Bahamas News
Statement from BAMSI on the Passing of its Chairman, Tennyson Wells
#Nassau, September 25, 2019 – Bahamas – The Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute (BAMSI) is saddened to announce today that its Chairman, Tennyson R. G. Wells – statesman, businessman and nationalist at heart – died early Tuesday morning.
Mr. Wells served as president of BAMSI and Chairman of the Board since early 2017, only recently stepping down in July 2019 as president, but continuing on as Chairman. Under Mr. Well’s leadership, BAMSI implemented a new operating model and production cycle that secured greater financial gains for the Institute and created a more stable and secure entity for its hundreds of employees.
During his time of service to BAMSI, Mr. Wells built a legacy of outstanding service, compassionate stewardship, fiscal responsibility and forward focus. He remained committed to streamlining the lnstitute’s financial output and maximizing its production to service a growing local market.
Supporting the staff and protecting their jobs was also a high priority for Mr. Wells. His aim was to stabilize and reorient the staff, allowing them to utilize their best strengths for the good of BAMSI.
As part of his legacy, his ultimate goal was to see Bahamians achieve, and as such, he was intent on instituting a succession plan for BAMSI. Mr. Wells put in place a strong leadership team that will continue to carry out his vision- that of fiscal responsibility, a strengthened academic focus, increased production and improved employee productivity.
Under his leadership, BAMSI implemented a Business to Business model that saw a substantial increase in sales, the start of a forecasting cycle, greater focus on research and the implementation of best agricultural practices.
As a Family Island man at heart, Mr. Wells was born in Deadman’s Cay, Long Island, he understood how important BAMSI was to the people of North Andros. Not only was BAMSI providing their children with the opportunity to gain a tertiary level education in the field of Agriculture and Marine Science right at their door step, but it also provided jobs for many Androsians and allowed the community to experience an economic boom. As BAMSI grew, so did the North Andros community, new infrastructure was put in place for the North Andros campus and an influx of students, lecturers and staff needed access to housing, retail outlets and other resources.
Based on his extensive professional and political experience, Mr. Wells was able to initiate a number of capital development projects for BAMSI, including the rebuilding of the main office in the BARTAD complex in Andros, and construction of a new packing house.
Among his more important initiatives, was the establishment of the “BAMSI Gives Back” Foundation. this was the multipronged opportunity for BAMSI to positively impact the community and its staff. Starting in the early 2019s, the Foundation was a way for the Institute to help employees connect the dots between the work they do and build a stronger, food secure community, where everyone has access to locally grown, fresh and nutritious foods. Ultimately, Mr. Wells believed the experience of donating to the less fortunate and most vulnerable in society would help build a more productive, more compassionate and engaged workforce.
Perhaps most importantly, he treasured his roots in Long Island and placed a premium on the strength and resilience of Bahamian ingenuity and creativity. He will be missed, and our thoughts are with the family during this difficult time.
Signed by Donald Symonette
Release: BAMSI
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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