Bahamas News
BAHAMAS: Independence Marks Call to Action to Improve the Country
#Freeport, Grand Bahama, July 10, 2018 – Bahamas – Making a better Bahamas for future generations is what Bahamians should focus on 
when singing the National Anthem – a call to action to improve the country, said Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, the Hon. K. Peter Turnquest on Sunday. He made this call during the Ecumenical Service of Thanksgiving at Calvary Temple Assemblies of God in celebration of the 45th Anniversary of Bahamas Independence. The 45th Independence celebrations are being held under the theme, ‘Celebrate Bahamas: We’ve Come This Far By Faith.’
Among those attending the service were: President of the Senate, the Hon. Katherine Smith; Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, the Hon. Michael Pintard; Minister of State for Grand Bahama in the Office of the Prime Minister, Senator the Hon. J. Kwasi Thompson and Mrs. Thompson; Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Works and Utilities, Iram Lewis and Mrs. Lewis; other Members of Parliament and senior government officials.
The Deputy Prime Minister said Independence was not one man’s dream or ambition, but “It was the common loftier goal of a people, it was an 
earnest movement to create a better way of life for all Bahamians, for opportunity and prosperity, for freedom and equality.”
When people sing the National Anthem, it is a call to action to keep improving the country – a call that does not end. The National Anthem, he said, calls residents to keep the spirit of Independence alive.
He asked the congregation to do three things every time they remember the moment the Union Jack was lowered and the Bahamian flag hoisted: draw inspiration from the past — the founding fathers and mothers of the country through their vision, afforded many freedoms and opportunities; use that inspiration to strengthen the necessary resolve to do the work needed today, as the country is very different today and the world is more competitive; and participate in shaping a better tomorrow for all Bahamians, as each generation has done something to improve the lives of the generation to follow.
It was after Independence that equal access to education was granted, then higher education was attained; and for future generations, it is important that education translates to economic empowerment.
“If we are to honour the spirit of Independence we cannot treat is as though it were a thing of the past. We cannot commemorate the day every July 10, we must embody the spirit each and every day. If we put our faith in God and honour our pledge to our country, the reward will be success in building a better Bahamas for all.”
In closing, he said that his prayer is “that example set by our ancestors, our national leaders and heroes will continue to guide us and fill us with inspiration. My prayer today is that we will be as committed and courageous as they were when we face the challenges of today. And finally, my prayer for us all is that we might be united in love and service as we work to build a brighter future for The Bahamas.”
Independence celebrations on the island of Grand Bahama continue tonight with the 45th Grand Anniversary Celebrations – Cultural Extravaganza, Tattoo and Fireworks Display at Independence Park.
By: Robyn Adderley (BIS)
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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