The Queen Honours the King with 23 others

Nassau, The Bahamas – The Bahamas recognised 24 outstanding individuals for their service and contributions to national development during the Queen’s Birthday Honours 2010 at Government House.

Her Majesty the Queen’s representative in The Bahamas Governor-General Sir Arthur Foulkes presented the honourees with their medals during a special ceremony on December 13. Chief Justice Sir Michael Barnett, President of the Senate Lyn Holowesko, Cabinet Ministers, Members of Parliament, Secretary to the Cabinet Anita Bernard, senior Government officials, clergy, Police Commissioner Ellison Greenslade and family were among those witnessing the event. The Royal Bahamas Police Force Band provided music for the event.

The honourees are as follows: Solomon Kerzner, who received the award of Knight Commander of the Most Distinguished Order of Saint Michael and Saint George (KCMG) Honorary for his singular contribution in tourism. Mr. Kerzner is the chairman of Kerzner International, the largest private sector employer in The Bahamas.

Warren Levarity and Monsignor Preston Moss have been made Companions of the Order of St. Michael and St. George (CMG). Mr. Levarity was recognised for his role in the struggle for Majority Rule, democratic reform and equality for all Bahamians.

Msgr. Moss, a priest in the Roman Catholic Archdiocese was acknowledged for nearly half a century of service in active ministry and faithful citizenship.

Four individuals received the award of Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE). They are: Rev. Kenris Carey, Bishop B. Wenith Davis, Rev. Vernon Moss and William “Billy” Lowe.

Marvin Dames, Deputy Commissioner of Police and Quinn McCartney, Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police have been awarded the Queen’s Police Medal (QPM) for distinguished service in law enforcement.

Six individuals have been made members of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE). They are: Marvin Bethell, Alfred Bismark Coakley, Susan Holowesko Larson, Elaine Pinder, Susan Roberts and Rev. Ralph Russell. They were recognised for their contributions in business, insurance, environmental stewardship, charitable outreach, religion and work in non-governmental organisations.

Nine individuals received the award of the British Empire medal (Civil Division) (BEM). They are: Cleomie Antonio, Beryl Brenda Archer, James Dean, Emmett Munroe, Arlene Nash Ferguson, Olivia Turnquest, Rev. John Wallace and Erma Williams.

They were acknowledged for contributions to business, education, cultural expression, politics, community service and development.

In his remarks Prime Minister the Rt. Hon. Hubert Ingraham said all of the recipients are deserving of having their names and accomplishments etched in the annals of the country’s history. “Your selection for recognition by your Government, many at the recommendation of those who work beside you or who have benefited from your unselfish service, is a demonstration of that fact.

He said the contributions of the honourees in tourism, the church, business, politics, philanthropy and community development and in a variety of professions have been essential to the building of a vibrant and modern Bahamas.

“Because of your service, we are considerably better and may look forward to an even better tomorrow. A grateful nation congratulates and thanks each and every one of your,” said the Prime Minister.