News
Griner and Bout freed in US-Russia swap; WNBA star for a Convicted Arms Dealer
By Dana Malcolm
Staff Writer
#USA, December 9, 2022 – After 294 days in Russian jail following her arrest and conviction over a canister of medically prescribed cannabis oil, Brittney Yvette Griner has been freed and has already left Russia and headed home.
Russians have agreed to the long-proposed swap for convicted Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout; it brings 32-year-old Griner home.
At a press briefing around 8:40am on Thursday joined by Kamala Harris, US Vice President and Cherelle Griner, wife of Brittney, Joe Biden, the President of the United States of America updated the country revealing that Britney had landed in the United Arab Emirates from Russia already and was headed to the US.
“It’s a good morning,” he said. “ Moments ago in the oval office standing with her wife Cherelle. I spoke to Brittney Griner, she is safe, she’s on a plane, she’s on her way home”
Cherelle said despite her family now being whole she, along with “BG” as she affectionately referred to her wife, would be remaining committed to the work of getting every American home.
While the swap was supposed to be for two Americans, Griner and Paul Whelan, a former marine who has been in Russian prison since 2018, President Biden announced that “for completely illegitimate reasons”, Whelan’s case was being treated differently by Russia. 
It has been a long journey for the WNBA Basketball superstar and Olympian who was arrested at a Russian airport on February 17th.
The United States immediately accused Russia of holding her unjustly, because of tensions between the two countries following the invasion of Ukraine. Russia denied the claims.
Griner, widely regarded as one of the best basketball players of her time, male or female, had travelled to Russia to participate in that country’s basketball league for UMMC Ekaterinburg. It was later revealed that due to the exceedingly low wages paid by the women’s basketball league in the US, female professional players sought extra earnings opportunities during off season.
Her arrest and detainment received heavy publicity thanks to her teammates, her wife and US media who consistently campaigned for her release. In a handwritten letter delivered to President Joe Biden from her cell in Russia she said, “…as I sit here in a Russian prison, alone with my thoughts and without the protection of my wife, family, friends, Olympic jersey, or any accomplishments, I’m terrified I might be here forever. I realize you are dealing with so much, but please don’t forget about me and the other American detainees. Please do all you can to bring us home. I voted for the first time in 2020 and I voted for you. I believe in you. I still have so much good to do with my freedom that you can help restore.”
Soon after, the United States announced the possibility of a prisoner swap.
Weeks after that millions including Magnetic Media representatives watched live as a court representative in rapid fire Russian told Griner her verdict. A member of her legal team leaned his head against the bars separating them and quietly translated out of earshot of the press.
She stood up and was led away without emotion as reporters shouted questions at her. It was only minutes later when the translation came that the world realized she had been sentenced to nine years in a penal colony.
Now she is out, freed and home. Biden described her as an incomparable athlete who represented “the best of America.”
Naturally, it is not without controversy as many are now offering that the blood of many more Ukrainians will be spilled due to the deal. Some citing that it was pathetic to leave an ex-marine in Russia’s hands, with yet more calling the moment a show of weakness.
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, 23rd January 2025 – The Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force recently intercepted illegal handheld gambling devices coming through Howard Hamilton International Airport. Often disguised as everyday electronic gadgets, these devices are strictly prohibited under the Casino Ordinance, which imposes severe penalties for their importation.
In the past month alone, Border Force officers intercepted 70 such devices during routine inspections of passengers’ luggage and cargo. Smugglers frequently attempt to conceal these items within personal belongings or mislabel them on cargo manifests to evade detection.
Sophisticated tactics, including hidden compartments and misleading product descriptions, are commonly employed to bypass customs
controls.
Under the Casino Ordinance, importing, possessing, or distributing unlicensed gambling devices is a criminal offence. Offenders may face fines of up to $3,000, imprisonment for up to two years, or both, depending on the severity of the violation.
The Border Force hereby reminds the public that ignorance of the law is no defence and urges all travellers and businesses to comply with import regulations. Travellers are advised to ensure that any electronic devices they bring into the country comply with local laws. Importers and retailers are likewise reminded to verify the legality of their products before shipment.
It is important to note that TCI Lotto Games is the only authorised operator of lottery activities in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Any other entity or individual involved in importing or possessing unlicensed gambling devices is breaching the Casino Ordinance and will be held accountable under the law. By remaining vigilant and adhering to these regulations, travellers and businesses can help prevent illegal activities and support the integrity of the Turks and Caicos Islands’ border controls.
For all media inquiries, please contact crilightbourne@gov.tc
PRESS RELEASE
FROM THE GRAND BAHAMA PORT AUTHORITY, LIMITED
Freeport, Grand Bahama – January 23, 2025 – The Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) is thrilled to announce its title sponsorship of the 12th Annual Tour De Grand Bahama cycling competition, now officially branded the “Grand Bahama Port Authority Tour De Grand Bahama.” Organized by the Grand Bahama Cycling Association, this highly anticipated two-day event will take place on February 8th and 9th, 2025, attracting both Bahamian and international cyclists.
Dr. Telina Smith, Director of Human Resources & Administrator for GBPA Donations, shared the organization’s excitement about supporting this signature event. “We are proud supporters of sporting events, health and wellness initiatives, and cycling activities on the island. These include the GBPA Conchman Triathlon, in which our Acting Chairman, Sarah St. George, participates annually, as well as the Horrible Hundred, another prominent cycling competition hosted by the Grand Bahama Cycling Association. We commend Kenton Roker and his team for making the Tour de Grand Bahama such a meaningful event, uniting the community and attracting cyclists from around the world.”
Kenton Roker, President of the Grand Bahama Cycling Association, expressed gratitude for GBPA’s continued support since the inception of the event. “I would like to thank the Grand Bahama Port Authority for coming on board as a title sponsor. Their support has been integral to the success of this competition year after year. This year promises to be the best one yet due to significant international interest,” said Roker.
Cyclists from the University of Florida in Gainesville, two teams from Tampa, Florida, a contingent from Turks and Caicos, as well as competitors from Canada, Nassau, Grand Bahama, and the Family Islands, will participate. “We are expecting more than 50 cyclists to compete this year,” Roker noted. He also expressed appreciation to all additional event sponsors who make this prestigious competition possible.
The two-day event features three dynamic stages that will challenge cyclists of all levels. The competition kicks off with a 3.7-mile time trial – a race against the clock designed to test speed and endurance. The second stage is a closed-circuit race lasting one hour, plus three laps, where strategy and pacing will be crucial. On Sunday, the event culminates with a grueling open-category road race: an 80-mile test of stamina and skill starting and finishing at the GBPA Headquarters. Female cyclists will tackle a 60-mile course, while juniors will compete in a 40-mile race, ensuring inclusivity and excitement across all categories.
The Grand Bahama Port Authority is honored to be the driving force behind an event that celebrates athletic excellence, promotes health and wellness, and showcases Grand Bahama as a hub for world-class sporting events.
For more information about the Grand Bahama Port Authority Tour De Grand Bahama, please contact the Grand Bahama Cycling Association at 359-4697 or 442-8346.
Photo Caption:
Pictured Left to Right: Lorna Maxis, GB Cycling Association Representative; Kenton Roker, GB Cycling Association President; Dr. Telina Smith, GBPA Director of Human Resources; Cara Saunders, GB Cycling Association Representative
-
Crime5 days agoFrom TCI Police, a DOUBLE HOMICIDE:
-
Bahamas News6 days agoFreeport Health Campus development, progressing steadily
-
Bahamas News1 week agoCIBC Caribbean warns about ‘smishing’ scam
-
TCI News7 days agoTURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS GOVERNMENT (TCIG) – SPACEX INCIDENT PUBLIC ADVISORY
-
News7 days agoAnother Hard-hitting loss for Turks and Caicos; Gospel preacher Elva Talbot Murdered at home
-
Caribbean News6 days agoGovernment Committed to Making Housing More Affordable – PM
-
Crime4 days agoUpdated Double Homicide Statement – #2
-
Caribbean News6 days agoCancer Care Equipment Commissioned into Service at National Public Health Laboratory