as the world gets closer to the tipping point from which there will be no return, we have to move past taking baby steps in the right direction and begin sprinting to our destination. Surely, we can all do more. And is it too much to expect that the wealthiest among us do a lot more?”

Hurricane Dorian caused The Bahamas $3.4bn in loss and damages.

Mr Davis noted that countries like The Bahamas, which contribute the least to climate change, often bear the worst consequences.

“Some,” he said, “may wonder why it is the responsibility of wealthier nations, who have worked hard to achieve their success, to provide help to developing nations?”

“Well, first and foremost, it is now a settled principle that, it is fair and just that ‘the polluter pays’. Our strong view is that, in this regard, we must all embrace this principle.”

PRIME Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis delivers a lecture on the urgency of climate action at St John’s University in Minnesota on Monday as part of the 17th annual CSB/SJU Eugene J McCarthy Lecture Series.

Photo: OPM

Pinder says industrialised countries are ‘obligated to vulnerable, non-emitting countries’ over climate crisis

ATTORNEY GENERAL RYAN PINDER

ATTORNEY General Ryan Pinder said industrialised countries are obligated to vulnerable, non-emitting countries for their contribution to the climate crisis.

His comment came during a United Nations Human Rights Office of the High Commissioner Human Rights 75 High-Level Climate and Environment Roundtable in Switzerland.

Representatives discussed justice and accountability for environmental harm.

“The Bahamas supports the United Nations (UN) Resolution requesting an advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on the obligations of states in respect of climate change,” he said. “We view the resolution as a significant milestone in our decadeslong struggle for climate

justice.

The Bahamas will be submitting a written statement in support of the advisory opinion calling for differentiated responsibilities based on proportional contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions.”

The Bahamas is taking a proactive approach.

The effects of the climate crisis have created a need for catastrophic property insurance to either be unavailable or beyond the reach of many in The Bahamas. The Bahamas has, therefore, committed to develop an insurance product that will be funded from the aforementioned liabilities of private industry and industrialised states. We are, therefore, not only fighting to achieve climate justice, but also working to ensure that its reparations accrue to the benefit of the most vulnerable.”

Straw vendors struggling despite record tourism rise from page one said tourists aren’t spending much money at the downtown Straw Market.

“One vendor told me she made $15 one day. The next day she came out, she made $25,” Ms Small said.

“You could go on the other side of the market, you’ll find people who said they did well.”

She said people wrongly believe the large number of cruise ship arrivals means big increases in sales.

Mal Smith, a straw vendor of over a decade, said the number of cruise ships in town do not reflect the amount of money going into vendors’ pockets.

“I’ve been out here from after 9am and I have yet to make $60,” she said yesterday afternoon. “So we have the people, but for me personally, I don’t have the money.”

Ms Smith said she’s

worried about making ends meet this Christmas season.

“I am really stressed out because I have four kids in school that got to go back to school and everything,” she said. “And you know people come in and you want to give them a gift, you want to make them happy. But it’s not there.

It’s rough.”

Earlier this month, the Deputy Prime Minister said officials estimate that direct visitor spending in the Bahamian economy amid record tourist arrivals will “far exceed $6bn” this year, exceeding previous records.

Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis later said in a statement that the country’s record-breaking eight million visitors this year is boosting national income, creating extensive employment, and stimulating various sectors of the economy.

DOWNTOWN NASSAU STRAW MARKET

PAGE 4, Wednesday, December 13, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

Rained off? Burna Boy concert postponed

AN INSTAGRAM post shared in October 2022 shows Burna Boy performing during a downpour in Tobago.

Photo: BurnaBoyGram

from page one conditions that could threaten lives, livelihoods and property and cause serious injuries or casualties did not stop his show during the Tobago Music and Cultural (TOMAC) festival on October 27, 2022, according to international reports.

However, Michael Cartwright, a local organiser, said yesterday workers could not safely set up the venue, which he said was 50 per cent complete.

“We want to make sure that the concertgoers are safe as well as the production teams that are putting the venue together for us,”

he said during a press conference. “So that’s a very critical part as to why that decision was made. There is no way between now and Saturday to have the venue fully ready given the winds that we are having.”

Foreign Currency, the event management company organising the event, planned to run the event from 4pm to 4am.

The terms and conditions section on the company’s website said it reserves the right to modify or alter any aspect of the event without prior notice to concertgoers.

“If the event is cancelled in whole or in part due to a force majeure

event (as defined below), you will not be entitled to a refund,” the section says.

“Notwithstanding the foregoing, the company may issue, at the company’s sole and absolute discretion, a partial or full refund of your ticket, by accounting for, among other considerations, the extent and nature of the cancellation.”

“A ‘force majeure event’ shall mean an act of God, the act of terrorism, earthquake, wildfire, flood, tsunami, strike or other labour condition or dispute, an order or injunction of any court or administrative body or any other act of public authority, severe

weather threatening the safety of event attendees or similar contingency or unexpected event, and any such occurrence beyond the reasonable control of the company.”

According to the terms, if cancellation occurs, concertgoers may receive the face value of their ticket.

Gregory Thompson, a forecaster at the Department of Meteorology, confirmed that bad weather, including heavy wind and thunderstorms, is expected in the coming days.

He noted the department’s special weather statement concerning the weather event.

“We are expecting near gale to gale force winds across the entire northwest Bahamas for the remainder of the week into the weekend,” he said.

“That starts really tomorrow, late tonight and into tomorrow.”

Foreign Currency officials declined to disclose the number of tickets sold for the event amid speculation that high prices muted the public’s reception of the festival.

They said people who bought tickets were contacted via email, but at least two people told this newspaper they received no correspondence.

“I mean they can’t

do anything about the weather, I just want my money back,” said one person.

Event promoters are optimistic that people will support the event’s new date.

“Everyone should have an understanding that it’s beyond our control,” said Fernerin Hanna. “Burna Boy is set. There are a lot of rumours. He is set to go. We have a legitimate contract, and we are on his official list.”

In addition to Burna Boy, the event was expected to feature Bahamian artists like Natural Empress, Rika C, Mighty Pencil, and Judah Tha Lion.

BAHAMIAN LAW ENFORCEMENT WORKING WITH Bahamas Hot Mix donates $15,000 to US AUTHORITIES TO CURB HUMAN SMUGGLING Platinum Knights Junkanoo group

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Staff Reporter dmaycock@ tribunemedia.net COMMISSIONER of Police Clayton Fernander said human smuggling is big business, but Bahamian law enforcement is working closely with US counterparts to curb the practice.

A recent attempted smuggling incident resulted in the discovery of some 15 immigrants who left from Grand Bahama by boat, heading for Florida.

The vessels were intercepted in waters off Florida by US Coast Guard officials, who detained a Bahamian and an Italian national in connection with the incident. The immigrants were returned to Grand Bahama, where they were charged for breaching the Immigrant Act. Mr Fernander noted that human smuggling is a huge global issue that has ties to the drug trade. He said it is big business, and Bahamians are involved in the

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“You find that individuals who are involved in the drugs trade and trafficking of firearms are the same players that are involved now in human smuggling,” he said.

The commissioner said the country’s borders are wide open.

“There is so much entry in and out, and some of our main players are Bahamians who are assisting these smugglers, and it is big business, more than the drug trade right now. That is something we continue to pay attention to and we are working closely with our US counterparts to try to curb human smuggling,” he said.

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BAHAMAS Hot Mix (BHM) presents Platinum Knights Junkanoo Group with a $15K donation toward 2024 New Years Day Parade. Pictured left to right; Harmsworth Joseph, plant operator BHM; Eric Nabb, construction engineer BHM; Robyn Knowles, plant manager BHM; Ebbe Saidi, managing director BHM; Thomas Curry Jr leader Platinum Knights, Debra Lane, CFO BHM; Joe Clarke Platinum Knights; Kathleen Tucker Platinum Knights; Cravaughan McKay. BAHAMAS Hot Mix presented $15,000 to the Platinum Knights Junkanoo group as it prepares for the

upcoming New Year’s Day Junkanoo Parade.

Managing director Ebbe Saidi said they are pleased to be able to support the group and hopes it will be the beginning of a great partnership.

Thomas Curry, Jr, leader of the Platinum Knights, said the sponsorship by Bahamas Hot Mix has come right on time as the cost of preparing for the parade has increased.

Although the group is currently supported by other companies and individuals, he said their expenses exceed the contributions received so far.

“Every dollar helps to get us out on the streets looking, sounding and being Platinum. So, we are grateful to Bahamas Hot Mix (BHM) Group for this new

partnership,” Mr Curry said.

Bahamas Hot Mix is no stranger to Grand Bahama as the company had initially started operations at the Freeport Container Port, in 2004.

In 2016, the company moved its operation outside the Queen’s Cove area, near the Grand Bahama International Airport, with an asphalt plant, mobile offices and a fleet of heavy equipment.

The operation was destroyed by Hurricane Dorian in 2019, resulting in more than $1m in damage.

Bahamas Hot Mix has invested $3m in a new facility. It consists of two concrete ready mix plants and an asphalt operation that employs some 60 Bahamians.

Man begs ‘let me back into prison’ THE TRIBUNE

Wednesday, December 13, 2023, PAGE 5

from page one application for the court to revoke his $30,000 bail and remand him into custody, believing this would be safer for him and his family.

Many people get bail because a significant backlog of cases leads to delays in the start and completion of their trial.

People on bail for serious crimes comprise a significant number of people killed in The Bahamas.

Human rights advocates say keeping them in custody indefinitely is not a suitable solution to the problem, especially given the poor conditions of the prison.

The United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, after a recent visit to the country, highlighted the number of people killed on bail and called on the government to improve its technical capacity to keep them safe.

Highlighting Munroe’s case, Commissioner Fernander told reporters in Grand Bahama yesterday: “He is now afraid and went back to the court and said, judge, please remand me, I don’t want my bail, cancel my bail, and other individuals should do just that. Say, I don’t want no bail.

I want to live a little longer. Revoke my bail and put me back behind bars. And he did the right thing, and we want to encourage others to do just that because we see the trend, and we have to fix it.”

Commissioner Fernander also said he is concerned about people on bail for murder travelling to Family Islands and committing crimes while wearing ankle monitoring devices.

On Monday, four New Providence men were charged in Freeport with several shop-breaking and stealing incidents. The men are on bail for murder and were all being monitored at the time. One of the men pleaded guilty and was sentenced to prison.

Commissioner Fernander said the incident is “a big problem”.

“Yes, we have seen a trend with respect to that on the various Family Islands, individuals that are moving from the big city into the Family Islands and committing crime,” he said.

“You can’t leave the jurisdiction and how they end up all the way here in Grand Bahama?”

The commissioner noted recent media reports highlighting disagreements about the quality of work of Metro Security Solution, the company providing ankle monitoring services.

Carlos Reid, a Ministry of National Security consultant, told The Tribune the company is not doing an effective job.

Orion Bethell, the company’s president, countered that police don’t always respond to notifications about people breaking bail conditions.

Commissioner Fernander acknowledged the discourse and said yesterday that the monitoring company should pick up on people who leave where they are mandated to stay and notify police.

“That is something that should have been picked up if they are leaving the jurisdiction and the police notified so that we could move in and put them back before the court,” he said.

“But that is something we are addressing. It is a big problem with individuals who continue to commit crime who are out there being monitored. They let their battery go dead and commit crime and then come back on the grid.”

COMMISSIONER OF POLICE CLAYTON FERNANDER

‘Munroe’s UN response ridiculous’, says human rights advocate

ALICIA WALLACE from page one preliminary findings are well known.

Mr Munroe said some of the report’s findings were inaccurate.

“One thing I would advise the public against, If you have to choose who you believe, you do yourself a disservice if you choose to believe an adverse report against the very persons who you will call when somebody is at your door, who you will call when you hear gunshots in the night, who you will call when you feel threatened,” he said.

Ms Wallace said in response: “It is not the job of the Working Group to protect the reputation of the government or find excuses for its failures. Its

role is to conduct an assessment in order to make a clear report on the situation in The Bahamas, which it did. Police brutality, forced confessions, and unlawful detainment are known issues.”

“The suggestion that we are to believe law enforcement because we depend on them is dangerous and, as a matter of fact, threatening. Is our outrage at the unlawful behaviour and abuse of power an excuse for us to be denied services paid for by our tax dollars?

That some law enforcement officers engage in illegal, inhumane acts is not to be ignored because we may need to call them one day.”

“They need to be trained, mechanisms need to be put in place to prevent abuse

of power, and the public should have the expectation that law enforcement is trustworthy and acting within the law. The minister’s attention ought to be on addressing the issues highlighted in the report rather than pretending and trying to convince us that they do not exist. We know that they do, we demand reform.”

The WAGD said it visited ten facilities, including the Bahamas Department of Corrections, police stations, the Carmichael Road Detention Centre, and detention facilities for children in conflict with the law.

Mr Munroe said the government will comprehensively respond to the Working Group after its final report is released.

INFANT BOY ATTACKED BY DOG IN A GB DAYCARE A ONE-YEAR-OLD boy was attacked by a dog at a daycare facility in Grand Bahama on Monday, prompting a police investigation.

The circumstances of the incident are uncertain.

Police said in a press statement that the dog entered the unidentified daycare facility and bit the boy on his left foot and right leg.

However, outgoing Assistant Commissioner of Police Bernard K Bonamy told reporters the child was bitten after he and his care provider went to visit a neighbour to inquire about their health.

“When he opened the door, one of the dogs brushed past and bit the child on his leg. The mother of the relative flew down this morning, and that is actively under investigation,” he said.

Police said the child was bitten on his left leg and right leg and taken to hospital where his injuries were listed as non-life threatening.

The Animal Control Unit took the dogs, and the dog owner is assisting police with their investigations.

“In the past, we have seen dogs attack persons while they were out walking,” ACP Bonamy said.

“We have addressed that.

We had a media blitz and we found the owners and spoke to them about licensing their dog, and to walk the dog on the leash, and to protect or secure their yard so they cannot get out. Those matters are being looked into.

“When we find owners at fault they will be charged and placed before the courts. Those matters we are working closely with the Humane Society because we have dogs that roam all over and attacking persons. Those are being addressed.”

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PAGE 6, Wednesday, December 13, 2023

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

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Should murder accused seek safety behind bars?

WE are in a very strange situation in this country right now.

Police Commissioner Clayton Fernander has welcomed the decision of a man who begged a judge last week to send him back to prison for his own safety.

The man is Anthon Munroe. He is accused of the murder in September 2020 of Shermalle Ferguson, Jr – and has been on bail for more than a year.

That bail was set at $30,000.

Last week, he says someone shot at him outside his home – and off he went to ask a judge to send him back behind bars, saying it would be safer for him and his family.

The Commissioner, speaking yesterday, said: “He is now afraid and went back to the court and said, judge, please remand me, I don’t want my bail, cancel my bail, and other individuals should do just that. Say, I don’t want no bail. I want to live a little longer. Revoke my bail and put me back behind bars. And he did the right thing, and we want to encourage others to do just that because we see the trend, and we have to fix it.”

Let us recap a little here.

Mr Munroe is charged with murder.

He may be guilty. He may not be guilty. That is for the court to decide when his case is eventually heard.

Therefore, the Commissioner is welcoming a person who is not at present guilty of this crime begging to be locked up for his own safety and that of his family.

That is essentially admitting that the police cannot keep the streets safe.

Now that may be true – but it is hardly something for the chief of the police force to be encouraging people to go hide behind bars because that is the only way to stay alive.

Indeed, the Commissioner is encouraging others to do the same. It is as if he is throwing up his hands and saying well, we can’t keep you alive out there, so you’d best go to prison.

The problem that continues to lie at the heart of this issue is how long it takes such cases to be heard in court.

Look again at the date of the killing of Shermalle Ferguson, Jr. It was back in 2020. More than three years ago. How long exactly is someone accused of a crime supposed to sit in a cell waiting for a space in court for their case to be heard? It is more than three years on now – should Munroe go back to

jail for another year? Another two years? Three? More? What if that person is found innocent after all that time? How much time will an innocent person have lost inside the walls of Fox Hill prison?

That was one of the points raised by the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention in their report on issues in The Bahamas. The group highlighted the number of people killed on bail and called on the government to improve its ability to keep them – and, frankly, all people – safe.

However, Minister of National Security Wayne Munroe has rebuffed the findings of the working group, which included issues of forced confessions, police brutality and unlawful detainment.

He cast doubt on information having come from people who were detained or allegedly abused, saying, “When you decide whose account to believe, I just want you to take into account that the prisoner, the criminal, would always like you to silence your watchdog”.

The UN is an independent body – it has no reason to favour law enforcement or criminal – so when Mr Munroe urged Bahamians to trust law enforcement and not the “adverse” report findings, one has to question why he would not consider the findings in order to improve the systems we have in place.

We know people out on bail are being shot dead – the UN group simply suggests improving what we are doing to keep people safe.

We know there are issues with police officers who overstep the law – because we have seen findings of unlawful killing in shootings, we have seen cases of officers being disciplined for striking people, we have heard cases of claims even of torture.

We know there have been cases of unlawful detainment – which have sometimes led to sizeable court settlements.

To pretend these things do not exist is to stick one’s head in the sand, the only result of which is to show the world your posterior.

We undoubtedly have issues that need to be resolved – but citing it as a good thing that the police are unable to protect people not yet guilty of a crime is a very unusual stance to take.

AFTER the Bahamas Humane Society called for an end to chumming following a fatal shark attack, readers of www.tribune242.com had their say on the issue.

Bahamianson said: “Man, that is a no Brainerd. 1 +1=2. Shark is attracted by blood and fish parts. If human puts blood and fish parts in the water. Shark will come. It will come around the same time everyday or it will come responding to triggers. Triggers may include blood, fish splashing, the noise of an engine.. etc. If you have dive operations feeding the shark, the shark will associate the food with human. If human does not have food, the shark will bump the human waiting for food to drop. Dive operations and chumming should be banned. If shark kills human, shark should be put down like a pitbull is put down. Can’t make it any simpler.”

IslandWarrior added: “Shark Sanctuary or The Safety of Swimmers, A Dilemma For The Bahamas. There is a significant and somewhat sensitive issue in The Bahamas that some may want to overlook. The issue is the conservation initiative called ‘The Bahamas being a Shark Sanctuary’, which helps fuel a multi-billion dollar global ‘shark

JUNKANOO on Bay Street, Nassau in 2020.

Boy Scouts; please lower the volume EDITOR, The Tribune.

I COULD have written this letter six years ago; however, I have been reluctant to do so in order not to tarnish the good reputation enjoyed by the Scout Association of the Bahamas in this country.

On March 7, 2017 I wrote to the president of said Association complaining bitterly about extremely loud music emanating from the Scout Association building on Dolphin Drive during events. Nothing has changed from then until now so I am obliged to publicly embarrass the Scout Association with the hope that it will produce the desired result.

I live in an otherwise very quiet neighbourhood near to this building. Apparently, the Scout Association rents the building to event holders who almost always, it seems, erect very loud boom boxes and literally bombard the entire neighbourhood with excessively loud music for as long as

LETTERS letters@tribunemedia.net they wish from evening until very late into the night to the complete annoyance and discomfort of the residents of this area.

On Saturday, December 9, 2023, I was greeted to an unbearable dose of this treatment when I arrived home from work before 5pm. Eventually I managed to fall off to sleep, only to be awakened by the said noise pollution on the other side of midnight.

Immediately I called the police to lodge a ‘disturbing the peace’ complaint, only to be informed that at least one of my neighbours had already made a similar call earlier. I reckoned that mobile officers arrived again shortly thereafter when I detected a slightly lower music volume level.

The lack of humanity and civility of persons who

to identify the shark that did the killing, tooth prints perhaps? Or will you just go out there and kill every shark you come across and hope you got the right one?

If stupidity is a good enough reason, I can think of any number of humans who should be put down, at the very least they shouldn’t be allowed to breed.”

dive’ industry. The industry is not monitored and regulated by the elements of The Bahamas Government, whose only involvement is to issue low-cost permits to operate a dive operation in the Bahamas. These permits are used for research ventures and sometimes for commercial fishing operations as well.

But the control of this ‘Shark Sanctuary’ designation is external, and of course, these elements would care less if the Bahamas shark population has gotten to the point of being out of control, hence the ‘Shark Sanctuary’ designation.”

TheMessenger said: “Who’s having the brainfart here? How do you propose

Photo: Kristin Whylly

ThisisOurs replied: “If we had the resources to do so, the teeth could be used to track a shark. The teeth mark’s would be the first clue to the shark size then monitor that area for shark activity of given size. Determine if there is a pattern to visits. Determine if the same shark is visiting the area. Catch the shark. (This is the step with the lowest probability of success). Map the teeth compare the bite mark(?) Place a tracker on the shark. Again I dont believe we have the resources to do this, a lot of wait and see time, just saying there might be a way to narrow down to a specific shark.”

John added: “THIS ARTICLE IS WRITTEN VERY DECEPTIVELY! It more than insinuates that it is Bahamians who are feeding/chumming: baiting sharks. But isn’t it mostly the visitors who go on dozens of excursions daily to feed and swim with sharks?

do not live in this area, but think it is okay to come here and do this nonsense is quite disturbing, and it is absolutely not necessary. If you are having an event, I do not need to know that.

Likewise, if you want to enjoy your music, I do not need to hear it. What baffles me is that usually at these events the electronic system is turned up so loud that the sound is distorted, so the music cannot really be appreciated nor enjoyed by the attendees; neither can conversation be had.

Nonetheless this seems to make perfect sense to a great many of our people.

It is the civil duty of the Scout Association to ensure that event holders control the volume of their music so as not to disturb the peace and quiet of nearby residents. If it fails to do going forward, I will be obliged to write again.

WELLY FORBES Nassau, December 12, 2023.

BAHAMIANS knew a long time ago that sharks are nobody’s friends. If you see them in the water, you get out.

And you warn others not to go in the water. A shark may lurk for days and the locals will stay out the water until the shark eventually swims off. And sometimes this may take some forceful coaching from the local fishermen to get the shark on its way. Bahamians have always clean fish on the docks or near the waters edge. This unfortunate incident happened a mile away from the shoreline. OUT ON THE OCEAN, NOT near to shore. It’s the tours that go out on the ocean to chum and bait up sharks.”

Hrysippus replied: “John; your post is just silly. There are Bahamian entities chumming the water to enhance their businesses that rely on tourists.

Although I have read of reports of scientists chumming to attract sharks in order to ag them, this is most probably a very minor factor.”

JoBlow said: “Can the BHS explain why there are no shark attacks at Montague beach with the fishermen just up the road? Or do sharks prefer white meat?”

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Wednesday, December 13, 2023, PAGE 7

Bonamy hands over command of GB to ACP Shanta Knowles

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Staff Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net RETIRING Assistant Commissioner of Police Bernard BK Bonamy, Jr, officially turned over command of the Grand Bahama District to Assistant Commissioner of Police Shanta Knowles yesterday.

The handover ceremony at police headquarters in Freeport marks the first time a woman has been appointed officer in charge of Grand Bahama and the northern region.

Commissioner of Police Clayton Fernander encouraged officers to support the new ACP, one of nine officers promoted on Monday.

Commissioner Fernander said ACP Bonamy served with distinction during the 42 years of his career.

He said before he demits office, he would establish a programme or some way to remember men and women like Mr Bonamy who have served with distinction.

The commissioner was pleased the crime stats showed a reduction in crime in the northern region.

ACP Bonamy thanked the Grand Bahama community for supporting him during the past seven

months of his tenure as the officer in charge of the district.

He started his policing career as a constable at age 17. In 1986, his career took off after his transfer to the Criminal Investigation Department. He thanked his mother, Shirley, his siblings, and his children for their support over the years.

ACP Knowles said that she is prepared for the task ahead in Grand Bahama.

One of her goals, she said, is to see that the Domestic Violence Unit is up and running to support the victims of domestic violence on the island.

Commissioner Fernander said he had not forgotten his promise to appoint a Grand Bahama-born person to serve as the next ACP for the district.

“When I took office just over a year ago, I promised the officers here in GB that the next ACP in GB will be identified from here who born and grew here in GB. Ms Knowles is here to do just that, to mentor the men and women here that are chief superintendents who are looking for that next level, and my eye is on a few of them, and training will come.”

TEEN ADMITS TO STABBING ANOTHER YOUTH OUTSIDE MALL

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net A 16-YEAR-OLD boy admitted to stabbing another teenager multiple times while they were standing outside the Mall at Marathon earlier this month.

Magistrate Algernon Allen, Jr, charged the 16-year-old, whose name is being withheld because he is a minor, with causing harm and assault with a dangerous instrument.

The accused reportedly got into an argument with another 16-year-old boy

on Marathon Road around 4pm on December 1. After the argument escalated, the accused stabbed the victim multiple times with a knife. The victim was treated for his injuries and discharged from hospital.

After the juvenile entered a guilty plea in the presence of his guardians, he was granted $3,000 bail and one or two sureties.

Under the terms of this bail, he must obey a daily residential curfew of 6pm to 7am.

The defendant must return to court for a probation report on March 12, 2024.

MAN PLEADS NOT GUILTY TO BEING FOUND WITH FIREARM

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net A MAN was granted bail after he was allegedly found with a loaded gun in Pinewood Gardens following a brief police chase.

Magistrate Lennox Coleby charged Javar Gray, 24, with possession of an unlicensed firearm and possession of ammunition.

Police reportedly spotted Gray in a group of men outside a residence on Sequoia Street on

December 8. Although the defendant attempted to flee once he saw authorities, when police caught him, they allegedly found a tan and silver coloured Taurus G2C 9mm pistol on his person. This confiscated weapon was also found with nine rounds of 9mm ammunition.

After pleading not guilty to the charges, bail for the accused was set at $7,500 with one or two sureties each.

The trial in this matter begins on March 7, 2024.

MAN GETS MORE THAN TWO YEARS FOR THREE BREAK-INS IN ANDROS

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net A 51-YEAR-OLD man was sentenced to two and a half years in prison after admitting to a series of house break-ins in Andros over a period of a year.

Magistrate Samuel McKinney charged Phillip Saunders with three counts of housebreaking and three counts of stealing from a dwelling home. The defendant faced an additional charge of trespassing.

Saunders is accused of breaking into the homes of John Balswick, Marquell Cash and James Jones between September

6, 2022 and November 6 in Mangrove Cay, Andros.

During these three burglaries, Saunders is accused of stealing a collective $1,700 worth of property.

Saunders also allegedly trespassed on the property of Ishmael Delva in Andros on December 7.

The defendant pleaded guilty to all six housebreaking charges. However, he pleaded not guilty to the trespassing charge.

Magistrate McKinney sentenced Saunders to two and a half years at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services.

The defendant’s trial for trespassing is set to begin on March 4, 2024.

ASSISTANT Commissioner of Police Shanta Knowles, pictured centre, is also a graduate from the National Training Agency, where she took a level three leadership and management certificate programme. She was formerly chief superintendent and received her Institute of Learning and Management certificate during a ceremony at the National Training Agency on November 10 this year. The NTA said it was “very happy for our new Assistant Commissioner of Police Shanta Knowles and wish her all the best in this new role”.

Photo: National Training Academy

End hypocrisy over human rights reforms PAGE 8, Wednesday, December 13, 2023

SUNDAY, December 10, was Human Rights Day, with the theme of Freedom, Equality, and Justice for All (with italics indicating the emphasis on “all”). It marked 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The most translated text in the world, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights consists of 30 articles and serves as “a common standard of achievement for all peoples and all nations, to the end that every individual and every organ of society[…] shall strive by teaching and education to promote respect for these rights and freedoms and by progressive measures, national and international, to secure their universal and effective recognition and observance[…]”

It is the Universal Declaration of Human Rights that states that we are all born free and equal in dignity in rights, that everyone, without distinction, is entitled to all of the human rights and freedoms outlined, that we all have the right to life, liberty, and security of person, and that no one is to be held in slavery or servitude among many other rights.

The Human Rights 75 Initiative was launched to bring attention to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and a HighLevel event was organised to promote universality and indivisibility, look to the next 25 years, and bolster

THE TRIBUNE

By Alicia Wallace

the human rights ecosystem.

At the event, the Attorney General delivered pledges on behalf of The Bahamas at the High-Level event to commemorate the 75th anniversary by contributing to “change and concrete progress on the ground on the promise of freedom, equality and justice and accountability[…]”

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs website describes the pledges made as: (1) Strengthening and development of national human rights mechanisms and institutions in alignment with international standards, including the establishment of the Parliamentary Human Rights Committee, the Office of the Ombudsman and strengthening the National Reporting Cooperation Mechanism; (2) Strengthening cooperation with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) as host country for the proposed regional office of OHCHR for the Caribbean Community (CARICOM); (3) Ensuring equality in

nationality rights and (4) Taking concrete measures to address the existential threat of climate change and its adverse effect on human rights.

These pledges are without much meaning when we consider the complete and decided inaction of the Government of The Bahamas to protect, promote, uphold, and guarantee access to human rights. In April 2023, mere weeks before the appearing before the Human Rights Council for the Universal Periodic Review, the government passed a resolution in the House of Assembly to form a “Human Rights Committee.”

At the Universal Periodic Review, 17 Member States recommended that the Government of The Bahamas establish a national human rights institution (NHRI), many of them specifying that it be in line with the Paris Principles which outline specific responsibilities and modes of operation and gives a specific composition to guarantee independence.

A national human rights institution is not a

committee, and it is certainly not a parliamentary committee. It is to have pluralist representation to include civil society and universities and qualified experts. It is to have funding and its own staff to support its independence from the government.

It is expected to have a broad mandate including the promotion of the harmonization of legislation with international human rights instruments, encourage ratification and implementation of human rights instruments, contribute to reports to human rights mechanisms including treaty bodies, and to publicly advocate for and increase public education on human rights.

The Government of The Bahamas has not acted in alignment with its purported commitment to human rights. It readily participates in talk shops and makes statements and pledges in international spaces, but fails to follow through on commitments or even acknowledge that commitments have been made at the national level.

It is inconsistent even in its international acknowledgement of commitments.

For example, The Bahamas noted (meaning rejected) the recommendation to “ensure the full applicability of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women,” but supported (meaning accepted) the recommendation to “continue its efforts to harmonise its national legislation to match its international human rights obligations and commitments.” The 1993 ratification of Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination

against Women is, in fact, a human rights commitment.

It does not make sense for The Bahamas to accept a recommendation to harmonise legislation with international human rights commitments while refusing to fully comply with the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

Several member states recommended that the government of The Bahamas take measures to ensure the equal participation of women in political and public life. The government of The Bahamas noted, rather than supported, all of the recommendations in this area that obligates it to take specific action. Its nonsensical and false responses were, “There are a very high percentage of women having leadership in public and political life,” and “Women in The Bahamas are already participating equally in public life with their male counterparts.”

It is important to note that the second response conveniently excludes political life. The first response is especially concerning as it is absurd to suggest that less than 20 percent is high representation when women are more than 50 percent of the population.

The Government of The Bahamas is not only content with its own mediocrity, but is consistent in its attempts to mislead multilateral organisations and the general public with regard to its position on issues and progress (or stagnation). It continues to reference the human rights committee as though it meets international standards. It does not. It is not in line with the Paris Principles. It is not a national human rights

institution. No amount of pomp and pageantry around it will make it any more substantial or bring it any closer to the international standard. That the same government would suggest that 18 percent of parliamentarians being women is a high percentage is cause for great concern. Either the people submitting responses to the recommendations received in the Universal Periodic Review do not have a basic understanding of mathematics and, in particular, proportions, fractions, and percentages, or they have no commitment to gender equality or women’s equal participation and have set a devastatingly low bar that it does not intend to raise.

It remains to be seen whether or not the government will follow through on its commitment to address the issue of gender inequality in nationality law. When asked about the persisting inequality which prevent women from conferring Bahamian citizenship to their children and spouses, the government said it would take action upon the decision from the Privy Council. That decision was delivered in May 2023, more than seven months ago. Just days ago, the pledge was made to ensure equality in nationality rights. The pledges made by The Bahamas are not concrete and have no timeline, making them difficult to measure which was likely the point. The Government of The Bahamas participates in international events and processes in this marginal way, and perhaps its peers fail to call it out.

We need not fail it and ourselves in the same way.

PAGE 10, Wednesday, December 13, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

PATHOLOGIST Blue Hill Road Clinic donates to Good FORENSIC TESTIFIES THAT ADDERLEY KILLED BY A Samaritan’s Senior Citizen Home WAS BULLET TO HIS HEART

BLUE Hill Road Clinic held its annual outreach today, December 12, 2023, at the Good Samaritan’s Senior Citizen Home for the Aged, located in Yellow Elder Gardens. Nursing Officer in Charge of BHRC Mrs. Allison Levarity spearheaded the event, joining with her entire complement of staff, supported by Acting Principal Nursing Officer Mrs. Sherry Armbrister and Senior Nursing Officer Jacqueline Newbold. The group presented the home’s administrator with cash to help with the christmas festivities for the residents, and the staff purchased Christmas gifts for all of the residents.

Photo: Eric Rose/BIS

RODNEY ADDERLEY JR

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

OFFICE OF THE SPOUSE SHARES CHRISTMAS CHEER

ANN MARIE DAVIS IN A heartwarming display of holiday spirit, Ann Marie Davis of the Office of the Spouse of the Prime Minister extended a personal invitation to representatives from local non-governmental and non-profit organizations to attend a special gathering on December 11, 2023 at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs: the gathering marked an occasion for Mrs. Davis to present donations to support local community initiatives ahead of the Christmas season.

The Office of the Spouse of the Prime Minister, a dedicated platform for philanthropic initiatives led by Mrs Davis, orchestrated the giveaway to support and uplift the community during the festive period.

According to Mrs. Davis, fostering a sense of unity and compassion is a “fulfillment of the unwritten social contract that exists between the government and its people.”

“All of you are the symbolic gold standards of responsible citizenship, which is selfless and gratuitous service to others, which is an important element of nation building,” she said.

“We support your good work and we commend the strong and visionary leadership that continues to drive and superintend the operations of these various organizations. We are indeed a stronger and more civil nation,” she said.

Donations were presented to: Unity House, Pat’s Senior Citizens Home, Hilltop Ministries, Persis Rodgers Home for the Aged, Bahamas Children’s Emergency Hostel, The Nazareth Centre, Elizabeth Estates Children’s Home, FOAM Bahamas and the Ranfurly Home for Children.

A FORENSIC pathologist testified that Royal Bahamas Defence Force leading seaman Rodney Adderley, Jr, died from a bullet wound to the heart.

Acting Coroner Kara Turnquest-Deveaux presided as the inquest into Adderley’s police-involved death on January 10, 2022, continued yesterday.

K Melvin Munroe represents Corporal Rashad Pratt, the officer whose actions are the subject of the inquest. Bjorn Ferguson represents the deceased’s estate.

Body camera footage showed on Monday that the RBDF officer was detained by police and had his hands on his car after they approached him and gave him commands in a vacant lot on Dunmore Avenue. CPL Pratt’s body cam footage showed Adderley lunging at him while he was inspecting the man’s ID. The officer claims the deceased was reaching for his gun, prompting him to shoot.

Dr Caryn Sands, forensic pathologist at Princess Margaret Hospital, testified that Adderley’s official cause of death was a gunshot wound to the torso.

She observed that the deceased had two gunshot wounds to his chest and one to his abdominal region just below his navel. She also noted that the bullets exited the deceased’s body from the back.

The deceased had a scrape on his left thigh and abrasions to his right forehead and left arm.

Dr Sands said the bullets that penetrated Adderley’s body went through his heart and left lung, causing fatal bleeding.

Detective Sergeant Henrington Curry, a firearm expert, said he conducted a ballistic examination of the firearms of Cpl Pratt and his partner, PC Phillip Deveaux, on December 7.

In his report, he indicated that Cpl Pratt’s Sig Sauer 9mm pistol was capable of firing and that the bullets and bullet casings pulled from the scene could be ejected from that weapon.

D/Sgt Curry also noted that he was handed 10 unfired rounds with this weapon, which had a magazine capacity of 15 rounds.

PC Deveaux’s 9mm Smith & Wesson pistol was also deemed capable of firing. This weapon still had all 15 rounds in its magazine when it was surrendered to CSI. The firearms, magazines and the fired bullet and bullet casings recovered from the shooting were all shown in court.

Inspector Jamal Edgecombe of the police armoury said officers are trained to use deadly force against a target in extreme circumstances. He further said such force is justified if an officer tries to save their or another person’s life.

Inspector Edgecombe said Cpl Pratt was qualified to use 9mm pistols, shotguns, and rifles, according to his firing range reports. He said he endorsed Cpl Pratt’s training on behalf of the armoury, but did not directly oversee it.

He also said police-issued holsters exist, but not all weapons come with one.

During questioning from Mr Munroe, Inspector Edgecombe explained that officers are trained to interview people from a safe distance of about 7ft.

He said any person within three feet or arms distance of an officer is too close as they can grab the officer or their weapon.

However, Inspector Edgecombe acknowledged that officers must get close to suspects to arrest them.

The officer called stop-and-search operations one of the most dangerous in police work, with the standard practice calling for officers to be cautious at every step.

When Mr Ferguson asked if a suspect with his hands on a vehicle is considered a threat, Inspector Edgecombe said yes. He said he was trained to holster a weapon when searching a suspect.

Inspector Edgecombe told the lawyer he did not know if Cpl Pratt took defensive training as he could only speak to his firearm training.

Angelo Whitfield marshalled the evidence.

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Wednesday, December 13, 2023, PAGE 11

Biden takes tougher stance on Israel’s ‘indiscriminate bombing’ of Gaza Strip WASHINGTON Associated Press

PRESIDENT Joe Biden on Tuesday warned that Israel was losing international support because of its “indiscriminate bombing” of Gaza, speaking out in unusually strong language just hours before the United Nations demanded a humanitarian cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas war.

“Israel’s security can rest on the United States, but right now it has more than the United States. It has the European Union, it has Europe, it has most of the world supporting them,” Biden said to donors during a fundraiser Tuesday.

“They’re starting to lose that support by indiscriminate bombing that takes place,” he said.

The president said he thought Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu understood, but he wasn’t so sure about the Israeli war cabinet. Israeli forces were carrying out punishing strikes across Gaza, crushing Palestinians in homes as the military presses ahead with an offensive that officials say could go on for weeks or months.

Biden offered a harderthan-usual assessment of Israel’s decisions since the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas and the moves by his conservative government.

Meanwhile, Biden’s top national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, is heading to Israel this week to consult directly about timetables for ending major combat.

The president also renewed his warnings that Israel should not make the same mistakes of overreaction that the US did following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

He recounted a familiar anecdote about inscribing on a photo with Netanyahu decades ago, “Bibi, I don’t agree with a damn thing you have to say.” This time, the president added to his retelling of the story: “That remains to be the case.”

The 2024 campaign fundraiser was part of a gathering of Jewish donors, many of whom attended a White House Hanukkah reception on Monday evening; Biden’s fundraisers are

open to some reporters on the condition that no audio or video be shared.

His rhetoric to donors tracks his more candid and private messaging to Netanyahu on their frequent calls, according to two White House officials, where he reasserts US support for Israel before pushing for Israel to do more to help civilians in Gaza.

“Israel has a tough decision to make. Bibi has a tough decision to make.

There’s no question about the need to take on Hamas.

There’s no question about that. None. Zero,” Biden said. But he added, of Israel’s leader, “I think he has to change his government.

His government in Israel is making it very difficult.”

Biden specifically called out Itamar Ben-Gvir, the leader of a far-right Israeli party and the minister of national security in Netanyahu’s governing coalition, who opposes a two-state solution and has called for Israel to reassert control over all of the West Bank and Gaza. Ben-Gvir sits on Israel’s security cabinet, but is not a member of the country’s three-person war cabinet.

The comments prompted responses from both the Israeli military and also Hamas.

“We know to explain exactly how we operate with precision, based on intelligence, even when we are operating on the ground,” said Israeli military spokesperson Daniel Hagari. “We know how to operate against the Hamas strongholds in such a way that best separates the uninvolved civilians from terrorism targets.”

Asked about Biden’s comments, a senior Hamas official said in Beirut that “the resistance and the steadfastness of the Palestinian people have made Biden understand that the Israeli military operation is a crazy act.”

“The repercussions (of the war) will be catastrophic on the entity (Israel) and on the results of elections in which Biden might lose his seat in the White House,” Osama Hamdan, member of Hamas’ political bureau said during a news

PRESIDENT Joe Biden speaks at a Hanukkah reception in the East Room of the White House in Washington on Monday.

Photo: Bonnie Cash/AP conference.

During the fundraiser, Biden said that when he has warned Netanyahu of a loss of international support over the bombing, the Israeli leader has mentioned that the US had “carpet-bombed Germany” in World War II and dropped the atomic bomb on Japan.

“That’s why all these institutions were set up after World War II, to see that it didn’t happen again,” he said. “Don’t make the same mistakes we made in 9/11. There’s no reason we had to be in a war in Afghanistan.

There’s no reason we had to do so many things that we did.”

The UN General

Assembly voted Tuesday on a nonbinding resolution demanding an immediate humanitarian cease-fire, days after the US vetoed a similar measure at the UN Security Council. The Uk abstained from that 13-1 vote, but France and Japan were among those supporting the call for a cease-fire.

Only Security Council resolutions are legally binding under the terms of the international body’s charter, but the vote Tuesday sent a strong message on how the conflict was viewed around the world.

Before Biden’s comments at the fundraiser, Netanyahu said in a statement that he appreciated American support and that he’d received “full backing

for the ground incursion and blocking the international pressure to stop the war.”

“Yes, there is disagreement about ‘the day after Hamas’ and I hope that we will reach agreement here as well. I would like to clarify my position: I will not allow Israel to repeat the mistake of Oslo. Gaza will be neither Hamastan nor Fatahstan.”

Speaking at a forum hosted by The Wall Street Journal before either leader’s comments, Sullivan reiterated the Biden administration’s position that it does not want to see Israel reoccupy Gaza or further shrink its already small territory.

The US has repeatedly

called for a return of the internationally recognized Palestinian Authority and the resumption of peace talks aimed at establishing a Palestinian state alongside Israel. Sullivan said he would also speak to Netanyahu about his recent comments that Israel Defence Forces would maintain openended security control of Gaza after the war ends.

“I will have the opportunity to talk to Prime Minister Netanyahu about what exactly he has in mind with that comment, because that can be interpreted in a number of different ways,” Sullivan said. “But the US position on this is clear.”

UN GENERAL ASSEMBLY VOTES OVERWHELMINGLY TO DEMAND A HUMANITARIAN CEASE-FIRE IN GAZA UNITED NATIONS Associated Press THE UN General Assembly, including The Bahamas, voted overwhelmingly on Tuesday to demand a humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza in a strong demonstration of global support for ending the Israel-Hamas war. The vote also showed the growing isolation of the United States and Israel.

The vote in the 193member world body was 153 in favour, 10 against and 23 abstentions, and ambassadors and other diplomats burst into applause as the final numbers were displayed. The United States and Israel were joined in opposing the resolution by eight countries — Austria, Czechia, Guatemala, Liberia, Micronesia, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay.

The support was much higher than for an Oct. 27 Arab-sponsored resolution that called for a “humanitarian truce” leading to a cessation of hostilities, where the vote was 120-14 with 45 abstentions.

“Today was a historic day in terms of the powerful message that was sent from the General Assembly,” Riyad Mansour, the Palestinian UN ambassador, said after the vote. “And it is our collective duty to continue in this path until we see an end to this aggression against our people, to see this war stopping against our people. It is our duty to save lives.”

The United States has grown increasingly isolated in its support for Israel’s military campaign in Gaza after Hamas militants killed about 1,200 people and abducted

DISPLAY monitors show the result of voting in the United Nations General Assembly, in favour of a resolution calling on Israel to uphold legal and humanitarian obligations in its war with Hamas yesterday at UN headquarters.

Photo: Bebeto Matthews/AP about 240 in a surprise attack on Oct. 7.

More than the United Nations or any other international organization, the United States is seen as the only entity capable of persuading Israel to accept a cease-fire as its closest ally and biggest supplier of weaponry.

In tougher language than usual, though, President Joe Biden warned before the vote that Israel was losing international support because of its “indiscriminate bombing” of Gaza.

After the United States vetoed a resolution in the Security Council on Friday demanding a humanitarian cease-fire, Arab and Islamic nations called for Tuesday’s emergency session of the

General Assembly to vote on a resolution making the same demand.

Unlike Security Council resolutions, General Assembly resolutions are not legally binding. But the assembly’s messages are important barometers of world opinion.

But Mansour said “we will not rest until we see compliance of Israel with this demand from the General Assembly so that we can see a cease-fire in place.”

The resolution makes no mention of Hamas, and the assembly defeated two proposed amendments mentioning the militant group.

One, proposed by the United States, would have added a paragraph stating that the assembly “unequivocally rejects and condemns the

heinous terrorist attacks by Hamas.” The other, proposed by Austria, would have added a call for the immediate release of hostages still held by Hamas.

The war, now in its third month, has brought unprecedented death and destruction, with much of northern Gaza obliterated, more than 18,000 Palestinians killed according to the Hamas-run health ministry, 70% of them reportedly children and women, and over 80% of the population of 2.3 million pushed from their homes.

General Assembly President Dennis Francis, who chaired the meeting, said the world is witnessing “an onslaught on civilians, the breakdown of humanitarian

systems, and profound disrespect for both international law and international humanitarian law.”

He said civilians should never undergo the level of suffering in Gaza and asked, “How many more thousands of lives must be lost before we do something? No more time is left. The carnage must stop.”

US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield told the assembly “how Israel defends itself matters,” and she delivered several US demands, which she said the Biden administration will press at the highest levels.

“Israel must avoid mass displacement of civilians in the south of Gaza,” ThomasGreenfield said. “It must ensure sufficient humanitarian assistance to those who have fled violence and it must allow civilians in Gaza to return home as soon as conditions allow.”

But she made clear that the US remains committed to Israel’s right to defend itself.

She asked assembly members why it was so difficult for UN nations to condemn Hamas’ “terrorist actions” on Oct. 7, “to say unequivocally that murdering babies and gunning down parents in front of their children is horrific, that burning down houses while families shelter inside and taking civilian hostages in abhorrent.”

Israel’s UN Ambassador Gilad Erdan warned before the vote that a ceasefire “will only prolong the death and destruction in the region” and will be “a death sentence for countless more Israelis and Gazans.”

“A cease-fire means one thing and one thing only

— ensuring the survival of Hamas, ensuring the survival of genocidal terrorists committed to the annihilation of Israel and Jews,” he said.

Erdan said if UN member nations want a cease-fire they should call Hamas’ office in Gaza. He held up a sign with a phone number and the name Yehya Sinwar, the mastermind of the Hamas attack, who is at the top of Israel’s hit list.

The resolution expresses “grave concern over the catastrophic humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip and the suffering of the Palestinian civilian population,” and it says Palestinians and Israelis must be protected in accordance with international humanitarian law.

It also demands that all parties comply with international humanitarian law, “notably with regard to the protection of civilians,” and calls for “the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, as well as ensuring humanitarian access.”

Tuesday’s vote showed major shifts in voting. More than 25 countries that abstained on Oct. 27 supported Tuesday’s cease-fire demand, including Albania, Australia, Canada, Denmark, Estonia, Ethiopia, Finland, Greece, Iceland, India, Iraq, Japan, Latvia, Monaco, North Macedonia, Philippines, Poland, South Korea, Moldova, San Marino, Serbia, Sweden, Tunisia, Tuvalu, Vanuatu and Zambia.

Croatia and Fiji went from voting no on Oct. 27 to voting yes on Tuesday, while Hungary, the Marshall Islands and Tonga went from voting no to abstaining.

PAGE 12, Wednesday, December 13, 2023

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Fourteen Clubs Golf Academy ends the year on a high note FROM PAGE 16 busy season. We offered this drive, chip and putt event complimentary to all of our players and their families so it was a really great time for the kids. We had some golfers that went to enjoy the bouncing castle or the 360 photo booth after completing the drive, chip and putt exercises so it was just really good to see them have fun with each other,” the founder said.

The friendly skills competition allowed competitors to attempt the drive, chip and putt exercises three times and the point total from each was added together to determine a victor of the contest.

For the men’s category, Danny Davis scored the highest total with 103 for the trio of events. He earned scores of 17 (drive), 36 (chip) and 50 (putt) to become the winner. Ron Haynes placed second with 94 and Malcolm Adderley finished third with 67.

The third place finisher was very pleased to attend the event and witness the first-hand growth of Fourteen Clubs Golf Academy.

“It is crazy to see how far the junior programme has grown because I was in the programme at 16 when Georgette first started and to see the growth has been remarkable. Overall, I enjoyed the event and putting was my favourite part of the three,” Adderley said.

Payton Haye wrapped up the year-end friendly contest in first place with a score of 78 to lead the ladies. Nathalee Tynes, who earned the most points with 19 for the drive, capped off with 59 points for second.

Lori Greaves and Denise Poitier trailed both competitors for a third place tie with 45 points apiece.

Jacara Forbes picked up the most points with 104 for the 13-15 girls. She led the way for competitors, scoring a 65 in the putt exercise, 27 for the chip, and 12 for the drive. Maddison Carroll rounded up 72 points on Saturday for second and Chemari Pratt collected 65 points for third.

Forbes was happy with her efforts, especially for the putting portion of the day. “It feels pretty good.

I felt that I did pretty well

THE Fourteen Clubs Golf Academy closed out the year on a high note with a drive, chip and putt endof-year celebration at the Bahamas Golf Federation’s practice facility on Saturday. The celebratory event came on the heels of the return of the Front 9 golf tournament series at the end of November.

The young, aspiring golfers can be seen above with their certificates. in the putting event. The chipping event was the best for me and it stands out because I can hit high and low shots which really helps me with my skills,” she said.

Haley Hall finished atop the girls 10-12 division with a score of 87. Zamira Swann earned 60 points for second place and Mirah Nunn settled for third with 57 points.

Hall was pleased with not only the victory but being

able to reconnect with fellow golfers.

“The event was great I got to see a lot of players that I have not seen in a long time and it has been good connecting with them again. Putting is my favourite event but I was not able to do well today but I was pretty proud of the chipping event,” she said.

It was a rivalry among relatives for the girls 7-9 division.

Zion Poitier

narrowly edged out Zaire Poitier with 82 points compared to 81 points for first place. The latter took the second podium spot, meanwhile Londyn Strachan was third with 56 points.

Jermany Dawkins was the lone competitor in the 6 and under division. She totalled 28 points.

For the boys, Andrew Benjamin earned bragging rights in the 16-18 age group after finishing with

100 points for first. Angelino Cooper amassed 67 points for second place.

Rashawn Hanna stood tall on the winner’s podium after racking up 115 points to lead competitors in the 13-15 division. Juan Wilson took second and Zachary Joseph finished third.

Briland Cunnigham was most successful in the 10-12 age group with 62 points for first. Reef Harvey was victorious in the 7-9 division and Luca Greaves performed the best in the 6 and under division.

With the year almost entirely in the rearview for Fourteen Clubs Golf Academy, Rolle-Harris is looking forward to an active 2024 golf season.

“We are hitting the ground running early January with another drive, chip and putt event then some scramble tournaments which will then propel us into pro golf championships and the US kids’ tour. I see a lot of tournament golf in the future for our players to test and grow their skills,” she said.

The Front 9 golf tournament series resumes next year on January 10.

GOLFERS CAMERON RILEY, DEVAUGHN ROBINSON HAVE THEIR SIGHTS SET ON THE NATIONAL TITLE FROM PAGE 16 the only two females participating, while the senior pros are Chris Lewis, Glen Pratt, Vernon Lockhart and Greg Maycock. Robinson

and Riley head the list of men who will round off the anticipated field of 15-20 golfers.

“What we are trying to do is to get the association back on its feet,” Lockhart

said. “The association has been dormant for so long and it’s time that we put it on the right footing where we are able to control professional golf in the country.

“Because it’s been stagnant for so long, things have happened and we have no control over it. So we need to get the association back up and functioning properly. That is the same function.”

While the event is designed for 72 holes, at the end of the first 36 on Thursday and Friday, the low male professional will gain the exemption for the Exuma Korn Ferry and the male finishers in the final 36 holes on Saturday and Sunday will gain the spot for the Abaco Korn Kerry.

Robinson, who won the first qualifying tournament to earn the rights to compete in Exuma, said he wants to win again.

“My game is not as good as I want it to be, but I feel I’m gaining confidence in it every day,” said Robinson.

“Ocean Club is a course I know and love to play on, so I just have to manage it well and take advantage of the errors in my game.”

With both Exuma and Abaco on the line, the 35-year-old Robinson said he might as well go for both spots. He’s also thrilled with the fact that the BPGA is putting the national title on the line as well.

“I’m happy that the BPGA is bringing the Nationals back and the title is up for grabs,” he said.

“It’s something we haven’t done in a long time. We didn’t have the leadership that we have now in Glenn Pratt.

“He wants us to take golf to the next level and I think we have the talent to do it.

So with his support, we are going to try and get it done.

This is a step in the right direction to achieving that goal.”

Riley, who is coming in from Orlando, Florida, said he’s up for the challenge.

“I expect to compete and play to the best of my ability at the Ocean Club Golf Course,” he said.

“My game is in a great spot right now, so I’m planning on taking the tournament one shot at a time and letting everything else work out, controlling what I can control.”

In preparation for the tournament, Riley said he’s made some changes over the past month that he’s seen some results with.

“I’ve prepared very intentionally and hard for this event and I’m confident in myself and my abilities going into it,” he stated.

The 24-year-old admits that his aim for the tournament is a very simply one.

“I am shooting to win the championship and win both spots for both the events in January,” he said. “They are huge events that can springboard my career and the more experience I can get playing at the highest level, the better for me.”

Over the past year, Robinson and Riley have been participating in the Advocates Professional Golf Circuit where they competed in about 12 events during the course of the season, in addition to four invitationals from California to Philadelphia.

“I had a really good start in the season, but I sort of fell off a bit during the year,” Robinson pointed out.

“But I had some really good showings with some

really good scores, so I’m hoping to use what I learned to build as I improve a little more for next year.”

Like Robinson, Riley too has been playing in the Advocates Professional Golf Circuit.

He admitted that “it’s been an up and down year, but I’ve had more successes than failures. I’m looking forward to coming home and competing on a course that I competed on as a kid.”

Lockhart, on behalf of the BPGA, which includes Pratt, Riley, the first female president now the secretary and former president Lewis, who is now the executive director, thanked Insurance Management for putting up the trophies and the Ocean Cluib for hosting the event.

“We want to make an appeal to the wider golfing community, if they can still assist, we are still looking for a little sponsorship money,” he said. “We have prize money from the registration for all three categories, but if anyone wants to assist in increasing the funds, we will gladly accept the donation.”

THE TRIBUNE

Wednesday, December 13, 2023, PAGE 13

Tatum, Brown lead Celtics past Cavaliers 120-113 to remain unbeaten in Boston

By DOUG ALDEN Associated Press BOSTON (AP) — Jayson Tatum had 25 points and 10 rebounds, Jaylen Brown also scored 25 and the Boston Celtics remained unbeaten at home with a 120-113 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers last night.

Kristaps Porzingis had 21 points and 10 rebounds, Derrick White added 17 points and Boston held Cleveland scoreless for a stretch of 4 minutes, 40 seconds in the fourth quarter while finally putting away the Cavaliers, who had played on the road the night before.

Donovan Mitchell had 29 points and Darius Garland scored 26 for the Cavaliers, who couldn’t overcome the cold stretch in the fourth quarter. Cleveland was also outrebounded 45-35 in the opener of a two-game series.

The teams play again Thursday in Boston.

Max Strus added 17 points and nine rebounds for the Cavs. Cleveland was coming off a 104-94 loss at Orlando on Monday night, when the Cavs scored just 15 points in the third quarter. Cleveland started strong Tuesday, opening the game with an 18-4 run, but could not maintain the pace.

Porzingis broke a 106all tie when he earned back-to-back trips to the line midway through the fourth quarter and made all four free throws, then Tatum stepped back for a 3-pointer that put Boston up 113-106 with 4:26 remaining.

The Cavs hadn’t scored since an 18-foot jumper

by Mitchell with 6:05 left in the fourth tied it at 106.

But Cleveland didn’t score again until Jarrett Allen’s layup with 3:25 left pulled Cleveland within 113-108.

Brown opened the second half with a layup, then hit a quick 3-pointer that put Boston up 64-61.

BOSTON Celtics forward Jayson Tatum hits the floor after missing a shot on a drive to the basket against the Cleveland Cavaliers during the first half last night in Boston.

(AP Photo/Charles Krupa) Three straight 3-pointers 3-pointer for an 86-84 lead out-of-bounds call with

by Mitchell put Cleveland and Boston was up 94-92 2:18 left in the second quarright back in front and entering the fourth quar- ter. Tatum’s free throw tied the Cavs continued to ter, but couldn’t pull away it at 57-all, then a layup by lead through much of the by much. Mitchell was Brown put Boston up 59-57 third quarter. Boston went called for a technical after for the Celtics’ first lead of back up when Tatum hit a complaining about an on the game.

MAVERICKS TOP LAKERS 127-125

By SCHUYLER DIXON AP Sports Writer DALLAS (AP) — Luka Doncic had 33 points and 17 assists, Tim Hardaway Jr. scored a season-high 32 points and the Dallas Mavericks beat Los Angeles 127-125 last night in the Lakers’ first game since winning the inaugural InSeason Tournament.

Anthony Davis finished with 37 points and 11 rebounds, while LeBron James had 33 points, nine assists and eight boards as the Lakers’ seasonbest four-game winning

streak ended. LA erased a 15-point deficit early in the third quarter to set up an entertaining finish.

Dante Exum scored a season-high 26 points with a career-best seven 3-pointers on nine attempts, going 5 of 7 in the fourth quarter to help the Mavs stay in front. Austin Reaves had 22 for the Lakers.

With Doncic’s All-Star sidekick, Kyrie Irving, sidelined a second consecutive game with a bruised right foot, Hardaway was 10 of 21 from the field, including 5 of 10 from 3, and 7 of 8 on free throws.

Grant Williams scored 19 points for Dallas in his return from a three-game absence with a right knee injury, but the Mavericks were still without two starters in Irving and Derrick Jones Jr., who has a quadriceps injury.

Dallas didn’t have rotation players Josh Green (elbow) and Maxi Kleber (toe), and Seth Curry joined them when he was ruled out at halftime with an ankle injury.

The Lakers took their first lead since early in the first quarter on Davis’ first 3-pointer since October 29

for a 95-93 lead with 0.1 seconds left in the third.

Doncic and James traded go-ahead and tying buckets twice midway through the fourth.

Then James was called for an offensive foul.

Doncic’s 14th assist led to Exum’s 3-pointer for a five-point edge.

The Mavs, who won their fourth in a row, led by five before James hit a 3 at the buzzer for the final margin as Dallas held on in the second night of a back-to-back.

The Lakers had two days off after their NBA

Cup-clinching victory over Indiana in Las Vegas.

Doncic recorded his eighth consecutive 30-point game in his third straight game with at least 40 minutes.

The 24-year-old, fourtime All-Star hadn’t done that since the 2021 playoffs.

UP NEXT Lakers: At San Antonio today to finish a back-to-back in the first of consecutive games against the Spurs, who just set a franchise record with their 17th straight loss.

Mavericks: Minnesota at home Thursday.

JORDAN HEADLINES INAUGURAL CLASS FOR BULLS’ RING OF HONOUR CHICAGO (AP) — Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen and Dennis Rodman are the headliners for the inaugural class for the Chicago Bulls’ Ring of Honour.

The Bulls unveiled their plans for the Ring of Honour yesterday. The first class includes 13 men and the 1995-96 team, which went 72-10 and won the NBA title. The franchise plans to honour the group with a couple of events in January.

The inaugural class also includes Phil Jackson, Jerry Krause, Artis Gilmore, Jerry Sloan, Toni Kukoc, Bob Love, Chet Walker, Johnny “Red” Kerr, Tex Winter and Dick Klein. Jackson coached the 1995-96 team, which had Jordan, Pippen, Rodman and Kukoc, with Krause leading the front office and Winter serving as an assistant coach.

“The Chicago Bulls Ring of Honour will be a first-of-its-kind celebration honouring many of the legends who have helped shape our organisation over the past 57 years,” Bulls President Michael Reinsdorf said. “They have deep connections to our fans and community and represent a spirit of competition, hard work, and toughness.”

The Ring of Honour festivities include a private gala at the United Center January 11 and a halftime presentation during a Jan. 12 game against Golden State. Warriors coach Steve Kerr also played on the 1995-96 Bulls team.

The franchise plans to add to its Ring of Honor every two years, so the next class will be inducted in 2026. The criteria for inclusion for players includes spending at least three seasons with the team and being retired from basketball for at least three years.

CONSOLIDATED WATER BACKS MARIO FORD BASEBALL MARIO Ford Baseball participants joined over 200 youngsters in excitement during the Don’t Blink Home Run Derby Week.

A children’s clinic at the Andre Rodgers stadium kicked off the slew of events which brought together experienced and aspiring baseball players.

Consolidated Water (Bahamas) Ltd. (CWCO) made a donation to the Mario Ford Baseball programme to purchase uniforms and procure equipment. These items are crucial for athlete development and success beyond the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA)-organised event done in collaboration with Don’t Blink and Players Way. Wamonceur Victor, 14, has been playing baseball for three years, following persuasion from his friends.

“Starting from scratch, I did not know how to bat but coach Ford helped me,” he said.

“Everyone thinks you just throw the ball, but it is more than that, you practice and get better. A lot of people are here at Don’t Blink and we get to learn from them. They help us to get better and be able to do something in life with our talents.”

The Mario Ford Baseball programme runs for

COACH MARIO FORD, far right, with players from his baseball camp.

10 months each year and has been instrumental in promoting baseball among young athletes, providing them with opportunities to develop their skills and compete at higher levels.

The support from CWCO

will further enhance the programme’s ability to offer high-quality training and competitive experiences.

Keano Cooper, 11, who started baseball a little over a month ago, shared that by being in the baseball

programme, he learned to “bat, catch and slide when the ball is coming.”

Henderson Cash, CWCO’s general manager, expressed his enthusiasm about Mario Ford Baseball participants being involved

in Don’t Blink Week.

“CWCO knows the importance of investing in our youth. Sports programmes like the one headed by coach Mario Ford teach skills needed on and off the field,” Cash said.

“Our contribution is not just a donation, it is an investment in the potential of young athletes.

“We are excited to see them shine locally and beyond,” Cash said in a press release.

To Publish your Financials and

Legal Notices Call: 502-2394

PAGE 14, Wednesday, December 13, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

RED-LINE ATHLETICS’ ANNUAL CHRISTMAS AWARDS PARTY @ NATIONAL TRAINING AGENCY

COACH Michael Armbrister Leadership Award winner Morgan Moss gets his award from coach Tito Moss.

COACH Tito Moss makes a presentation to coach Rashad Patton for his contribution to Red-Line Athletics.

FEMALE scholar of the Year Jade Hudson gets her award from coach Tito Moss.

MALE newcomer of the Year Shevano Nixon receives his award from coaches Kryshell Rolle and Rachante Colebrook.

MOST Improved Athlete Tahj Brown gets his award from coach Tito Moss.

PARENT of the Year Jacquel Demeritte receives her award from coaches Rachante Colebrook and Tito Moss.

Top athletes receive annual awards FROM PAGE 16 Dean was joined by a number of athletes honoured for their performances as the most outstanding athletes in the various age groups, for their academic achievements, national team selections and a few other categories, including the collegiate male and female athletes, scholars of the year and the coaches’ choices for the outstanding athletes’ performers.

Additionally, Red-Line presented awards to their most outstanding parents and team managers as well as they took the time to recognise the contributions made by their sponsors.

Club president and head coach Tito Moss said they were really thrilled about the entire event, which got started with an emotional tribute from Clinton Laguerre, who along with Tumani Skinner are heading off to Vincennes University in January.

Also heading off in January are Jayden Demeritte to Park University and Alexis Brown to Dickinson State. They are four of the six Red-Line athletes who earned athletic scholarships this year.

Jonathon Fowler is in his freshman year at Oral Roberts University and Ezthia

Maycock is at Cumberland University.

As for the event, Moss said they got a chance to honour all of their studentathletes who excelled this past year, their parents, who supported the programme all year, as well as their donors, who made their contributions to the growth of the programme.

“We had a wonderful time and all of the parents and the athletes enjoyed themselves,” Moss said.

“Clinton, who came to us during COVID-19, really inspired us all with his presentation.”

UÊ iÀi½ÃÊ >Ê Ê >ÌÊ Ì iÊ awardees during the night: Most Outstanding Awards Under-9 girls- Jazmyn Demeritte; under-11 girls Kailee Knowles; under-11 boys- Jayden Allen; under13 girls- Cierrs Delancy and honorable mention - TeRae McKenzie; under-13 boysCh Kai Brennen; under-15 Girls- Caitlyn Smith and honorable mention Tamia Edwards; under-15 Boys- Shevano Nixon and honorable mention-Aalijah Taylor and Daveigh Farrington; under-17 girls - Darvinque Dean and honorable mention - Bayli Major; under-17 boysQuinton Rolle; under-20 girls -Nya Wright and honorable mention - Ezthia

SOME of the parents of the Red-Line Athletics athletes looking on.

Maycock; and under-20 boys - Tumani Skinner and honorable mention- Jonathon Fowler and Clinton Laguerre.

Academic Scholars (Tc -121) Ezthia Maycock, Jade Õ`Ã ]Ê i i` Ê Ü Ã]Ê Tamia Edwards, Jonathan Fowler, Jayden Allen, Jazmyn Demeritte, Ken i`ÞÊ > >]Ê /Þ iÀÊ À>â iÀ]Ê Shevano Nixon, Aalijah Taylor, TeRae McKenzie, Nya Wright, Daveigh Farrington, D’ Angelo Collie, Makyaha Johnson, Kevan

Saunders, Ch Kai Brennen, Kailee Knowles, Grevian Nixon and Aydin-Bethany Bullard.

National Team Honourees Madison Moss, Darvinique Dean, Bayli Major, Nya Wright, Clinton Laguerre, Tumani Skinner, Jonathon Fowler, Quinton Rolle, Shimar Bain, Morgan Moss and Tahj Brown.

Red-Line Special Awards Parents Award - Ms. Kimberley Bodie, Ms. Deangelia Deleveaux, Mrs.

/ iÀiÃÃiÊ Õ`Ã Ê > `Ê ÀÃ°Ê Nettera Brown. The Parent of the Year - Mrs. Jacquel Demeritte.

Highest Awards Female New Comer of the Year - Darvinique Dean; Male New Comer of the Year - Shevano Nixon; Female Scholar of Ì iÊ 9i>ÀÊ Ê >`iÊ Õ`Ã ÆÊ Male Scholar of the Year - Tyler Frazier; Most Improved - Tahj Brown/ Morgan Moss; Female Collegiate Athlete of the Year - Shania Sweeting; Male Collegiate Athlete of the

Year - Shimar Bain; Coach Mike Armbrister Leadership Award - Morgan Moss; i>`Ê >V Ê Ü>À`Ê Ê >thon Fowler and Athlete of the Year - Darvinique Dean.

Dedicated Service Team Managers (SF2109) - Mrs. Shanique Russell; Mrs. Thallise Maycock; Mrs. Nekeva Moss and Mr. Mark Major.

Donors of the Year Fidelity Bank (Bahamas), PricewaterhouseCoopers and JS Johnson Insurance Company.

CHAMPION MANCHESTER UNITED, SEVILLA TUMBLE OUT OF EUROPEAN COMPETITION AFTER CHAMPIONS LEAGUE LOSSES

By JEROME PUGMIRE AP Sports Writer PARIS (AP) — The Champions League proved too tough for Manchester United and Sevilla.

Now, even the consolation Europa League spot is out of reach.

Both teams were eliminated from European competition last night to finish bottom of their groups.

Three-time Champions League winner United needed to beat Bayern Munich at home and hope for a favourable result in the other Group A game but lost 1-0 to the six-time winner.

Instead, unheralded Danish side Copenhagen qualified in second place after beating Turkish team Galatasaray 1-0 at home.

Galatasaray finished third

to qualify for the Europa League knockout round playoff above last-place United — which sustained 4-3 losses at Bayern and Copenhagen and conceded 15 goals in six games. It is only the fourth time a Premier League team has finished bottom of its Champions League group.

Earlier on, defending Europa League champion Sevilla — which has won the Europa League seven times — lost 2-1 at Lens to finish bottom of Group B as the French team finished third.

Fans started leaving 10 minutes before the end at Old Trafford and others booed United’s players at the final whistle to heap the pressure on manager Erik /i Ê >}° After winger Kingsley Coman neatly scored Bayern’s goal in the 71st

BAYERN players celebrate after their group A Champions League soccer match against Manchester United at Old Trafford stadium in Manchester, England, yesterday. Bayern won 1-0.

(AP Photo/Dave Thompson) minute, the away fans the end of the first half goaded United’s support- after appearing to injure his ers with a rendition of groin. United was punished º ÌL> ½ÃÊ }Ê i»Ê Ü i Ê ÃÌÀ iÀÊ >ÀÀÞÊ > iÊ — a popular English soccer set up Coman as Bayern chant coined at the 1996 cut through a static defense European Championship, with ease. where England lost to Over in Denmark, midGermany in the semifinals fielder Lukas Lerager — followed by “Auf Wied- scored for Copenhagen ersehen!” (So Long!). in the 58th. Coach Jacob /i Ê >}Ê Ã>ÜÊ LÕÀ ÞÊ Neestrup sprinted onto the Vi ÌÀ> Ê `ivi `iÀÊ >ÀÀÞÊ field to celebrate with his Maguire limping off near jubilant players at the end.

Italian champion Napoli advanced to the last 16 after beating Portuguese side Braga 2-0 at home to finish second in Group C, which had already been won by Real Madrid.

African player of the year Victor Osimhen, who last season helped Napoli to its first Italian league title in 33 years, got Napoli’s second goal to continue his return to form. There was a rare soccer sight when veteran Croatia midfielder Luka Modric — the 2018 men’s Ballon d’Or winner — missed a penalty as Madrid fell behind but won 3-2 at Union Berlin. Forward Joselu scored twice as record 14-time champion Madrid finished with a perfect record. Braga finished third to reach the Europa League playoff.

Last year’s Champions League runner-up Inter

Milan and Spanish club Real Sociedad had already qualified from Group D and drew 0-0 in Italy, meaning Sociedad topped the group on goal difference.

Arthur Cabral’s backheel goal in stoppage time gave Benfica a 3-1 win at Austrian side Salzburg in the other game to secure a place in the Europa League playoffs.

In the other early match, striker Eddie Nketiah scored his first Champions League goal as Group B winner Arsenal drew 1-1 at second-place PSV Eindhoven in a match between qualified teams.

Group winners are seeded in the last-16 draw Dec. 18 and avoid each other. Teams also cannot be drawn against an opponent from their own country.

The Europa League draw is held the same day.

THE TRIBUNE

Wednesday, December 13, 2023, PAGE 15

CALENDAR FROM PAGE 16

BASSAI BAHAMAS KARATE-DOJO TRAINING SEMINAR A SUCCESS

By TENAJH SWEETING Tribune Sports Reporter tsweeting@tribunemedia.net THE Bassai Bahamas Karate-Do hosted a karate training seminar spearheaded by chief instructor for Japan Karate-Do International sensei Yasuyoshi Saito on Saturday at the St Gregory’s Anglican Church Hall.

The youth in attendance engaged in exercise drills, kihon, kata and kumite over the weekend.

Sensei Shawn Smith, chief instructor for Bassai Bahamas Karate-Dojo, said the one-day event was very beneficial to the youth involved.

“It is very beneficial because this is trans-style meaning it does not matter what style you are, you can be Goju-ryu, Uechi-ryu, or Shotokan but you can still learn the same basics.

There are some basic fundamentals that we all have in common which is why we started with the foundation because all martial artists can learn from it,” he said.

The martial artists worked on stances, breathing exercises, blocks and the various movements.

THE YOUTH in attendance engaged in exercise drills, kihon, kata and kumite over the weekend at the Bassai Bahamas Karate-Do karate training seminar at St Gregory Anglican Church Hall on Saturday.

With a large group of youth in attendance, sensei Smith said the reception of the training seminar was great. “The reception has been off the chain for a very small country. Our pool is not as big as most sports like soccer, basketball, football and baseball.

We have a community of people that are dedicated and they are here with us today to train and learn.

“The main thing is as long as their heart is open

to learn, the sky’s the limit.

Sensei Saito is here to pass on the true and pure traditions of karate to the next generation,” he said.

Sensei Saito, who took the reins from masters of shotokan karate Masatshi Nakayama and Hiroshi Shoji, was able to pass on a wealth of knowledge to participants on Saturday.

Saito left Japan and subsequently taught in France, South America and in the Caribbean.

The founder of Japan Karate-Do International teaches classes up to six days a week while travelling around the world for various seminars.

With his latest stop being The Bahamas, sensei Saito enjoyed his second appearance but wished he had more time to teach.

“It was good, it was only a little time but if I had more time I could teach it more. Karate has so many techniques so it is very

difficult to teach in such a short time. I worked on a few general ideas but I taught kicking which is very important in karate.

This is my second time here and I am hoping to see more people next time and I wish success for Bassai Bahamas,” he said.

Upon completion of the training seminar, all registered participants received certificates to validate their special training on Saturday.

the top male and four of the top female high school basketball teams from the US along with two “All Star” high school teams out of New Providence, one from the private schools and the other from the public schools. There is also an All Star high school team expected in from Grand Bahama.

“Our objective is twofold,” said Jerome Gomez, the local organiser. “First, to provide a platform for the local high school basketball talent in The Bahamas, exposing them to a high calibre of play and increase their exposure to scouts and college recruiters.

“Second, for our American teams, this tournament represents a unique and enriching experience, providing them the opportunity to compete internationally and offering these studentathletes the chance to travel abroad and learn about different cultures.”

Coach Kevin ‘KJ’ Johnson of CI Gibson has been selected to coach the AllStar Public High Schools male basketball team and coach Dario Burrows of CW Saunders High School has been selected to coach the All-Star Private High Schools male team.

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 Saturday, January 6 with a Family Fun Walk Race.

The event will honour the late Minister Charles Albury. 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.

The registration fee is $20. For those not participating in the walk, souse will be on sale. Contact Brent Stubbs at 426-7265 or stubbobs@gmail.com for further information.

SPORTS PAGE 16

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2023

Golfers Robinson and Riley have eyes on national title

By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@tribunemedia.net

D

evaughn Robinson and Cameron Riley are both coming home with the same goal in mind. They want to win the prestigious Bahamas Professional Golf Association’s National Championship title and earn the rights to represent the Bahamas at the two Korn Ferry Golf Tour events in Exuma and Abaco in January.

Vernon Lockhart, championship chairman of the BGF, headed by Glen Pratt, indicated that all signs are pointing to a very competitive tournament that will run from Thursday to Sunday at the Ocean Golf Club on Paradise Island.

With this being the 50th anniversary of the BGF, Lockhart noted that they have combined the men, ladies and senior divisions with the floating trophy for the low total score turned in by any player being presented in memory of Leroy ‘Roy’ Bowe, the first Bahamian professional.

The men’s trophy will be

NBA, Page 13

FOURTEEN CLUBS GOLF ACADEMY ENDS YEAR ON A HIGH NOTE

By TENAJH SWEETING Tribune Sports Reporter tsweeting@tribunemedia.net

Mar, and Racquel Riley from Grand Bahama are

THE Fourteen Clubs Golf Academy closed out the year on a high note with a drive, chip and putt end-of-year celebration at the Bahamas Golf Federation’s practice facility on Saturday.

The celebratory event came on the heels of the return of the Front 9 golf tournament series at the end of November which was its first hosting since before the COVID-19 pandemic.

On Saturday, golfers and their loved ones, who got the opportunity to partake in three different skill exercises for a friendly contest, were treated to a complimentary pot luck and reconnected with each other to end the year.

Georgette Rolle-Harris, founder of the Fourteen Clubs Golf Academy, felt the year end celebration was a great way to cap off a busy golf season. “It was a great way to finish a very

SEE PAGE 12

SEE PAGE 12

GOLFERS DEVAUGHN ROBINSON, left, and Cameron Riley are aiming to win the Bahamas Professional Golf Association’s national championship title. The prestigious event is scheduled to run from Thursday to Sunday at the Ocean Golf Club on Paradise Island. in honour of Donald ‘Nine’ Rolle, the first Bahamian pro winner, while the senior men’s trophy is in

honour of the late Jim ‘The Swingman’ Duncombe and the ladies’ trophy will be held in honour of Francis

Dunn, the first Bahamian female pro golfer.

Georgette Rolle-Harris, the head golf pro at Baha

Darvinique Red-Line Athletics’ Most Outstanding Athlete

By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@tribunemedia.net HURDLES specialist Darvinique Dean emerged on top of the class of 2023 as the Red-Line Athletics’ Most Outstanding Athlete.

The 15-year-old 10th grader at St Augustine’s College earned the honours during the Red-Line Athletics Annual Christmas Awards Party at the National Training Agency on Sunday.

In addition to the overall MOA, Dean also carted off the female newcomer award as the under-17 girls’ most outstanding athlete and for her selection to the Bahamas national team.

SEE PAGE 14

ATHLETE of the Year Darvinique Dean collects her awards from coach Tito Moss.

SPORTS CALENDAR FATHER MARCIAN PETERS Invitational High School Basketball Tournament THE annual Father Marcian Peters Invitational High School Basketball Tournament concludes today when the champions in all divisions are expected to be crowned.

The event, being held at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium. is designed for primary boys and girls, junior boys and girls, intermediate boys and senior girls.

James ‘Jimmy’ Clarke, the tournament organiser, indicated that the competition has been fierce so far and they are looking forward to a competitive showdown as they get into the medal round on the final day of competition.

A BASEBALL CHRISTMAS THE National Sports Authority is slated to host a Baseball Christmas at

Dec 2023

the Andre Rodgers Baseball Stadium December 22-23. The public is invited to come out and get signed autographs from the Bahamian pro baseball players, who will also compete in a series of games. Tickets are priced at $5.

HOOPFEST IN PARADISE THE second annual ‘Hoopfest in Paradise,’ featuring three All-Star teams from the Bahamas against some top-notch competition from the United States, is scheduled for Friday and Saturday at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium.

Hoopfest in Paradise is a high school basketball tournament hosted by Offshore Sports Group Ltd., a local sports events management company in conjunction with Hoopfest Basketball LLC - a US based sports event management company. The event features six of

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