NEW YORK – The Bahamian-American Association Incorporated (BAAI), New York, formerly The Nassau Bahamas Association, hosted its 7th annual Christmas Splash on Saturday, December 7th in Harlem. This year’s Splash was held under the Patronage of the Honorable Forrester J. Carroll, J.P., Consul General of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas at New York and Dr. Valencia P. Carroll.
Additional dignitaries included His Excellency Dr. Eugene G. Newry, Ambassador at the Embassy of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas at Washington, D.C. and Mrs. Newry; Vice Consul Mrs. Sandra M. McLaughlin of the Bahamas Consulate General at New York and Mr. McLaughlin. The BAAI and its predecessor Nassau Bahamas Association, Inc. is deeply appreciative for the cooperation and support it has received from the Bahamas Government over the years, through the assistance of the Consulate General of The Bahamas at New York and its successive Consul Generals. The Bahamian-American Community was delighted that the Honorable Forrester J. Carroll, J.P., delivered remarks that inspired the Association to keep the Bahamian heritage alive. Our Mistress of Ceremonies for the evening was Ms. Cordell Cleare, daughter of two proud Bahamians and Chief of Staff for Senator Bill Perkins.
Bahamians, Bahamian-Americans and Friends of the Bahamas young and old came from near and far to enjoy the Bahamian culture. A traditional Bahamian Christmas meal was served followed by dancing to the beat of native Bahamian music. The Association Members are aware that our Fore Fathers have blazed a trail like none other – one of perseverance, tenacity and courage. In May of 2013 a new BAAI Executive Team was elected and the journey over the past few months has been quite rewarding. The rejuvenation efforts started with an All-Day Cook- Out and Fun Day in August; followed by a Bahamian Food Stall at the West Indian Day Parade on the Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn; 101stculminated with a champagne toast and presentation of a Proclamation from Senator Bill Perkins to commemorate the milestone; and the year ended in a Splash!
The BAAI, a fraternal Bahamian- American Association, is proud to be the successor of the Nassau Bahamas Association, one of the oldest fraternal associations in the State of New York. The Association was founded September 17, 1912 by ten Bahamian men, who had made the United States their new home. The Founders of the Association trace their roots to many of the islands of The Bahamas, including New Providence, Andros, Abaco, Cat Island, Eleuthera, Exuma and Long Island. In 1922, Bahamian women took their place as members of the Association. The Association was incorporated in New York State 6 July 1939 and in 1946, purchased its building at 211 West 137ththe building serves as the Association’s Headquarters.
The BAAI has a strong historical legacy and we look forward to a bright and progressive future. For more information contact us via email: thebaai@hotmail.com or see our website www.thebaai.org., 2013. The celebration was held at the Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. State Office Street, in historic Harlem, New York City.
