An eight-year-old boy, Dylan Durham, is battling severe injuries after a vicious pit bull attack behind his father’s restaurant earlier this month. The third grader, who remains hospitalized in serious condition, has undergone two surgeries and is unable to use his right hand. A GoFundMe campaign, launched to raise $5,000 for his medical expenses, has shared harrowing images of Dylan’s injuries, highlighting the extent of the trauma. The incident occurred on November 8, when three dogs, two of which turned aggressive, attacked Dylan on Rosetta Street. Emergency Medical Services rushed him to Princes Margaret Hospital, where he has since been treated in the Children’s Ward and intensive care unit. Tony Morris, the organizer of the fundraising page, described Dylan as brave and resilient but emphasized the emotional and financial toll on his family. Dylan’s parents have been forced to miss work to stay by his side, compounding their stress. The GoFundMe campaign, shared by Dylan’s school, Jordan Prince Williams Baptist, has raised over $2,000 so far. Animal Control officers have removed one dog from the property, while the other two were euthanized on November 11. Authorities confirmed that Dylan’s condition, though serious, is not life-threatening. His recovery will require additional surgeries, specialized care, and rehabilitation.
作者： admin
-
Jobless numbers fall: Rate down to 9.3% as nearly 4,000 find work
The Bahamas has witnessed a notable decline in its unemployment rate, which fell to 9.3 percent in the second quarter of 2025, as revealed by preliminary data from the Bahamas National Statistical Institute (BNSI). This marks a significant improvement from the first quarter’s 10.8 percent, driven by a surge in employment figures between April and June. Total employment rose to 218,620, an increase of 3,895 jobs, while the number of unemployed individuals dropped to 22,470, reflecting a reduction of 3,455. Both genders benefited from this positive trend, with male unemployment decreasing from 12,630 to 10,690 and female unemployment declining from 13,295 to 11,780. Youth unemployment also saw a slight improvement, falling to 20.3 percent, a 0.6 percentage point decrease from the previous quarter. The labour force expanded modestly to 241,090, with the participation rate climbing to 76.7 percent. Male participation rose to 80.7 percent, while female participation reached 72.4 percent. Key sectors such as construction, wholesale and retail, and community services experienced significant employment gains, with construction leading the way at a 17 percent increase. The number of discouraged workers, those who have stopped seeking employment due to perceived lack of opportunities, plummeted by 64 percent to 2,270. Educational qualifications among the workforce varied, with 27 percent reporting no formal examinations as their highest qualification, while 26 percent held a Bahamas General Certificate of Secondary Education.
-
Ingraham breaks with FNM over Returning Officer row
In a surprising turn of events, former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham publicly supported the retention of Returning Officer Neil Campbell for the Golden Isles by-election, despite objections from his own party, the Free National Movement (FNM). This endorsement came just a day before Parliamentary Commissioner Harrison Thompson confirmed his decision to keep Mr. Campbell in his role, expressing confidence in the election’s transparency and impartiality.
The FNM, led by Chairman Dr. Duane Sands, had raised concerns about Mr. Campbell’s suitability, citing alleged conflicts of interest. These concerns were amplified when Mr. Campbell referred to Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis as his ‘adopted father’ during a press conference. However, Mr. Thompson defended Mr. Campbell, highlighting his voluntary disclosure of personal connections and his long-standing reputation as a respected public officer.
Mr. Thompson emphasized the challenges of finding individuals in The Bahamas who are entirely disconnected from political figures, given the country’s small size and interconnected society. He stated, ‘I do believe that Mr. Campbell will execute his public duties as Returning Officer without fear or favor.’
Meanwhile, Mr. Ingraham acknowledged Mr. Campbell’s inexperience but dismissed claims of wrongdoing. He attributed the FNM’s suspicions to procedural missteps during the advance poll, such as Mr. Campbell’s initial reluctance to place ballots in the designated box. However, Mr. Ingraham expressed confidence that Mr. Campbell had learned from these mistakes and would ensure a smooth election process.
Addressing FNM supporters at a rally, Mr. Ingraham urged them to focus on voter turnout rather than concerns about Mr. Campbell’s impartiality. He reassured the public that The Bahamas’ electoral system is robust, with sufficient safeguards to prevent election fraud. ‘Whoever wins on Election Day will win,’ he declared, emphasizing the country’s history of fair elections under various governing parties.
Mr. Campbell, who has extensive experience in overseeing elections both domestically and internationally, remains at the center of the debate as the Golden Isles by-election approaches.
-
Arnold’s Department Store demolished as Cooper looks to remedy ‘dead after five-O-clock’ downtown
The Davis administration took a significant step in its downtown revitalization efforts by demolishing the historic Arnold’s Department Store on Elizabeth Avenue last Friday. The move is part of a broader initiative to rejuvenate Bay Street, Nassau’s main thoroughfare, following the devastating fire at Victoria Court in May. Tourism Minister Chester Cooper emphasized that the demolition aligns with the government’s vision to transform the area into a vibrant hub for business, tourism, and community life. ‘We’ve already demolished over a dozen buildings and are making steady progress,’ Cooper stated during a press briefing at the site. ‘This is about planning for the future and creating something magnificent for this space.’ The minister highlighted the government’s long-term goals, which include attracting investment, enhancing the tourist experience, and improving the area’s aesthetic appeal. Cooper also expressed optimism about fostering a lively atmosphere on Bay Street, which currently ‘goes dead at five o’clock.’ He encouraged Bahamians to seize the emerging business opportunities and envisioned mixed-use developments, including residential spaces, hotels, and innovative rooftop areas. The demolition, he noted, is intended to spark public interest and engagement in the revitalization project.
-
People with leptospirosis symptoms urged to seek immediate medical attention
Jamaica is grappling with a surge in leptospirosis cases following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, prompting health officials to issue urgent warnings to the public. Dr. Karen Webster Kerr, the National Epidemiologist, has emphasized the need for immediate medical attention for anyone exhibiting symptoms of the disease. Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton confirmed the outbreak during a press conference on Friday, revealing that confirmed and suspected cases have been reported across eight parishes, including St. Elizabeth, St. Catherine, Hanover, Westmoreland, Trelawny, St. Ann, St. James, and St. Mary. Between October 30 and November 20, there have been nine confirmed cases, 28 suspected cases, and six suspected deaths linked to the illness. Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection transmitted through contact with water or soil contaminated by the urine of infected animals, particularly rodents, presents initially with mild, flu-like symptoms such as high fever, headache, chills, and muscle aches. However, severe cases can lead to kidney or liver failure, internal bleeding, and even death if untreated. Dr. Webster Kerr highlighted that advanced symptoms include coughing up blood, blood in stool, inflammation around the heart, irregular heartbeat, fatigue, shortness of breath, and swollen feet. Treatment often involves intravenous fluids and, in severe cases, intensive care. The outbreak has been exacerbated by stagnant water left in communities after the hurricane, creating ideal conditions for the Leptospira bacteria to thrive. Residents are advised to avoid contact with standing water, especially farmers and those with open wounds. Meanwhile, Dr. Webster Kerr reassured the public that there is no outbreak of gastroenteritis, and influenza cases, while increasing seasonally, remain below epidemic levels. COVID-19 activity is also low, with minimal respiratory virus circulation. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Jacquiline Bisasor-McKenzie reported that 60% to 75% of health centers in the most affected parishes—Trelawny, St. James, Hanover, Westmoreland, and St. Elizabeth—have resumed normal operations.
-
Costaatt graduates urged to live boldly, think critically
The College of Science, Technology, and Applied Arts of Trinidad and Tobago (Costaatt) marked its 25th anniversary with a vibrant graduation ceremony on November 22 at the Centre of Excellence in Macoya. The event highlighted exceptional achievements across diverse fields, including graphic design, mass communication, accounting, and radiography. Among the standout graduates was Zoe Laydoo, who earned her BA in Mass Communication with an impressive GPA of 3.963 and delivered a heartfelt valedictorian speech. Laydoo emphasized the power of storytelling in fostering human connections and paid tribute to her peers who balanced work, family, and studies to achieve their degrees. Shakira Jones graduated magna cum laude in Accounting, while Niema Rahaman, Kareena Rampersad, and Travis Ali shared the Wilma Collins Award of Excellence in Radiography. Leah Hanley received the Academic Excellence Award in Library and Information Studies. The ceremony also commemorated Costaatt’s institutional accreditation milestone in 2010 and featured reflections from Aventa Group CEO James Walker, who encouraged graduates to embrace confidence, critical thinking, and perseverance. Minister of Tertiary Education Senator Prakash Persad highlighted the challenges and opportunities posed by AI and climate change, urging students to remain resilient. Acting President Naseem Koylass praised the graduates’ determination and announced the new Dr Gillian Paul Award for Academic Excellence and Community Service. The event concluded with the conferral of degrees across multiple disciplines and the presentation of the Partnership Award to Republic Bank and the National Petroleum Institute of TT for their support in Costaatt’s cashless initiative.
-
Cummings: Government locked out 300 aspiring farmers
Former Minister of Youth Development and National Service, Foster Cummings, has publicly accused the United National Congress (UNC) government of dismantling a significant labor-intensive agricultural initiative, leaving hundreds of young people unemployed. In a widely circulated social media video, Cummings revealed that the Youth Agricultural Shade House Project in Tucker Valley, Chaguaramas, has been abruptly shut down, barring access to approximately 300 trainees involved in the program. Launched in August 2024 by former Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley, the project aimed to equip young nationals aged 16-35 with agricultural skills through shade-house cultivation of high-value crops. The initiative, a collaboration between the Ministry of Youth Development and National Service and The University of the West Indies (UWI), St. Augustine, provided trainees with a daily stipend of $150. Cummings highlighted that the project was inspired by a successful Guyanese program and had four completed shade houses with 16 more under construction before the UNC came to power in the April 28 general election. He criticized the government for discontinuing the program, locking out the co-operative established to market produce, and halting construction work. Cummings also expressed concern over broader social-programme cutbacks, including the discontinuation of URP and CEPEP initiatives, and urged the government to reconsider its decision, emphasizing the impact on young people’s livelihoods. He further alleged that the site might be handed over to a private individual, sidelining the trainees. Despite multiple attempts to seek clarification from Agriculture Minister Ravi Ratiram, no response has been received.
-
PM, Opposition mourn UNC councillor’s ‘tragic’ death
The nation of Trinidad and Tobago is reeling from the tragic deaths of UNC Siparia East/San Francique South councillor Romona Victor and her husband, Rodney Ramsumair, whose bodies were discovered on November 23 at Coora Road, Siparia. The incident has prompted an outpouring of grief and calls for urgent action against domestic violence. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, also the UNC political leader, expressed profound sorrow in a Facebook post, describing Victor as a dedicated and compassionate public servant who tirelessly served her community. She emphasized the need for support systems to help those facing personal struggles. Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles echoed these sentiments, stressing that the tragedy transcends political affiliations and calls for a unified national response. Beckles highlighted the urgent need to strengthen legal frameworks, enhance gender-based violence units, and improve police sensitivity and victim support services. She also noted the poignant timing of the incident, coinciding with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls on November 25. Patriotic Front leader Mickela Panday also expressed her condolences, urging humanity to take precedence over politics in such moments of shared grief.
-
US driver ‘forgot’ road rules in head-on crash that killed two
A pre-dawn journey to school in North Abaco turned into a heart-wrenching tragedy on Friday, claiming the lives of Monique Williams, a seasoned pre-school teacher, and her 13-year-old nephew, Terrance Williams. The fatal head-on collision occurred on SC Bootle Highway, leaving a close-knit family shattered and the Treasure Cay community in mourning. Ms Williams, 53, was driving Terrance and another teenager to school when her vehicle collided with a Ford Excursion carrying an American couple en route to a bone-fishing trip. According to Abaco journalist and pastor Silbert Mills, the visitors had missed their turn and mistakenly drove on the wrong side of the road, marking their first visit to The Bahamas. Terrance, an eighth-grade student at SC Bootle High School, and Ms Williams, who had dedicated nearly 30 years to teaching, were both deeply cherished in their community. The third passenger, Calsey Rolle, remains hospitalized. The Williams family, already tightly bonded, is grappling with the immense loss. Emmise Bootle, Ms Williams’ niece and Terrance’s cousin, described the duo as inseparable, with Ms Williams treating Terrance as her own son. Terrance, a quiet and thoughtful boy, was beginning to explore life’s deeper questions, while Ms Williams was eagerly anticipating retirement. The Ministry of Education and SC Bootle High School have paid heartfelt tributes to the victims, celebrating Terrance’s promise and Ms Williams’ unwavering dedication to education. The tragedy has left parents and former students reflecting on the profound impact Ms Williams had on their lives, even as they seek solace in faith.
-
Ex-PM: ‘March election’ if PLP wins
Former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham has forecasted that the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) may call for an early general election if they secure victory in today’s Golden Isles by-election. Speaking at a Free National Movement (FNM) rally on Friday, Ingraham emphasized the high stakes surrounding the by-election, which both major parties view as a critical political litmus test. “If they win on Monday, they’ll push for an early election by March. If they lose, they’ll stagnate,” he remarked. The by-election, necessitated by the passing of Vaughn Miller, features PLP’s Darron Pickstock and FNM’s Brian Brown as the leading contenders, alongside Brian Rolle of the Coalition of Independents and independent candidate Karen Butler. Historically, by-elections have favored the ruling party, and political analysts are closely monitoring the outcome to gauge public sentiment ahead of the general election, which must occur before October next year. Voter turnout is expected to play a pivotal role, intensifying recent campaign efforts. Results are anticipated by early evening. Ingraham revealed he initially advised Brown against running, citing historical trends favoring the PLP in by-elections. However, Brown’s determination to represent the community prevailed. Ingraham framed the contest as both a referendum on the Davis administration and an opportunity for the FNM to reclaim influence in a constituency he believes has been neglected. He praised Brown as a grounded candidate with deep community ties, likening him to former Adelaide MP Frank Watson. Ingraham expressed surprise at Brown’s 2021 loss, given his strong local support, and highlighted Brown’s integrity, stating he seeks no personal gain from the position. “Brian Brown isn’t looking for anything; he’s here to serve,” Ingraham concluded.