It flashed across the screen briefly, a bedazzled flock of flamingos with the text, "The Bahamas 50: One Nation. Our Legacy. Our Future."

The reveal came during "The Grand Unveiling" of the official 50th independence logo and theme in Rawson Square last night.

It was unclear whose logo and theme won as no name was given during the reveal.

The finalists included Durelle Williams, Devante Butler and Kerstin Pinder, a Pre-flight graphic artist and web marketing coordinator in The Nassau Guardian's Advertising Department.

After the logo was unveiled, fireworks shot into the night sky, exploding into color, then a Junkanoo rushout ensued.

Before the festiveness got underway, though, Prime Minister Philip Davis urged Bahamians to get involved with this year's celebration.

"As we move forward into our golden jubilee celebrations, I invite every person in our Bahama Islands and around the world - every citizen, every resident and every friend of The Bahamas - to join me in making two pledges during this independence year," he said during a ceremony that drew hundreds of residents.

"Firstly, pledge to participate. Don't just sit on the sidelines watching and leave it to others.

"Actively participate in at least one independence activity this year. No matter your age or stage of life, no matter how busy you are, or how beset by current troubles, do something meaningful to mark the 50th anniversary.

"This moment belongs to us all. Participate in an official event, or work with others to mark independence in your own way.

"We are all part of the fabric of this nation and we each have a role to play in our national development.

"Secondly, I want you to pledge to make our country stronger.

"Set yourself a personal goal, to achieve something, to do something, to learn a new skill or lift yourself up in some way, so that by the end of this year, you can point to a personal achievement.

"Learn a new trade or learn how to farm. Walk every day or read a book every month. Learn Grammy's recipe for peas 'n' rice or decide to cut out peas 'n' rice for the year. Whatever it is, let it be something that helps to take you closer to the vision you have for your life."

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