Bahamas News
Bahamas Deputy Prime Minister Lauds Work of Customs Officers
#Bahamas, January 29, 2018 – Nassau – Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, the Hon. K. Peter Turnquest on Wednesday, applauded the work of Customs Officers being honoured in special ceremonies, and noted they were appreciated for their years of dedication and sacrifice.
The 3rd Northern Bahamas Long Service Awards and World Customs Organization Certificate of Merit Awards Ceremony was held at A Social Affair, where officers serving 30 and 20 years were recognized for their contribution. Two employees: Chief Customs/Revenue Officer, Mrs. Deborah Bootle; and Cashier, Mrs. Joan Scott, were also awarded the World Customs Organization-Certificate of Merit Award 2018.
The honourees, he said, have given their time and careers to advancing the Department to where it is. “Tonight, we are here to celebrate and honour these distinguished men and women who have given significantly of their time, their careers, and their youthful energy to forwarding this Department to the level of professionalism that we enjoy today.”
The Deputy Prime Minister noted that most of the honourees served in various capacities in the Department and in different locations during their tenure with great sacrifice to themselves and their families. “We know, that as a government, we could never adequately compensate them for that and so the least we can do is to recognize and honour them for that sacrifice.”
He said he was pleased to participate in the event to show appreciation to the officers, as a citizen of the country, but as also the representative of the government with responsibility for the Department of Customs, to let them know how much their service to the country is appreciated.
Also addressing the gathering was Comptroller of Customs, Dr. Geanine Moss who said those being honoured have completed a lifetime of service to the Customs Department.
“All of you are worthy of these accolades as you have weathered the many storms at Customs over these many long years. Twenty years is a long time, 30 years on any job today is a phenomenal feat. Your dedication, commitment and persistence has led to a better organization.”
Stating that the Department has a bright future, Dr. Moss added, “Your shoulders are the shoulders that our young officers have to climb onto to propel this Department forward. Uplift them, motivate them and they will be able to glean from your experiences and thrust forward.
“They are the new technological era. We are the voice of wisdom. In order to develop economically, changes must come. This Department has begun its metamorphosis and as the business environment grows, we have to be ready.”
Dr. Moss noted that because of the honourees, the Department is ready for any changes that may come and said they were all deserving of being honoured.
Those honoured for 30 years were: Senior Customs/Revenue Officers Pamela Williams, Miriam Fernander, Reina Predelus, Carneta Farrington, Robert Julien and Linda Brown. Customs/Revenue Officers II Ellarese Thompson, Terrance Ferguson and Verdell Russell were also recognized. Senior Customs Guard Herbert Rahming; Senior Executive Officer, Cheryl Whymns; Executive Officer, Ann Francis; and Chief Registry Clerk, Gwendolyn Henfield were also honoured for 30 years of service.
Jannell Hield and Keva Powell-Williams, Customs/Revenue Officers I, along with Denise Rolle, Telephonist I were all recognized for 20 years of service.
The theme for the celebration is, “A Secure Business Environment for Economic Development” and will include other events such as a church service on Sunday at Calvary Temple on Clive Avenue at 10 am. A Customs Digital Exhibition will be held from Monday, January 29 to Wednesday, January 31 in the foyer of the C.A. Smith Complex from 10 am to 3 pm.
On February 16, Customs staff will engage in a community service activity by donating cleaning supplies to the senior citizens at the Home Away from Home Centre for the Aged on Amberjack Street in Caravel Beach. While there from 11 am to 2pm, they will also provide lunch and interact with the residents.
Some of the male officers will mentor the young men at Genesis Academy, Trip Circle, on February 19 between 11 am and 11 pm and while there, Customs Revenue Officer II, Wenito Bootle, will give a motivational speech.
Additionally, in an effort to enhance the relationship between Customs and relevant stakeholders, particularly couriers and licensees, two fora will be held: On February 28, a session for Couriers and Shipping and Airline Agents, as well as Customs Brokers will be held from 4 to 6 pm in Room 3 of the C.A. Smith Complex. On March 1, a session with Licensees who are contractors, manufacturers and Customs Brokers associated with them will be held.
The 29th International Customs Day will be held on Friday, January 26.
By: Robyn Adderley
Photo captions:
Header: Following the Bahamas Customs and Excise Department Longer Service and World Customs Organization Certificate of Merit Awards Ceremony on Wednesday, January 24, 2018 the honourees were photographed with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, the Hon. K. Peter Turnquest; Dr. Geanine Moss, Comptroller of Customs; and other senior officials. Shown from left in the front row are: Pamela Williams, Senior Customs/Revenue Officer (30 years); Mrs. Deborah Bootle, Chief Customs/Revenue Officer, World Customs Organization Certificate of Merit Awardee 2018; Minister Turnquest; Dr. Moss; Gregory Jones, Customs Superintendent; and Larry Bodie, Customs Superintendent. Shown from left standing are: Keva Powell-Williams, Customs/Revenue Officer I (20 years); Jannell Hield, Customs/Revenue Officer I (20 years); Cheryl Whymns, Senior Executive Officer (30 years); Mrs. Joan Scott, Cashier, World Customs Organization Certificate of Merit Awardee 2018; Ann Francis, Executive Officer (30 years); Herbert Rahming, Senior Customs Guard (30 years); Reina Predelus, Senior Customs/Revenue Officer (30 years); Linda Brown, Senior Customs/Revenue Officer (30 years); Miriam Fernander, Senior Customs/Revenue Officer (30 years); Denise Rolle, Telephonist I (20 years); and Robert Julien, Senior Customs/Revenue Officer (30 years).
(BIS Photo/Lisa Davis)
Insert: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, the Hon. K. Peter Turnquest, was the guest speaker during the Bahamas Customs and Excise Department Long Service and World Customs Organization Certificate of Merit Awards Ceremony on Wednesday, January 24, 2018. The event was held at A Social Affair and some 18 people were honouored.
(BIS Photo/Lisa Davis)
Bahamas News
Get your laugh on, March On, family drama by Gea Pierre, debut this weekend in Turks and Caicos
This is the sixth edition of the relays and the fourth time that The Bahamas has hosted the event, which actually made its debut in The Bahamas in 2014.
President, World Athletics, Sabastian Coe said after three very successful editions from 2014 to 2017, the World Athletics Relays has quickly become one of the World Athletics vibrant competitions, developing a culture of fun and innovation that gives it a unique flavour.
He thanked the Bahamas Government, the local World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 committee and the Bahamian people for agreeing to host the relays. However, his main thanks were to the “world’s best sprinters” travelling from all the continents to compete in preparation for the road to Paris, France, in two months’ time.
During the opening ceremony, the athletes were given words of advice from Carl Lewis, one of only four Olympic athletes to have won nine Olympic gold medals, who is widely recognized as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
He said, “Keep it simple, do not try to do anything extra. Do what your coaches said. Leave on time, leave on time, leave on time.”
The athletes and crowds were treated to the sounds and sights of Junkanoo at the end of the opening ceremony. The Junkanoo performers stuck around for the two days of competitions, playing for the sprinters as they competed on the track.
Teams competed in the Women’s and men’s 4x100m, and the women’s men’s and mixed 4x400m. A total of 14 teams at the World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 automatically qualified for places at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Both days of competition were important, as day two offered another chance for qualifications for those teams unsuccessful on day one.
Bahamians were made proud as the country set a new national record during the mixed 4x400m relays thanks to the efforts of 16-year-old Shania Adderley, a student of Tabernacle Baptist Academy.
The team came first in their heat on Sunday evening after not being able to gain a spot for the Paris Olympics on the first day of competition.
Other sprinters on the team included Alonzo Russell, as well as Olympic champions Steven Gardiner and Shaunae Miller-Uibo.
NASSAU, The Bahamas – During his remarks at the Opening Ceremony for the World Athletics Relays 2024, on May 4, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis welcomed the special guests, athletes, officials, and “all lovers of athletics from around the world” to the Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium here in the “vibrant heart” of Nassau, Bahamas.
“This weekend, the world’s finest athletes gather on our shores to embark on a journey that is not only about speed and strength but also about dreams and determination,” Prime Minister Davis said. “From the serene beauty of our islands to the historic grandeur of Paris, this event marks a crucial path to the Olympic Games in Paris 2024.”
He added: “Here in The Bahamas, we are no strangers to world-class athletics or the warmth and exuberance that such international gatherings bring. It is a distinct honor to once again welcome the World Athletics Relays back to our islands. This event holds a special place in our hearts, symbolizing a bridge between nations brought together by the universal language of sport.”
Prime Minister Davis noted that that year’s theme, “Paradise to Paris,” captured the essence of that journey.
“It is here, amidst the splendor of our sun-kissed beaches and the rhythmic sway of our palms that the chase towards Olympic glory begins anew,” he stated. “We are thrilled to offer a backdrop of unparalleled beauty, where every sprint, every baton pass, and every victory lap is set against the picture-perfect canvas of our islands.”
He added: “To our athletes, I say this: as you stand on the precipice of your dreams, ready to catapult yourself into the annals of history, know that you are part of a legacy of excellence and determination. This weekend, you are not only competitors but also ambassadors of your countries and the spirit of sport. We are especially proud of Team Bahamas, who carry the weight of their performance and the hopes and pride of our nation. You embody the spirit of The Bahamian people, and we are behind you every step of the way.”
Prime Minister said that to the international visitors, he extended “the warmest Bahamian welcome”.
“Over the next few days, as you revel in the thrill of competition, take a moment to bask in the beauty of our island,” he stated. “Discover why we proudly say, “It’s Better in The Bahamas.” Whether it’s the hospitality of our people, the tranquility of our waters, or the rhythm of our culture, you are in for an experience that captures the heart and rejuvenates the soul.”
“Let us celebrate the unity and friendship that sports foster, cheering every athlete and savoring the spectacle of human potential at its best,” Prime Minister Davis added. “I hope the races are swift, the results are inspiring, and the memories are lasting.
“Welcome to The Bahamas, the paradise where champions chase their dreams to Paris. As your host, it is my immense pleasure to declare the World Athletics Relays Bahamas 2024 officially open. Let the games begin.”
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