Bahamas News
BAHAMAS: Dog Day Afternoon at Claridge Primary
#Bahamas, May 10, 2018 – Nassau – Rain that forced a lesson about caring for animals into classrooms from a planned courtyard assembly did 
little to dampen the spirits some 60 students who could not get enough of petting the pets and learning surprising facts about why some of their own favourite foods are dangerous for their four-legged friends.
The session was courtesy of BAARK (Bahamas Alliance for Animal Rights and Kindness) and a local representative of Washington, D.C-based Pet Food Institute (PFI), an association that includes 95% of all pet food manufacturers and is committed to education and awareness of the importance of pet nutrition and wellness.
Shelley Hardman and Jonathan Hernandez, both of locally-based BAARK, and a local PFI shared the sessions at Claridge Primary in Nassau along with high energy Grade 2 students and two well-behaved dogs.
“Students learned what are good and bad foods for pets,” said PFI representative Olivia Dorsett. “We explained why foods like grapes, cookies, chocolate and raisins might be yummy for adults, but could be harmful to pets. Our food, not theirs, we explained and provided them with a hand-out listing the dangerous foods so they could share with others in their family or neighbourhood.”
In addition to what to feed pets, students learned the importance of flea and tick prevention, safe water tips, what to do when you meet a new dog, how to approach an unfamiliar dog, how to tell if a dog is safe to approach, and how to pet them, including initially with a balled up fist to keep fingers 
safe, allowing it to sniff the stranger before opening the palm of your hand.
“Shelley and Jonathan also demonstrated how a child should stand with arms folded, head up if a strange dog approaches and they are a bit nervous, noting that running away will only make the animal chase them,” Dorsett said. “Students saw photos of dog expressions and body language to help them gauge whether it would be better to walk away or to safe to approach. There was a lot to learn to ensure that going forward interaction between dog and child, teacher, parent or friend would be calm and friendly and the students – and teachers – seemed really eager to take it all in.”
The Claridge Primary visit is one of an ongoing series of school visits by the local organization and reps for PFI Caribbean which covers The Bahamas, Jamaica, Turks and Caicos and Trinidad and Tobago. PFI is celebrating its 60th anniversary of striving to improve pets’ lives through wellness and pet owners’ education.
Release: DPA
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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