标签： Bahamas

The local community in New Providence was left in profound grief following the tragic shooting of Distinguished Toastmaster Derek Garcia Rolle on Thursday night. The incident, which occurred shortly after 11 pm on Cambridge Drive, has sent shockwaves through the toastmasters’ community and beyond. Police reported that upon responding to reports of gunfire, officers discovered Mr. Rolle lying outside a residence with multiple gunshot wounds. Preliminary investigations suggest that the assailants, traveling in a dark-colored Japanese vehicle, opened fire on Mr. Rolle as he exited the residence before fleeing south onto Dover Avenue. The motive behind the shooting remains unknown. Mr. Rolle’s untimely death has prompted an outpouring of tributes on social media, with friends and colleagues remembering him as a dedicated leader, mentor, and friend. Toastmaster Franky Camille expressed deep sorrow, recalling Mr. Rolle’s unwavering support and belief in others. Emergency Medical Services confirmed no signs of life upon arrival. Toastmasters International also issued a heartfelt statement, honoring Mr. Rolle’s selfless contributions and urging members to honor his legacy. This tragic event marks the 71st murder in The Bahamas this year, underscoring the ongoing challenges of violence in the region.

A 16-year-old Bahamian student, Madeline Thompson, tragically lost her life in Panama after reportedly falling from the 27th floor of a high-rise hotel. The incident occurred while she was attending the FIRST Global Robotics Challenge in Panama City. According to Panamanian news outlet El Siglo, the accident happened around 6:05 am on Friday, when Thompson fell from the 27th floor to the 12th, landing in the hotel’s social area near the pool. She was sharing a room with two classmates at the time. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding her death. Thompson, who had just celebrated her birthday on September 26, was described by St Joseph’s Parish as a ‘cherished member of our parish family’ who regularly volunteered at the St Joseph’s Soup Kitchen. Her school, St Augustine’s College, expressed profound sorrow over the loss, stating that the entire school community is deeply affected. The school is in close communication with Panamanian authorities and is providing support to those affected by this tragedy.

In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, farmers on Crooked Island and Long Island are grappling with extensive agricultural damage, prompting urgent calls for government assistance. Michael Carroll, a seasoned farmer on Crooked Island, recounted the devastation wrought by the hurricane, which obliterated his five-acre farm. His banana and plantain crops, along with over 100 plantain trees, coconut, and papaya trees, were ravaged by 120 mph winds and severe flooding. Carroll, who has cultivated the land for 14 years, expressed profound discouragement, estimating an 18-month recovery period for his crops. He emphasized the critical need for financial aid to restore his farm, which had been a vital source of fresh produce for the local community and his store. Photographs from his farm depicted uprooted trees, debris, and stagnant floodwaters, underscoring the scale of destruction. Despite the setback, Carroll remains hopeful that with government support, he can rebuild and resume farming. Meanwhile, Long Island MP Adrian Gibson reported similar agricultural losses in his constituency, though he noted that the damage was less severe compared to Hurricane Joaquin in 2015. Gibson highlighted flooding as a primary concern, attributing it to inadequate drainage systems, and pledged to address the issue. He also mentioned that several properties, including his own home, suffered roof damage, but utilities and downed telephone lines were being restored. Gibson has been actively engaging with residents to ensure their needs are met, including arranging drinking water supplies for affected households. He emphasized the necessity of government and NGO intervention to aid in the recovery and restoration efforts following the storm.

In a dramatic turn of events, the Bahamas’ most renowned Junkanoo groups—the Saxons, the World Famous Valley Boys, Roots, and One Family—have collectively decided to boycott this year’s holiday parades. This unprecedented move, confirmed after a unanimous vote by group leaders on Wednesday, threatens to disrupt the nation’s largest cultural celebration and significantly impact vendors and organizers. Several smaller B groups are also expected to follow suit, with an official announcement from the Junkanoo Corporation of The Bahamas (JCNP) anticipated soon. The decision stems from escalating tensions between Junkanoo leaders and the Davis administration, particularly over the proposed Junkanoo Bill and the government’s decision to transfer control of the parades to a newly established Parade Management Committee. Minister of Youth, Sports, and Culture Mario Bowleg’s recent declaration prohibiting private or competing events under the new system has further exacerbated the rift. JCNP-affiliated groups have long warned that these changes could fracture the Junkanoo community, and the corporation has hinted at organizing independent events in protest. However, their efforts appear stifled, as the JCNP was reportedly denied permission to practice at the Sports Centre on November 23. The fallout has left food vendors anxious, fearing a sharp decline in turnout and sales. Despite increased seed funding announced by the government in September, including a $10,000 boost for Category A groups, the dispute shows no signs of resolution. Prime Minister Philip Davis, who met with JCNP officials earlier this month, has distanced himself from the conflict, stating, ‘Don’t bring me into it.’

St Andrew’s School has marked a significant milestone in its commitment to sustainability by unveiling a state-of-the-art solar power array. The project, celebrated during a commissioning ceremony, was lauded by Minister of Energy and Transport JoBeth Coleby-Davis as a pioneering example of renewable energy adoption and youth leadership.

The National Junkanoo Committee (NJC) has firmly dismissed concerns about the readiness of this year’s Boxing Day and New Year’s Day parades, emphasizing that preparations are progressing smoothly and the events remain on track. In a statement released on Friday, the NJC highlighted that Junkanoo participants from various organizations are actively engaged in designing costumes, crafting music, and preparing to showcase their creativity on Bay Street during the festive season. This announcement came in response to earlier reports from the Junkanoo Corporation New Providence (JCNP), which revealed that several prominent A groups, such as the Saxons Superstars, Roots, One Family, and the Valley Boys, would not participate in the government-organized parades. Instead, these groups plan to host independent community Junkanoo events. The Tribune had initially reported on the groups’ withdrawal, sparking speculation about the future of the national celebrations. However, the NJC clarified that it has not received any formal communication from major groups indicating their withdrawal. The committee also reassured the public that sponsors remain fully committed to the government-run parades and continue to support the NJC’s management of the events. The NJC reiterated its dedication to delivering a safe, fair, and transparent parade experience that celebrates the rhythm, unity, and artistic heritage of Bahamian culture. ‘Junkanoo belongs to the people,’ the committee stated, ‘and the NJC is committed to ensuring that the sounds of drums, horns, and cowbells fill Bay Street this Christmas on New Providence, as they have for generations.’

As Hurricane Melissa wreaked havoc across the central and southeast Bahamas, Prime Minister Philip Davis assured the nation of the government’s unwavering commitment to rebuilding and recovery. Addressing Parliament, Davis emphasized the resilience of the Bahamian people and the government’s preparedness to provide relief once the storm subsided. Forecasters indicated that Melissa, which had weakened to a Category Two hurricane, was expected to leave Bahamian waters by early morning. ‘We know the toll these storms can take, but we also know the strength of our people,’ Davis declared. ‘Whatever happens, we will rebuild, recover, and rise again.’ The hurricane, which had previously devastated Jamaica and Cuba, prompted one of the largest evacuations in recent Bahamian history, with 1,485 residents relocated before flights were suspended. While some evacuees reported challenges such as long waits and poor communication, Minister of Disaster Risk Management Leon Lundy affirmed the success of the evacuation process, highlighting the discipline and coordination involved. Davis also expressed solidarity with Jamaica and Cuba, acknowledging their support during past crises like Hurricane Dorian. He underscored the storm as a stark reminder of the urgent threat posed by climate change and reiterated his commitment to advocating for climate justice and fair financing for small island states. Lundy noted that shelters were well-stocked and communication systems remained operational throughout the crisis.