NASSAU, BAHAMAS Health officials have confirmed two additional cases of COVID-19 in Grand Bahama, taking the total number of cases to 113.

This follows an announcement from Pizza Hut Freeport, which advised today that a team member from its Mall location has tested positive for COVID-19.

Grand Bahama has seen a spike in new cases with eight cases in six days.

On Wednesday, health officials confirmed two new cases of COVID-19 on Grand Bahama after there had been no cases on the island for more than 60 days.

The pair confirmed on Wednesday were the first cases for the country in more than three weeks.

The Pizza Hut employee is currently in quarantine and receiving treatment as needed, the company said in a statement.

All employees exposed to the team member have been identified by the Ministry of Health and are in self-isolation, the statement read.

The health and well being of our team members and customers is our number one priority, especially in these uncertain times.

The restaurant was temporarily closed for sanitization and is expected to reopen on Wednesday.

There have been 16 confirmed cases in Grand Bahama, 83 in New Providence, one in Cat Cay, and 13 on Bimini.

In a statement, the Ministry of Health also advised that its dashboard has been updated to include a tab for non-COVID related deaths.

There were two individuals who were previously confirmed to have COVID-19 who passed away, the statement read.

A review was completed with local and international personnel who confirmed that the deaths were not due to COVID-19.

Therefore, the dashboard will now feature the tab Non-COVID Related Deaths to classify a patient that was diagnosed with COVID-19, but the cause of death was not due to COVID-19.

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Two new COVID-19 cases in Grand Bahama - EyeWitness News

Travelers to The Bahamas must complete a Bahamas Health Visa application and present a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test with a sample taken within 10days of arrival.

The Ministry of Health said effective immediately, all travelers will be required to complete an electronic Bahamas Health Visa application before departure from the place of embarkation.

This can be found at travel.gov.bs. Travelers are required to upload a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test and provide contact information.

The Government of The Bahamas will accept the negative COVID-19 RT-PCR (swab) test if the sample was taken within 10ten days of arrival. Tests over 10days old will not be accepted.

An automated response will be provided once the application is completed. The only persons approved to travel are those who have received a green color-coded response, as proof of approval. This confirmation must be presented upon arrival in The Bahamas.

The Health Visa application process will take 24 to 48hours and should be completed with adequate lead time, the Ministry said.

Failure to comply with the stated requirements will result in denied entry.

It is recommended that all travelers interested in visiting The Bahamas review requirements applicable to each member of their traveling party at http://www.bahamas.com/travelupdates before booking a trip.

For more information, or to view the Tourism Readiness and Recovery Plan, please visit http://www.bahamas.com/travelupdates. You may also contact the Ministry of Tourism COVID-19 travel hotline at (242) 502-0829 Monday to Friday, 8 AM 6 PM, or via email at contactusteam@bahamas.com.

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Health Visa needed for travel to The Bahamas - Loop News St. Lucia

In a telephone pre-trial hearing yesterday evening, art dealer Inigo Philbrick, who was officially indicted on charges of wire fraud and aggravated identity theftby the US government on July 13, was denied bail and ordered to be held in a Manhattan correctional facility.

The bulk of the evenings hearing centered on Philbricks actions over the past several months, his perceived intentions, and whether he posed a flight risk.

It emerged that Philbricks mother, Jane, was willing to put up her house in Connecticut as bond for his release. Philbricks fiance, former reality TV star Victoria Baker-Harber, and her family were also willing to put up additional collateral, including real estate in the Bahamas, and other assets abroad, worth an estimated $2 million.

When he left, he abandoned his art galleries and abruptly stopped communicating with clients and lenders. He stopped responding to the legal process, assistant US Attorney Cecilia Vogel, arguing against granting bail, said during the hearing, noting various international legal claims against Philbrick.

Vogel said that following his arrest in Juneon the South Pacific island of Vanuatu, to where he fled in October as a slew of asset-seizure claims were filed against him,he made several post-arrest statements that indicated his intent to flee.

Vogel argued that Philbrick was under the impression that Vanuatu had no extradition agreement with the US or most other countries, so that it was difficult to apprehend him while he was there.

She called $25 million a conservative estimate of his overall fraud scheme and said that wire transfer records indicated that between 2016 and 2019, over $200 million flowed through accounts that Philbrick controlled.

Im not claiming all of it was fraudulent, but it gives you an idea of the volume of business he was doing, Vogel said, adding that it is possible he has assets abroad that allowed him to support himself while he was a fugitive in Vanuatu. She surmised that those same assets might be available to him if he were to flee again.

In a lengthy counterargument, Philbricks attorney, Peter Brill, argued that Philbrick flew very high and sank very low. He said that Philbricks current assets were in the realm of only tens of thousands of dollars, and that his entire business had collapsed and he had no money to pay his attorneys. He has been supported by his fiance and her family.

A now-deleted Instagram photo of Victoria Baker-Harber with Inigo Philbrick. Photo courtesy: Wikinetworth.com

Brill did not respond to Artnet Newss additional request for comment.

Brill said Philbrick went to Vanuatu in part at the suggestion ofBaker-Harber, who has family in Fiji.

The cliche of the South Pacific island where no one can reach you is certainly not great optics, Brill conceded. But he was never aware of a criminal investigation, and the way this arrest took place was designed so that he wasnt aware of one.

Brill told the court that Philbricks US passport, which he left in Vanuatu when he was abruptly seized and expelled, has been canceled, adding that, as an asthmatic, Philbrick is more vulnerable to potential COVID-19 infection in jail.

At times, Judge James L. Cott appeared to lean in Philbricks favor, noting that he had no criminal history nor any record of violence, and that he appeared to pose no safety risks to others.

He also noted that Philbrick usedhis own name and passport while traveling internationally, which he said weighed in his favor. But he ultimately decided in favor of the government.

The facility where Philbrick is reportedly being held, the Metropolitan Correctional Center in Lower Manhattan, has housed other notorious inmates, including convicted Ponzi-scheme fraudster Bernie Madoff and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, who was found dead in a jail cell there last summer.

Following reports last week that Philbrick was being held in a county jail in Oklahoma, Tuesdays bail hearingwhich lasted over one hourrevealed that Philbrick arrived in New York on July 14.

The hearing included mention of previous stops at an Immigration and Custom Enforcement facility in Nevada. Prior to that, Philbrick was held in a federal detention center in Honolulu, Hawaii, and in the US territory of Guam.

Judd Grossman, an attorney representing several of Philbricks former clients who allege that they lost millions of dollars as a result of the art dealers misrepresentations, told Artnet News: The court was correct in denying Philbricks bail application based on his significant flight risk now it is time that he remain in New York to face these serious criminal and civil charges.

Excerpt from:

Art Dealer Inigo Philbrick Will Be Kept In US Custody After His Fiances Familys Bahamas Real Estate Was Rejected as Bail Collateral - artnet News

By YOURI KEMP

Tribune Business Reporter

ykemp@tribunemedia.net

A Bahamas-based contractor yesterday argued that this nation should re-examine introducing an investor citizenship initiative to help counter COVID-19s negative impact.

Costa Berdanis, Tarcon Constructions president, told Tribune Business that such a scheme would expand the benefits of foreign direct investment (FDI) beyond the real estate sector that is the direct focus of the permanent residency programme.

I think citizenship by investment is one of the things we can do to get some revenue coming in here, he explained. The thing is it is not like we cant put a limit to the number of how many we can invite to do so, and we can screen who we want.

We have an attractive system here. We have a good banking system that a lot of Caribbean countries dont have, which is first world banking, and a lot of people are more attracted to come here.

Mr Berdanis continued: Right now we have a residency programme for $750,000 that is solely linked to real estate, so the benefit doesnt really trickle down to everybody.

If you had a citizenship programme to rebuild the country, a person would come in and make a donation. Out of that $750,000, lets say $300,000 went to rebuild schools and roads, and the other $450,000 went to helping combat the coronavirus, help the National Insurance Board and some of the national issues - all of the things that would benefit the majority of the people rather than the minority.

I think this is a viable thing, but I know the United States doesnt like us selling our citizenship. But, at the end of the day, we have to take care of ourselves here and it is a thing that people want and we can limit it.

So-called Investor Citizenship initiatives have been mulled and floated in the past, most recently by Sean McWeeney QC, a former attorney general and key advisor to ex-premier Perry Christie. The idea was ruled out, though, by both that administration and the current government, with ex-financial services minister, Brent Symonette, placing the focus on speeding up permanent residency applications.

Investor Citizenship would grant citizenship to a limited group of individuals, once they met certain criteria, including a high multi-million dollar investment threshold. Those qualifying would have to invest in Bahamas-based developments and companies that created local jobs, with the initiative targeted at a small group of billionaires and multi-millionaires with the resources to move the economy.

The programme would essentially be targeted at the worlds wealthiest individuals, meaning the likes of Joe Lewis and the Izmirlian families. The billionaires, both of whom reside at Lyford Cay, have ultimately invested billions in the domestic economy, and created thousands of local jobs, via Albany and Baha Mar respectively (notwithstanding subsequent events at the latter).

Investor citizenship programmes have been adopted by countries such as Grenada, Antigua and Barbuda, Malta, the Netherlands, the UK and Spain, either allowing direct citizenship by investment or offering routes to citizenship for wealthy investors.

Concerns have been raised, however, over the transparency and accountability surrounding such programmes, which have also drawn the attention of regulators and law enforcement agencies in nations such as the US on the grounds that citizenship is being bought.

However, Mr Berdanis added: I have a lawyer friend right now in Canada who has millions of dollars from persons bundled up that just want to get residency, and they dont want residency for criminal reasons.

Lets say that these people are right now in Hong Kong, and they may be worth up to $3m or more. They want to have a back-up plan if China further puts a clamp down on them. I know there are a few groups that are pushing the Government on this citizenship by investment initiative, as there are a few Canadian firms that are inquiring and I think a couple of law firms are.

Mr Berdanis added: From the immigration aspect, we can benefit from it greatly. Portugal is benefiting, and a friend of mine has built 16 high-rise hotels for people that are making investments. Once they get a group like Hyatt or the Marriott, they would have the management to give these hotel brands a return, and those folks dont even occupy those places as they just get their residency. If they need a place they can go to have an escape, they have it.

Mr Beranis ultimately said he doesnt see a downside to it here, adding that the Government can always experiment with the initiative. He added that The Bahamas dont have to go huge, but if you give out 1,000 citizenship by investment certificates you can spread it out among all of the lawyers so they can equally have the business.

We have so many undeveloped islands that we can do private residency on if you are concerned about these people living amongst us on New Providence. Diversification has always been a good thing. We have so many empty islands that we can experiment with but they just dont touch them.

The rest is here:

Bahamas urged to re-examine 'citizen investors' - Bahamas Tribune

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#NASSAU, The Bahamas July 15, 2020 Wife of the Prime Minister, Mrs. Patricia Minnis has thrown her support behind the launch of a sewing programme under the Over-the-Hill Community Development Partnership Initiative, aimed at economic empowerment of residents.

The programme, which provides free sewing classes, waslaunched on Monday, July 13, 2020 at the Urban Renewal Centerville centre, Deveaux Street. Also present were Minister of Social Servicesand Urban Development, the Hon. Frankie Campbell; Samita Ferguson, ExecutiveManager, Over-the-Hill Unit, Office of the Prime Minister; and Kemie Jones, ProjectManager, Over-the Hill Unit, Office of the Prime Minister.

Mrs. Minnis,in her official function, Office of the Spouse of the Prime Minister,underscored the importance of the programme and other such initiatives.

She announced that July 20-24, 2020 her office will hold foodprocessing classes for women and girls to empower them to make a living.

Mrs. Minnis also envisioned plans to duplicate theseinitiatives throughout the Family Islands.

So we are swapping, switching and looking at various thingsthat happen in this, Over-the-Hill community to carry to other communitiesespecially in the Family Islands. They would love to see the sewing machines aswell as the food processing classes going to all our Family Islands, she said.

The Over-the-Hill Community Development PartnershipInitiative donated the 10 sewing machines to two Urban Renewal Centres Centreville and Bain & Grants Town as part of the launch of a suite oftechnical and vocational programmes in the inner city. These programmes are designed to attractresidents who are unemployed or with low incomes to entrepreneurship andapprenticeship. Residents are encouragedto contact Urban Renewal Centres to apply.

Another objective of the sewing programme is to providemale/female residents with opportunities to explore other entrepreneurial pathsto earn a primary or second stream of income and thus reduce poverty inequalitylevels and potentially reduce crime.

The key stakeholders are the Over-the-Hill Unit in theOffice of the Prime Minister, Urban Renewal, Department of Inland Revenue andthe Small Business Development Centre.

The sewing programme is part of components of theOver-The-Hill Community Development Partnership Initiative launched by thePrime Minister in May 2018.

The Initiative is built around six key pillarsdesigned to fully restore the Over-the-Hill community communities. Thepillars are:

Social Empowerment

Economic Empowerment

Rejuvenation

Smart Technology

Green and SustainableTechnology

Programmes for the Youth and the Elderly

BIS Press Release by Lindsay Thompson

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Wife of The Bahamas Prime Minister Supports Sewing Classes in Over-the-Hill Community - Magnetic Media

NASSAU, BAHAMAS Some postpartum mothers have yet to hold their newborns in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Princess Margaret Hospital as COVID-19 restrictions at healthcare facilities continue.

A local human rights group is calling on the Public Hospitals Authority (PHA) to put forward a clear policy on care for parents and newborns that prioritizes their health and wellbeing and safeguards against undue trauma.

Since the first COVID-19 case was confirmed in The Bahamas, hospital operations have changed in the interest of public health, said Equality Bahamas, in a statement.

It is, however, inconceivable that there is no protocol in place for mothers to care for or visit their babies in the NICU. At present, there are mothers who have never held their babies (now weeks old) and are not permitted to see them in the NICU.

They have not been given information regarding possible changes to this policy.

The organization stressed the importance of the interaction with babies and parents in the early days of their development including skin-to-skin contact which can help keep babies warm, regulate their breathing and heartbeat; but also allow mothers to produce more breastmilk, reduce stress, and create a bond.

It noted that NICUs around the world have implemented strict COVID-19 policies which include testing for all staff and a one-vistor-at-a-time rule.

Pointing to procedures at the Cleveland Clinic Childrens, Equality Bahamas noted that COVID-19 negative parents, one at a time, are permitted to visit their babies.

The NICU is also equipped with cameras allowing parents to see their babies at all times and uses video conference technology to involve parents in doctors rounds.

Additionally, mothers with COVID-19 can share a room with their babies as long as they are six feet apart with a curtain between them.

The current policy at Princess Margaret Hospital is unusual, cruel, and needs to be revised, the statement continued.

Mothers have made it clear that they are grateful to hospital staff, especially doctors and nurses, for their care. They know the policy is coming from PHA. They need to meet and care for their babies. They deserve to know what is happening, why and, at the very least, be told when they will be able to see their babies who, at this time, need extra care.

Equality Bahamas demanded that the PHAexplain the rationale of the excessive restrictions and provide a timeline or set of conditions upon which the circumstances will change.

COVID-19 has already complicated pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting, and it is the responsibility of the PHA to ensure that mothers and newborns are not caused further harm, the group added.

Women are forced to give birth or endure surgery without the support of a loved one. Having a baby in need of specialized medical attention in NICU is an unexpected development.

Denial of the right to see their babies is an act of undeniable cruelty that affects both parents and babies.

We call on PHA to implement protocol that allows parents to visit their babies

Equality Bahamas calls on PHA to acknowledge the harm it has caused, extend an apology, offer mental health support to mothers who have endured this traumatic experience, and work expediently to revise protocol.

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Mothers not allowed to see newborns in NICU - EyeWitness News

The Ministry of Health informed through their website thattravelers must complete a Bahamas Health Visa application and present a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test with a sample taken within ten (10) days of arrival.

According to the government and effective immediately, all travelers will be required to complete an electronic Bahamas Health Visa application before departure from the place of embarkation. Travelers are required to upload a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test and provide contact information.

The Government of TheBahamaswill accept the negative COVID-19 RT-PCR (swab) test if the sample was taken within (10) ten days of arrival. Tests over ten (10) days old will not be accepted.

An automated response will be provided once the application is completed. The only persons approved to travel are those who have received a green color-coded response, as proof of approval. This confirmation must be presented upon arrival in TheBahamas. The Health Visa application process will take twenty-four to forty-eight (24-48) hours and should be completed with adequate lead time.

Failure to comply with the stated requirements will result in denied entry. It is recommended that all travelers interested in visiting TheBahamasreview requirements applicable to each member of their traveling partybefore booking a trip.

For more information, or to view theTourism Readiness and Recovery Plan, please visit here. You may also contact the Ministry of Tourism COVID-19 travel hotline at (242) 502-0829 Monday to Friday,8 AM6 PM, or email athealthvisa@bahamas.com.

Read more here:

Vacation In Bahamas: Here Is The Ministry Of Health Testing Protocol For Incoming Visitors - Latin Times

The Bahamas officially reopened to the public with a handful of new coronavirus guidelines.

When you pack your sunscreen and bathing suit, make sure you have your mask ready as well.

Phase 2 allows for international travel. Earlier this month, the country allowed international boaters, yachters and private aviation as part of Phase 1.

Bring your COVID-19 test: If you plan on visiting the Bahamas, you must present a negative COVID-19 swab test upon arrival. The results must be no more than seven days old.

Youll need a health visa: Travelers will be required to complete an electronic health visa prior to departure and present proof of confirmation at their destination.

Temperature checks: At airports and seaports, all visitors will undergo temperature checks conducted by health care personnel. Any travelers who show COVID-19 symptoms will be transferred to a separate area for further testing and evaluation.

Masks are required: Visitors will be required to wear face masks in any situation where it is necessary to enforce physical distancing guidelines. In addition to airports and sea terminals, travelers must wear masks in taxis, while checking in at hotels, standing in line at attractions and before being seated at restaurants. Failure to comply with the countrys mask guidelines could result in a $200 fine or one month imprisonment.

Flights resume: JetBlue has resumed daily service between Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and Nassau, while American Airlines has resumed flights twice a day between Miami and Nassau.

Curfew in effect: The Bahamas will continue its mandatory curfew from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., so travelers must return to their housing accommodations during that time. Visitors will be allowed to move freely throughout their hotel and resort properties during curfew.

What about Atlantis: One of the most popular hotels, Atlantis has resumed operations. While the casino slot machines will be open 24/7, table games and sports betting will have revised hours.

Later phases: Beginning Monday, the Bahamas will enter Phase 3 of its reopening, which allows for attractions, excursions and tours to resume. Phase 4, which begins July 27, will allow vendors and jet ski operators to reopen.

Original post:

What to know before heading to the Bahamas - Boston Herald

Standards Inspector of Security Forces. Its an impressive title and to the best of my knowledge had not been bestowed on anyone before July 1 when it was handed with all the layers it entails to the former Commander of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, Tellis A Bethel.

Bethel is now responsible for ensuring the governments policies and mandates are carried out by every agency charged with enforcing the laws of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. Thats Police, Defence Force, Department of Corrections, and in some cases, Bahamas Customs and Immigration more than 6,000 men and women, strong, self-possessed and probably not a shy bone among them.

Its a helluva task and if anyone can do it, Tellis Bethel can, but he will need strong support at every level, from the ministries and from the agencies. His years of diplomacy as Deputy Commander, then Commander of the Defence Force, along with interagency and multilateral coordination with officers from US and regional agencies in operations ranging from drug and human smuggling interdiction to hurricane disaster relief will be critical tools. If I had to guess, I would say that is part of what the Minister of National Security was referring to when he said Bethels skill set would serve him well in the new post.

But its a strange mixture, this new post, becoming part of an executive team yet, because of constitutional boundaries, unable to make final executive calls. As Inspector of Security Forces he has independent authority to assess and recommend yet his recommendations go straight to the Minister which, by its very nature, is a political post.

In laymans terms, Bethel will be CAAO (Chief administrative assessment officer), CCEO (Chief compliance and efficiency officer), but not CBSHO (Chief buck stops here officer). That job falls to the Minister. Some will see Bethels post, correctly or not, as chief in charge of defence and law enforcement standards and that is one tough hat to wear.

So its about time that people got to know exactly the stuff Tellis Bethel is made of. In a few words, its rock-solid strength, integrity and an unshakable faith. This is the man who participated in and later directed the arrests of Columbian, US, Caribbean and Bahamian drug smugglers with thousands of pounds of narcotics and the confiscation of weapons and ammunition during the peak drug years of the 1980s when doing so meant pitting your life against those who had nothing to lose. The is the man who worked to helped apprehend or direct arrests of thousands of undocumented migrants and numerous poachers, gaining praise from Bahamian fishermen for his unprecedented-in-scale actions.

This is the same Tellis Bethel who was Operations Coordination Officer during Operation Blue Lightning in 1985, a joint US-Bahamas operation that netted cocaine and marijuana with a street value of more than $100m, one of the largest seizures in the world.

Hes also the man who, in his second stint with the RBDF after resigning and taking a five-year break from 1991-1996 to explore the business world in light manufacturing, was graduated to acting and then commodore with oversight of RBDF disaster relief operations through Hurricanes Joaquin, Matthew, Irma, Maria (in Dominica) and Dorian.

Ask him and hed probably say he was most proud of accelerating the burgeoning Sandy Bottom Project, vastly expanding the ability of the Defence Force to protect 2,200 miles of coastline across 100,000 miles of open ocean by staging vessels and resources in Ragged Island and Inagua rather than dispatching ships and responding to suspicious activity from a single base at Coral Harbour.

He might also confess a bit of pride in overseeing the rescue of more than 540 people.

All of that information is available in public records as is the truth about the Byron Ferguson downed aircraft investigation, including the senior police officers mistaken report that the Defence Force called off the search shortly after 11 that night.

Tellis is a friend, and I consider that an honour. In fact, he and his wife, Teri, are among the handful of people my family and I hold closest to our hearts. We see the human side of an extraordinary man, author, historian, leader. I wonder what I could tell you about him that would help to paint the full picture.

I could tell you about his ear-to-ear grin as we made our way up a rocky, pitted road to see the famed Lighthouse Point in Eleuthera, Tellis jumping out of the car every few minutes to pick up heavy rocks with the lightness and surefootedness of an athlete to fill holes so my husband could continue maneuvering the small vehicle. I could tell you about his boyhood-like fascination with the sight and history of the lighthouse when we finally climbed to the top. I could tell you about his love for Teri, his pride in their two sons, or the evenings when plans had to be cancelled because of a Defence Force activity or the times we spoke with his wife after he directed an operation that kept him awake from one day to the next. Teri says in the years he was Commodore, he rarely slept more than a few hours a night, never off duty, but never once complaining.

I could tell you about his modest upbringing and his remarkable academic achievements. With Long Island and Eleuthera family roots, Bethel grew up in Grants Town, graduated from St Johns. His first job was equivalent of bellman aboard one of the earliest cruise ships, the S/S Emerald Seas and he was proud to wear that bellmens cap and be on the sea. He also worked for Navios Maritime Holdings. He joined the Defence Force in 1981 and served nearly 25 years with that break in between. At Britannia Royal Naval College, Devon, England, he received the Colleges Best International Midshipman Award. He holds a Master of Arts degree in Leading, Innovation and Change (MALIC) from York St John University in York, England, which required residency in Switzerland.

Bethel also graduated with distinction from the United States Naval War Colleges Naval Staff College in Rhode Island. He is a Fellow of the Center for Hemispheric Defense Studies at the University of National Defense in Washington and a Fellow of the Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies in Hawaii. He has participated in numerous civil defense management courses at institutions in the United States, United Kingdom, China, Australia and the Caribbean.

As a friend, and as a loyal friend to The Bahamas, do well, Tellis Bethel. Now, we just have to get on with naming the most beautiful waters in the world The Lucayan Sea as you proposed.

See original here:

DIANE PHILLIPS: Welcome back, Tellis - now you have the toughest job of your life - Bahamas Tribune

NASSAU, BAHAMAS Schools are expected to reopen for students on September 21, according to a memo from the Department of Education to its staff.

However, education officials are still unsure whether students will have to present themselves at the schools campus.

The memo, dated July 16, outlines agreed dates for students, teachers, school administrators and new teachers for the upcoming academic year.

Such decisions will be made in accordance with the prevailing public health conditions on each island, the memo said.

Teachers are expected to return to schools for Mandatory Professional Development Activities (PDAs) on September 7.

Teachers must present themselves to their assigned schools to engage in the virtual PDAs, the department advised.

Any teacher wishing to access these sessions away from the school campus must seek the approval of their principal by way of a written request.

New teachers will have virtual sessions for orientation, which will take place of September 3 and 4.

Additionally, all school administrators will participate in conclave sessions on Auguster 31 and September 1.

The government announced the closure of schools on March 15, after the first confirmed case of COVID-19 in the country.

National Exams including BJCs and BGCSEs began on July 13, however there have been several reports of challenges.

To date, health officials have confirmed 129 cases of coronavirus in The Bahamas.

There have been 94 cases in New Providence, 21 in Grand Bahama, 13 on Bimini and one on Cat Cay.

View original post here:

Schools to reopen on September 21 - EyeWitness News

Five new cases of COVID-19 were confirmed on Thursday by the Ministry of Health.

The latest cases are:

A 45-year-old man of Grand Bahama with no history of travel.

A 43-year-old man of Grand Bahama with no history of travel.

An 84-year-old woman of Grand Bahama with no history oftravel.

A 73-year-old man of New Providence with a history of travel.

A 27-year-old woman of New Providence with a history oftravel.

All five are in isolation at home.

The total number of confirmed cases is now 124, with 20 of those active.

Health officials are reminding the public to practice the following measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19:

Wear a face mask when you leave home;

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, and if soap and waterare not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 70% alcohol;

Cover your cough or sneeze in your inner elbow or with a tissue; and

Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as phones, remotes controls, counters,doorknobs, and keyboards.

Read this article:

Five new cases of COVID-19 - Bahamas Tribune

By NEIL HARTNELL

Tribune Business Editor

nhartnell@tribunemedia.net

Opponents of a controversial Harbour Island marina project are hoping to force its ex-project manager to "shed light" on whether its permits are non-compliant with government approvals processes.

Br-Island Responsible Development Association (BIRD), in legal papers obtained by Tribune Business, is seeking a US federal court order to compel Bernard Ross, who has a history of convictions and run-ins with US law enforcement, to give up whatever inside knowledge he holds on 4M Harbour Island and its principal, Michael Wiener.

BIRD's move, made on Wednesday, comes just two weeks after it launched a second Judicial Review challenge to 4M's construction and other permits in the Bahamian Supreme Court. Its application to the south Florida federal court to force Mr Ross to provide testimony and evidence is thus an attempt to bolster legal manoeverings aimed at thwarting the developer's ambitions.

Alleging that Mr Ross should possess "first-hand knowledge and information" relating to 4M's efforts to build a "steel metal 'artificial island'" and dock, as part of its Briland Residences and Marina project, BIRD and its members are alleging that the developer has violated Justice Diane Stewart's October 17, 2019, order that all permits be obtained in compliance with the law and established procedures.

"At issue now is whether 4M has violated this 2019 court order by continuing construction on the marina project without obtaining a permit 'made in compliance with the law'," Theresa Mersky, BIRD's vice-president, secretary and treasurer, alleged in a July 15, 2020, affidavit.

"4M began construction again following the issuance of a new building permit on April 21, 2020, by the Harbour Island District Council (HIDC). However, BIRD contends that this second permit is also legally invalid because it also was not made in compliance with applicable law."

She added: "The April 2020 building permit was issued following a written decision of the HIDC dated January 13, 2020, which stated, in pertinent part, that it was granting approval for the marina project subject to certain conditions, including that the project meet the requirements of the Bahamas Environment, Science and Technology Commission (BEST), and 'other relevant government agencies'."

"BIRD contends that because these conditions have not been met, the April 2020 building permit is invalid and, along with another party, has initiated a second judicial proceeding in The Bahamas seeking to have it quashed."

That second party is Ithalia Johnson-Elson, who BIRD said lives at New Juicy Hill on Harbour Island, "and has been involved in numerous challenges against irresponsible development" both on her own and via the Save Harbour Island Association.

Meanwhile, outlining the latest Judicial Review challenge to 4M's development, Ms Mersky added: "More specifically, in this new proceeding, BIRD contends that the requirements of the following Bahamian government agencies have not been complied with - the Harbour Island District Council; the BEST Commission; and the National Economic Council of The Bahamas.

"The Harbour Island District Council is the local governmental entity on Harbour Island. Under applicable laws, the Harbour Island District Council is required to engage in public consultation before making any decision. BIRD contends that this requirement was not met for a number of reasons.

"As a US company, 4M was required by Bahamian law to obtain the approval of the NEC for its marina project. Permission was granted by the NEC subject to the approval of an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) by the BEST Commission, and subject to certain size limitations, which BIRD contends 4M has exceeded."

Ms Mersky said BIRD was especially hopeful that Mr Ross will provide incriminating information on "the negotiations" between Mr Wiener's 4M and the Harbour Island District Council, which led to the grant of the April 2020 building permit.

"Any relevant evidence obtained from Mr Ross regarding impropriety in the permitting process will be used by BIRD to support its position in the judicial proceeding that is pending in The Bahamas. I have been informed by BIRD's Bahamian counsel that such evidence would be admissible with the leave and directions of the presiding Bahamian judge under applicable Bahamian law," Ms Mersky added.

No evidence of "impropriety" has been produced to-date, and it is unclear whether Mr Ross will be able to provide anything useful in relation to the permit granted by the Harbour Island District Council given that he and Mr Wiener parted ways in June 2019 - some 10 months before the approval in question was obtained.

All parties - Mr Wiener and BIRD, whose members are said to be drawn from Harbour Island residents - previously agreed that the site plan approval initially granted to 4M should be quashed, having been wrongly granted by the Government's Town Planning Committee instead of the Harbour Island District Council. This led to Justice Stewart's original order.

Mr Wiener and 4M Harbour Island did not respond to Tribune Business requests for comment before press deadline last night despite a spokesperson being contacted and informed about the nature of this newspaper's inquiries.

But the BIRD move, and second Judicial Review action, merely represent the latest legal headache for Mr Wiener, a California-based lawyer, in his efforts to progress his multi-million dollar investment. For, as reported by this newspaper, he is also embroiled in a legal battle with Mr Ross in the central California courts over his former project manager's claim that he breached their settlement agreement.

The pair agreed a $2.3m deal, with Mr Wiener paying Mr Ross and his wife, Holly, the first $1.319m installment, after their differences over the Harbour Island development's management became impossible to reconcile.

However, the 4M principal halted payment of the remaining $1m on the basis that his former project manager had created more issues and damages than first realised. Mr Ross thus headed to the central California court in a bid to force Mr Wiener to honour the settlement and pay the balance.

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Opponents bid to 'shed light' on Briland project - Bahamas Tribune

By RASHAD ROLLE

Tribune Senior Reporter

rrolle@tribunemedia.net

THE Bahamas recorded five new COVID-19 cases yesterday as the Office of the Prime Minister announced that Dr Merceline Dahl-Regis, the face of the governments COVID-19 response, is leaving her post next week.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis, who has been acting Minister of Health since Dr Duane Sands resigned in May, will announce the new minister of health on Sunday when he gives a national address, The Tribune understands.

The OPM said in a statement yesterday: Dr Dahl-Regis was appointed in March and agreed to serve until the end of June. She also agreed to extend her service, which will end shortly.

Dr Dahl-Regis will continue to offer strategic advice to the government and the prime minister but will be stepping aside from day-to-day operations, the statement noted. Dr Dahl-Regis has put in place strategies, policies and procedures as it relates to managing COVID-19 and is confident in the team that will be led by Chief Medical Officer Dr Pearl McMillan.

The prime minister thanks Dr Dahl-Regis for her national service and will have more to say in a national address on Sunday.

Yesterdays five new COVID-19 cases marks the most number of new cases the country has recorded since May 5. The record for most new cases in a day, six, was recorded on April 1.

There have been 20 new cases in eight days. The Tribune understands measures to prevent spread of COVID-19 in Grand Bahama are expected to be announced as early as today.

The new cases include an 84-year-old Grand Bahama woman, a 45-year-old man and a 43-year-old Grand Bahama man, all without a history of travel; they also include a 73-year-old New Providence man and a 27-year-old New Providence woman, both with a history of travel.

The country has averaged 10 completed RT-PCR tests in the last ten days.

On Tuesday a Bahamasair flight attendant tested positive. She worked flights on July 5 and July 6 that went into Fort Lauderdale.

Florida has emerged as the new epicentre of the coronavirus, recording more than 10,000 new cases yesterday and a record 15,000-plus cases on Sunday.

Asked if officials are considering recommending that travel to and from Florida be banned, Dr Dahl-Regis suggested on Tuesday that this is not being considered. She said officials are instead using a risk stratification system to determine which tourists can enter the country.

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5 MORE CASES: Another two travel infected added to week's rising tally - Bahamas Tribune

Christine van de Linde, Immediate Past President of Rotary Club of Grand Bahama (far right) and other Rotarians busy packing food parcels for distribution to needy families in Freeport.

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

ROTARIANS on Grand Bahama were out again on the weekend packing food parcels for distribution to needy families in the Freeport area.

Rotary District 6990 Assistant Governor Billy Jane Ferguson said their food distribution initiative has been widespread in Grand Bahama and is grateful to their sponsors and partners who have assisted them in their efforts.

Ms Ferguson said that Saturdays distribution came as a result of sponsors from Buckeye Bahamas and Paint Fair.

Today, we wanted to make sure that we continue with our distribution, she said. Last week we started in the East distributing gas and food items, and today we want to take care of those in the Freeport area who are in need of food items.

We know that COVID really shut down the country and persons are not working and we wanted to make sure we do our best to get something in their hands, to give them a little hope and let them know that the Rotary Clubs of GB, with our sponsors, are here to help.

According to Mr Ferguson, Rotary has made a significant impact in Grand Bahama during the two recent crises Hurricane Dorian and now COVID-19.

She noted that they have helped many residents with building materials and supplies, as well as home repairs.

I got goosebumps thinking of how we helped put an elderly woman back in her home. This lady was so overwhelmed with emotions she could not stop crying and could not speak; she was happy that somebody thought of her to rebuild her home from scratch, Mr Ferguson said.

It is amazing as the feedback has been positive and persons are very thankful and grateful for Rotary coming to assist.

Christine van der Linde, Immediate Past President of the Rotary Club of Grand Bahama, said that being of service to others is what being a Rotarian is all about.

This is where I get my adrenaline pumping, and we feel great, and knowing it is going to someone who really needs it is a reward in itself. I know God is looking down and smiling every time.

Ms van der Linde said that service is something that Rotarians are passionate about. She also noted that Rotarians are very generous.

She urged people to give to those in need, especially during these difficult times. Be neighbourly, dont be mean; you dont have to be a Rotarian to give. You have to live every day like Jesus did, giving, she said.

Ms van de Linde commended the two young children who also came out to help pack food parcels for needy families.

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Rotarians 'give a little hope' with food distribution in Freeport - Bahamas Tribune

By NEIL HARTNELL

Tribune Business Editor

nhartnell@tribunemedia.net

A Harbour Island hotelier yesterday revealed that while his resort may ironically enjoy a better July than last year it will not make up for the $2m lost during the COVID-19 lockdown,

Benjamin Simmons, proprietor of The Other Side and Ocean View properties, told Tribune Business he was presently at 100 percent occupancy and had averaged around 70 percent since The Bahamas opened its borders to international travellers on July 1.

While had had been able to bring back all 45 full-time staff, Mr Simmons said he has been unable to recall 15-20 part-time staff because COVID-19 protocols have limited his restaurant to catering to just in-house guests to maintain social distancing.

He added that his properties had suffered around four cancellations as a result of being unable to obtain the negative PCR swab test required to enter The Bahamas in time to travel, especially during the period when the government narrowed the testing window to seven days, with most visitors booking within four days of their planned arrival in Harbour Island.

With short-term bookings the current norm for himself and many hoteliers, Mr Simmons said medium and long-term planning was virtually impossible. With August currently appearing flat, he added that he would do what I can to stay open and keep people employed, with the provision of pay cheques rather than the accumulation of profit the main objective.

We are at 100 percent occupancy right now, Mr Simmons told Tribune Business. By and large were very thankful to have business and get our staff employed. Were going to stay open as long as we can to keep them employed.

Its hard to predict whats going to happen. People are booking, but theyre booking four days out because they have to have the negative COVID-19 PCR test. Weve averaged 70 percent occupancies since the reopening on July 1.

This July might even be better than last year, ironically enough, but thats no substitute for March, April and May unfortunately. We probably lost around $2m worth of business between the events and the hotels.

Mr Simmons said he was able to provide staff with a stipend, and keep them occupied at the pandemics height, by operating a food bank over that ten-week period. While full-time staff had returned to work, he added that it was unfortunately not so much the case for part-time workers.

Most of these, he explained, worked in his restaurants which are operating at lower capacity due to the COVID-19 restrictions on social distancing. As for guest compliance with The Bahamas COVID-19 testing requirements, Mr Simmons added: There was a lot of confusion when it went down to seven days and then back to ten days.

We had about four cancellations in that period when people were not able to get the test in time. Thats probably been the only challenge. Everyone praised the government for the decisions theyve made in halting the virus spread so far, and making the call for negative COVID-19 tests to enter.

Most people are happy to comply with that requirement and whatever needs to be done to keep Bahamians safe and visitors safe, and keep on trucking. August is flat but, again, everyone is booking four days out. We saw it a week ago. We didnt think wed be full, and come Tuesday we were full for the weekend, he continued.

Short-term bookings appear to be the way its going. Its week by week. Well try to stay open. Right now, if we cant open in August well go back to being closed, but were hoping to keep on going. Well try to attract domestic tourism and get folks down from Nassau and do what we can to keep people employed.

Mr Simmons added that he and his staff feel grateful for the opportunity to be back at work, and said: Its not about making a profit right now. I dont like people being put out of work by this pandemic. Lets give them a pay cheque without jeopardising the business.

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'Better July than 2019' won't cover $2m COVID loss - Bahamas Tribune

PLP Chairman Fred Mitchell.

By RASHAD ROLLE

Tribune Senior Reporter

rrolle@tribunemedia.net

THE Progressive Liberal Party blamed Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis yesterday after three tourists accused of violating his COVID-19 emergency orders were discharged.

Ikrame Kanane, 25, Rana Kenawy, and Mariam Mohamed Hassen, 18, made headlines when photos showing them scaling a locked fence at Cabbage Beach on Paradise Island last Friday spread on social media. Yesterday in court they claimed an officer gave them permission to go on a local beach on Independence Day.

People across social media were shocked at the discharge. Some said Bahamians would not have been let off so easily. PLP chairman Fred Mitchell said in a statement: Needless to say, this trial will attract international attention. Tourists who visited the Bahamas because of its advertised sun, sand and sea tourism product were hauled before the courts for enjoying sun, sand and sea all because of a bad decision by a singular competent authority. This incident will do more harm than good to the countrys tourism product and brand, not to mention our international reputation.

The PLP again calls on the competent authority to allow expert medical and scientific evidence to drive all of his decisions if he is to expect continued cooperation from an increasingly exasperated and frustrated public.

Mr Mitchell said the discharge of tourists was an embarrassment for the government and that the matter was a waste of time and resources for police and the courts.

So nonsensical are some of these emergency orders by the so-called competent authority that the government is challenged and hard pressed to get the law enforcement officers to enforce some of them or to understand what they are, he said. We note the decision of the police to place handcuffs on the persons charged. We have made the point before that the use of these and other restraints when there appears to be no violence or record of flight seems over the top and may be unconstitutional. In any event it is a terrible image for tourism in the Bahamas. The tourism ministry must be having a fit.

Yesterday, Free National Movement Chairman Carl Culmer hit out at the PLP for trying to gain political points from a judges decision.

Its disappointing to see the PLP would try to gain political points on a magistrate making a decision, Mr Culmer told this newspaper. The governments job is to be the legislator. Unlike the PLP, the government cant control the courts. We allow the courts to work without interference. If the PLP was looking around different countries, they would see that many countries are closing their beaches so we cant bury our heads in the sand and work in a vacuum and dont expect consequences. All of the prime ministers decisions are in the best interest of the Bahamian people.

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'This incident will do more harm than good to the country' - Bahamas Tribune

NASSAU, BAHAMAS While he believes country will survive the COVID-19 pandemic bruised and battered, BahamasChamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation (BCCEC) chief executive Jeffrey Beckles yesterday said there will be business casualties.

We will survive this bruised and battered but there will be casualties, Beckles said.

The forecast is for a very rough time in the medium term and its not unique to The Bahamas. This is a global issue. Unemployment rates are expected to continue to climb but at the same time we are working with stakeholders to mitigate the extent to which unemployment rises.

He said: Bahamians however must be prepared to make adjustments. You may have to find yourselves working in a different environment than you were in January or February. Some may have to work two jobs thats a reality. There are adjustments on both sides.

Beckles acknowledged that there is no quick fix and urged citizens to continue to adhere to government mandated protocols. We must adopt a disposition of personal responsibility to ensure that we keep ourselves and our families safe.

He noted that businesses in the tourism industry have been hardest hit due to the pandemic.

As with every pandemic there will be casualties, he said.

We would be fooling ourselves if we think otherwise. There will be casualties in business. Our hope is to do everything in our capacity to help businesses stay in business.

Beckles urged Bahamians who dont have to travel to resist the urge, particularly to COVID-19 hot spots such as Florida.

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Beckles: Country will survive, but there will be 'business casualties' - EyeWitness News

NASSAU, BAHAMAS Health officials have confirmed five new cases of coronavirus in New Providence, bringing the total number of cases to 129.

Two of the new cases are Inagua residents with a history of travel; however, officials confirmed those residents were tested in New Providence and have not returned to the island.

According to the statement: Case #125 is a 37-year-old year old man of Inagua with a history of travel. This case is in isolation at home.

Case #126 is a 64-year-old year old man of Inagua with a history of travel. This case is in isolation at home.

Case #127 is a 29-year-old woman of New Providence. This case too is in isolation at home. Travel details are pending.

Case #128 is a 34-year-old woman of New Providence. This case is also in isolation at home. Travel details too are pending.

Case #129 is a 50-year-old female of New Providence. This case remains in isolation at home. Travel details are also pending.

As of today, there have been 94 cases in New Providence, 21 in Grand Bahama, 13 on Bimini and one on Cat Cay.

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Five new cases of COVID-19 in New Providence - EyeWitness News

According to Netweather, the next few days will be cloudy at times, with high pressure lingering towards the south.Weather fronts from the Atlantic will bring more cloud, especially across the north and west as southern areas remain most dry, before sizzling temperatures arrive later this week.

The weekend will offer some hope to Britons wishing to take a short holiday thanks to a heatwave.

The Met Office prediction for Friday onwards reads: More unsettled conditions with spells of rain and strong winds are likely to affect the north and northwest at times.

There is chance that these wetter interludes could spread more widely and affect much of the UK.

Temperatures are likely to be mostly around normal, although it may become warm for a time in the south and perhaps very warm in the southeast.

Towards the end of the period, more settled conditions are likely to develop, across many parts.

Spells of wetter and windier weather are possible across northern and western areas at times.

Nick Finnis at NetWeather said today is likely to see a fair amount of cloud again, with a few light showers around, more general rain moving in across Scotland and N. Ireland in theevening.

Cooler across the south compared to Monday.

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Temperatures ranging between 15-16C in the north to 17-19C in the south.

He added the sun will come out later in the week.

Mr Finnis said: Some uncertainty over detail from mid-week, with weather models differing a bit between them with detail.

But it looks like Wednesday may be another generally cloudy day, with showery rain spreading southeast across more western areas, drier towards the east, perhaps with some brightness towards eastern coasts.

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Cloudy again on Thursday and Friday, with a few light showers or patchy drizzle, but some brightness possible east of high ground and across the south and east of England.

Feeling humid though and warm where the sun does come out in the south and east.

Oli Claydon, of the Meteorological Office, said: As the week goes on, temperatures are going to rise but there will be quite a lot of cloud around so there are not going to be crystal-clear conditions everywhere.

By Wednesday, we could see temperatures climbing as high as 75-77F (24-25C) in the South-East, rising to 81-84F (27-29C) by Friday and Saturday.

The sunniest weather and highest temperatures are likely to be south-east of a line stretching from The Wash to Southampton.

But even as far north as Newcastle upon Tyne it could reach 72-73F (22-23C), and there could be highs of 73-75F (23-24C) in Plymouth.

Met Office data for the month so far suggests July is on course to be the coolest since 1988.

Precipitation is also close to double the normal so far, at 30mm in England and Wales, Met Office figures revealed.

The prediction comes after June was one of the wettest for 89 years - wetter than all but eight Junes since 1931.

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UK heatwave map: Scorching Atlantic plume to bake Britain hotter than Bahamas - Express.co.uk

NASSAU, Bahamas The government of The Bahamas has unveiled a monument that will serve as a memorial to the lives lost during Hurricane Dorian in September 2019.

Speaking at the unveiling ceremony earlier this week, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Peter Turnquest said the pain caused by the loss of lives during Hurricane Dorian remains personal for him.

Many who died were my friends, said Turnquest.

Some who are still missing, I know personally. Ive visited and shared with those persons, in homes now shattered and destroyed. Monuments like this are erected to help ensure that we never forget what happened September 1st, 2019.

The monument is located at the Jack Hayward Bridge, which leads to East Grand Bahama, to serve as a memorial to the lives lost in East Grand Bahama.

On behalf of the government, I commend the Grand Bahama Port Authority and its partners for this kind gesture, said Turnquest.

This occasion pays tribute to those who died as a result of Hurricane Dorian. It reminds us not only of the loss, but also of the tremendous effort and courage the surviving families and friends have had to bear, as they carry on and rebuild their lives and properties.

We want them to know that they have not been forgotten. Also, their strength is symbolized by this monument. This monument will highlight our resilience and determined drive to carry on for those who did not make it.

Deputy Prime Minister noted that since the passing of the historic hurricane, the Government of the Bahamas has taken measures and steps and learned lessons from the experience to strengthen institutions in preparation for future storms, which the country must assume will come.

He noted that there has been the legislation of mandatory evacuations, hardening of the islands sea defenses with the completion of the Smiths Point Seawall and the Fishing Hole Causeway, with more such investments to come in the future in West and East Grand Bahama.

He added that building codes that help to protect people and property during storms are being drafted; NEMA has been strengthened in its leadership and management of disaster preparation and response; the Disaster Reconstruction Authority has been formed and is presently assisting Bahamians with rebuilding efforts.

Shelters that have been damaged during Hurricane Dorian are being repaired and new ones identified, said Minister Turnquest. The Rand Memorial Hospital is being completed renovated and renewed to almost a new facility, with expanded bed capacity, in preparation for a new facility that will eventually be built as things return to normal.

The government understands that there is no quick fix to do it right, but we understand the urgency.

The unveiling of this monument cements the fact that our recovery demands a unified approach. We are in this together and we will get through this together.

The Deputy Prime Minister urged the Grand Bahama Port Authority and its partners to redouble their efforts in the cleanup of Grand Bahama, noting that there are still a number of areas that remain filled with debris, which is hampering the rebuilding efforts. He said that the completion of the cleanup project will go a long way towards the recovery of the island of Grand Bahama.

He also pointed to the urgent need for a new airport in Grand Bahama. He noted that the temporary facility is adequate, but not ideal.

He added that the monument will not just represent the lives lost during Hurricane Dorian, but will also serve as a tribute to all of the frontline workers, First Responders and even private citizens who became heroes, having used jet skis, boats and other means to save the lives of many Grand Bahamians during Dorian.

This Memorial is for you too, as we celebrate and remember your courageous acts of kindness. Yet, it is another forceful reminder that we are indeed a village and together we cannot and must not fear.

While this Memorial is located here in Grand Bahama, let me say to the people in Abaco that it is difficult and near impossible not to link Abaco to this moment. The Grand Bahama and Abaco ties, particularly in East Grand Bahama are strong.

CMC

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Monument to Victims of Hurricane Dorian Unveiled in Grand Bahama - caribbeannationalweekly.com