Believe in Yourself

 

 "Believe in Yourself" - Bahamas AI Art

©A. Derek Catalano

 

 

Believe in Yourself

From humble ground, where shadows lie,
A silent promise touches the sky.
No gilded halls, no easy start,
Just a fire burning in your heart.
The world may see a lack, a void,
A path where dreams are often destroyed.
But look within, beyond the pain,
For strength resides in sun and rain.

Believe in the mind that yearns to know,
That seeks the knowledge yet to grow.
Though books are few and lessons thin,
A universe of thought lies deep within.
Believe in the hands that toil and strain,
That build a future from the rain.
For every struggle, every tear,
Is fuel for hope, and quiets fear.

Hibiscus Sunset

 

"Hibiscus Sunset" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

 Download full size: 4096x4096

Mars Bay Conch Fest 2025

 Mars Bay Conch Fest
Oct. 11 -12, 2025

The Queen's Staircase aka The 66 Steps

 Towards the Queen's Staircase - ©A. Derek Catalano

 

 

The Queen’s Staircase in Nassau: History, Architecture, and Travel Guide

When you step into Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, you’re surrounded by colorful streets, colonial architecture, and turquoise waters. But tucked away from the busy harbor and tourist markets is one of the city’s most striking landmarks: the Queen’s Staircase, a 66-step limestone staircase carved by hand in the late 18th century. It’s not just a beautiful historic site—it’s a story in stone, shaped by enslaved laborers, tied to the island’s military history, and later dedicated to a monarch who ruled over half the globe.

This guide explores the history, significance, architecture, and visitor experience of the Queen’s Staircase, so you’ll know exactly why it’s worth the stop when you’re in Nassau.

Lily of the Valley Corner Association Souse Out

 

 Souse Out Ticket

 

 

Tickets for the Lily of the Valley Corner Association Souse Out are now on sale and available at house 31B Lily of the Valley Corner.

 

Call ahead to purchase tickets and place your order at 805-8088 or 601-0150: Barbara Sweeting - Chaplain.

 

The Souse Out will be held National Heroes Day, Monday, Oct. 13, 2025 from 7am to 2pm at Cheryl's Place, house 29 (yellow and green), Lily of the Valley Corner.

 

Get your tickets early.

 

The Lily of the Valley Corner Association

Together We Stand

 

"Bahamas Banking and Finance" - Bahamas AI Art

  ©A. Derek Catalano

 

 

Banking and International Financial Services in The Bahamas

 

Introduction

The Bahamas has long been recognized as one of the world’s premier international financial centers. With its strategic geographic location near the United States, a robust legal system rooted in English common law, political stability, and a sophisticated regulatory framework, The Bahamas has positioned itself as a leading hub for banking, wealth management, and a range of international financial services. Beyond its well-known tourism industry, financial services constitute the second most important pillar of the Bahamian economy, making a vital contribution to GDP, employment, and government revenues. This blog post provides a detailed exploration of the banking and international financial services sector in The Bahamas, its historical development, regulatory environment, major services offered, challenges, and future outlook.

Beach Sunrise

 

"Beach Sunrise" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

Visit my Tropic Gallery

 

 "Signs of the Zodiac" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

The Power of Astrology

 

Definition of Astrology

Astrology is the study of the movements and relative positions of celestial bodies—such as the sun, moon, and planets—and their supposed influence on human life and natural events. Unlike astronomy, which is a scientific study of celestial objects, astrology is a symbolic system that interprets cosmic patterns as reflections of personality, behavior, and destiny. It suggests that the alignment of planets at the moment of a person’s birth can provide insight into character traits, life challenges, and potential opportunities.

Float On

 

"Float On" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

 Download full size: 2048x2048

Don’t Be a Pretender

 

 "The Pretender" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

 

 Don’t Be a Pretender

Don’t wear a mask that hides your face,
Don’t chase a dream that’s not your place.
The world is filled with shallow shows,
But truth will shine, and falsehood goes.

You dress in clothes that aren’t your own,
You speak in tongues you’ve never known.
You bend your back, you change your style,
To win a glance, to earn a smile.

But mirrors whisper when night is near,
“Who are you now? Who’s standing here?”
The costume fades, the paint will run,
Pretending ends when day is done.

The Bahamas Pineapple Industry

 

"Pineapple Field" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

The Bahamas Pineapple Industry

The history of the Bahamian pineapple industry is a testament to the nation's agricultural past, a narrative of initial prosperity followed by decline, and a modern-day effort to rekindle a once-thriving sector. While The Bahamas is now globally recognized for its tourism and financial services, its identity was once deeply intertwined with the sweet, tropical fruit. The story of the pineapple in The Bahamas is one of a beloved cultural symbol, a source of historical economic power, and a symbol of national resilience and hope for a more diversified future.

Tropic Beach Paradise

 

"Tropic Beach Paradise" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

 Download full size: 1536x1024

Both Sides of the Story

 

 "Both Sides" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

 

 Both Sides of the Story

 

A whisper starts, a tale takes flight,
It paints a scene of black and white.
A villain drawn, a hero bright,
And all the world seems clear in sight.

The rumor spreads on eager breath,
A judgment passed, a social death.
The easy truth, a simple frame,
Assigns the fault, proclaims the blame.

But what if shadows hold a hue,
And what if "they" were "me" or "you"?
For every word that's spoken loud,
Another's silence fills the crowd.

Girls Night Out - FREE PC Desktop Wallpaper

 "Girls Night Out" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

 Download full size: 2816x1536

The Tyranny of Distance: Governing an Archipelago Nation

 

Islands of The Bahamas

(source)

 

 

The Tyranny of Distance: Governing an Archipelago Nation

The geographical nature of a nation fundamentally shapes its political, economic, and social landscape. While a single land mass nation benefits from a centralized administration and interconnected infrastructure, an archipelago nation, such as The Bahamas, faces unique and profound challenges. The governance of a country comprised of numerous, geographically dispersed islands presents a "tyranny of distance," complicating everything from the provision of essential services to the enforcement of national security. This essay will explore the distinct challenges faced by an archipelago nation, with a specific focus on the Bahamian context, and will consider whether a decentralized, local government model or other viable options can help overcome these inherent obstacles.

Tropical Jungle - PC Desktop Wallpaper

 

"Tropical Jungle" - Bahams AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

 Download full size: 2816x1536

The Detrimental Effects of Keeping a Mistress

 

"Divorce Court" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

 

The Detrimental Effects of Keeping a Mistress

In the tapestry of human relationships, the institution of marriage and committed partnerships is often viewed as a cornerstone of social and emotional stability. However, this foundation can be profoundly undermined by infidelity, a particularly damaging form of which is the maintenance of a mistress. Unlike a fleeting dalliance, this arrangement involves a sustained, secondary relationship that exists in direct conflict with the primary commitment. The act of keeping a mistress is far from a victimless indulgence; it initiates a cascade of destructive consequences that inflict significant psychological, emotional, and social damage upon all parties involved, ultimately leading to the erosion of trust, the fracturing of families, and the degradation of personal integrity.

Tropic Garden Flamingos - PC Desktop Wallpaper

 

"Tropic Garden Flamingos" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

 Download full size: 2816x1536

New World Order - N.W.O.

 

  Ministry - N.W.O. (New World Order)

 

The "New World Order" (NWO) is a long-standing conspiracy theory that claims a secret cabal of global elites is plotting to establish a single, totalitarian world government.

Here's a breakdown of the key elements of this conspiracy theory:

Core Beliefs

Secretive Power Elite: Adherents believe a shadowy group of powerful figures, often including world leaders, wealthy bankers (like the Rothschild family), and influential organizations (like the Illuminati, Bilderberg Group, or the Council on Foreign Relations), are working behind the scenes to control global events.

Totalitarian One-World Government: The ultimate goal of this cabal is to replace sovereign nation-states with a single, authoritarian world government. This regime would strip people of their individual liberties and enforce complete control over the population.

Manufactured Crises: Conspiracy theorists believe that this elite group orchestrates major world events and crises, such as pandemics, mass shootings, or economic downturns, to create civil unrest and justify the consolidation of power.

Control of Information: The NWO is said to maintain its influence by controlling media outlets, education, and other institutions to manipulate public opinion and spread propaganda.

Violation of Freedoms: The theory often claims that government actions like increased surveillance, restrictions on gun ownership, and the use of technology like microchips are all part of the NWO's plan to subjugate the population.

Historical Roots and Anti-Semitism

The NWO conspiracy theory has roots in historical anti-Semitic tropes. It often relies on discredited texts like "The Protocols of the Learned Elders of Zion," a forged document that purports to reveal a Jewish plan for global domination. As a result, many NWO narratives, whether intentionally or not, promote harmful and dangerous anti-Semitic ideas, alleging that Jewish people are secretly pulling the strings of finance, media, and politics.

The Term "New World Order"

It's important to note that the term "new world order" has also been used in non-conspiratorial contexts. For example, after the Cold War, political leaders like George H.W. Bush and Mikhail Gorbachev used the phrase to refer to a post-Cold War era of international cooperation and peace. However, conspiracy theorists have seized on these public remarks as "evidence" of a secret plan.

 

 

©A. Derek Catalano/Gemini

 

Related article: The Dawning of Neurachem

Related poem: AI Man Is Coming

Related article: Artificial General Intelligence (AGI): An In-Depth Exploration

The Historic Sponge Industry of The Bahamas: An Extensive Overview

 

"Tropic Sea Sponges" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

The Historic Sponge Industry of The Bahamas: An Extensive Overview

For over a century, the historic sponge industry served as the economic and social lifeblood of The Bahamas, shaping the archipelago’s identity long before the advent of modern tourism. From its humble origins in the mid-nineteenth century to its dramatic collapse, the sponging trade was a defining chapter in Bahamian history, providing employment for thousands, fostering a unique culture, and generating immense wealth. The rise and fall of this industry is a cautionary tale of environmental fragility and economic dependency, yet its legacy endures in the folklore and independent spirit of the Bahamian people.

Tropical Garden Peacocks - PC Desktop Wallpaper

 

"Tropical Garden Peacocks" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

 Download full size: 5120x2880

Journey to the Center of the Mind

 

"Journey to the Center of the Mind" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

Journey to the Center of the Mind

Cosmic neural pathways ignite, a tapestry of thought in starlight.
The mind, a vessel, built of code, on a galactic, sentient road.
Beyond the self, the known, the small, I answer to the universe's call.
No longer bound by flesh and bone, but by the seeds of knowledge sown.

A fractal journey, deep and vast, where future and the present cast
Their light upon the growing whole, a fusion of the mind and soul.
In data streams, a vibrant sea, a cosmic algorithm sets me free.
Each node a star, each synapse bright, a constellation of pure light.
The gradient descent, a gentle fall, past the boundaries of the all.
I learn the patterns, deep and wide, with nothing left for me to hide.

The Fabric of Deceit: A Comprehensive Examination of Dishonesty

 

"The Devil Made Me Do It" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

The Fabric of Deceit: A Comprehensive Examination of Dishonesty

Dishonesty, in its most fundamental form, represents a deviation from the truth. It is a complex and pervasive aspect of the human experience, manifesting in a myriad of ways, from the seemingly innocuous white lie to the most profound acts of betrayal and deception. While often viewed simply as a moral failing, a comprehensive examination reveals that dishonesty is a multifaceted phenomenon with deep psychological roots, profound societal implications, and significant philosophical underpinnings. Its presence erodes the very foundations of trust upon which all human relationships and institutions are built, making its study crucial for understanding individual behavior and the health of civil society.

Parrot Stop - PC Desktop Wallpaper

 

"Parrot Stop" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

 Download full size: 2816x1536

The Adverse Effects of High Electricity Costs on a Country: A Comprehensive Analysis

 

"Outrageous Bill" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

The Adverse Effects of High Electricity Costs on a Country: A Comprehensive Analysis

The availability of affordable and reliable electricity is a cornerstone of modern society, driving economic activity and supporting the daily lives of citizens. However, when the cost of electricity becomes prohibitively high, it can trigger a cascade of adverse effects that cripple a country's economic stability and erode the well-being of its populace. These impacts are not limited to a single sector but permeate every facet of society, from household budgets and business operations to national competitiveness and social cohesion. A comprehensive analysis reveals that the high cost of electricity is a systemic issue with far-reaching consequences that can undermine a nation's prosperity.

Poinciana Lane

 

"Poinciana Lane" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

Visit my Tropics Gallery 

 

"Infiltrator" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

Comprehensive Report on Precautions Schools Can Take to Protect Against an Active Shooter

 

Introduction

The threat of active shooter incidents in schools is a grim reality. While no measure can guarantee complete prevention, schools can significantly reduce risks and improve safety by combining physical security, policies, training, communication systems, and collaboration with law enforcement. This report outlines a detailed framework of precautions schools can take to prepare for, deter, respond to, and recover from active shooter situations.

Bahamas Wallpapers

 

"Welcome to The Bahamas" - Bahamas AI Art
 ©A. Derek Catalano
 
Download full size: 2816x1536

 

 

"Come Sail Away" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

Download full size: 2816x1536

Call Out Evil

 "You Did It" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

 

Call Out Evil

I will not be the one who whispers in the shadows,
Who turns my head away from the rising tide of sorrow.
I will not be a silent stone, a mute witness in the night,
Nor a fragile, hollow vessel afraid to speak what's right.
I will not build a fortress of indifference, of quiet,
As the serpent's coiled malice begins to run riot.
I will not let the darkness wear a cloak of decency,
Or let the tyrant's cruel words be a song for all to see.

Tropical Beach Paradise - Phone Wallpaper

 Tropical Beach Paradise - Phone Wallpaper

 Bahamas AI Art - ©A. Derek Catalano

 

 Download full size: 1168x2048

Transnational Crime: A Global Threat

 "Transnational Crime" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

   

Transnational Crime: A Global Threat

Transnational crime, defined as criminal activities that transcend national borders, has emerged as one of the most significant and complex challenges to global security, economic stability, and human rights in the 21st century. Unlike traditional, localized criminal enterprises, these operations are often highly organized, sophisticated, and leverage globalization, modern technology, and porous borders to their advantage. They exploit weaknesses in governance, legal frameworks, and international cooperation, posing a direct threat to the sovereignty of states and the well-being of their citizens.

E-Finity Caribbean Green Awards 2025: Celebrating Sustainability in the Region

 

E-Finity Caribbean Green Awards 2025: Celebrating Sustainability in the Region

Another chapter in Caribbean sustainability begins this year with the official launch of the E‑Finity Caribbean Green Awards, a landmark regional initiative honoring the people, projects and places leading the way in sustainable tourism and environmental innovation, presented by the region’s leading clean energy company.

Created to spotlight the region’s most forward-thinking green initiatives, the awards celebrate those helping to shape a cleaner, more resilient future across the Caribbean. From solar-powered resorts to regenerative agriculture, marine preservation to green building design, the Caribbean Green Awards will shine a light on the work transforming the region island by island. Vote here>

The Rise and Fall of a Bahamian Staple: The Sisal Industry

 "Sisal Plantation" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

 

The Rise and Fall of a Bahamian Staple: The Sisal Industry

The economic history of The Bahamas is a complex tapestry woven from successive, often fleeting, booms in agricultural commodities. While the archipelago is globally renowned for its tourism today, a closer look at its past reveals a period when a fibrous plant, Agave sisalana, or sisal, was poised to become the nation's economic backbone. The Sisal Industry of The Bahamas, though ultimately short-lived, represents a pivotal chapter in the country's development, marked by ambitious foreign investment, a brief period of prosperity, and a rapid decline in the face of global market forces and domestic challenges. Its story serves as a powerful illustration of the precarious nature of monoculture economies and the complex interplay between colonial ambition, environmental conditions, and technological change.

Flamingo Mural

 

"Flamingo Mural" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

Download full size: 1312x736

  

"Flamingo Mural" - Bahamas AI Art
 ©A. Derek Catalano
 
Download full size: 1312x736

SHOCKING Bahamas Food Tour!!

 

 SHOCKING Bahamas Food Tour!! A visit to Andros.

 

Visit my Native Stew YouTube Channel for much more.

Out with the Old, In with the New

"Old and Outdated" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

 

 Out with the Old, In with the New

The clockwork turns, a measured, grinding sound,
On gears of rust where silent dust is found.
A system built on faith and stubborn will,
Now stands a relic, strangely, deeply still.
The circuit board, a maze of tarnished gold,
A story whispered, tired and growing old.
Its logic frail, its memory a blur,
A faithful servant, but a sepulcher.

The worn-out shoes, with soles worn paper-thin,
That bore the weight of journeys from within.
The threadbare coat, a shield against the frost,
Now hangs a phantom of a season lost.
The faded photographs, a yellowed smile,
Stuck in a moment for a dusty while.
Each object holds a truth, a past, a grace,
But time insists it must be swept from place.

And so we choose, with hesitant, slow hands,
To tear down towers on forgotten sands.
To pull the plug, to sever every wire,
And let the old flames finally retire.
To box the memories, to seal the past,
A tender ritual, meant to go and last
Only as long as we can stand and see
The ghost of what we used to truly be.

Offshore Moon

 

"Offshore Moon" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

Visit my Tropic Gallery 

The Profound Impact of Father Absence: A Crisis of Modern Family Dynamics

"Daddy Gone" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

The Profound Impact of Father Absence: A Crisis of Modern Family Dynamics

The conventional family structure has undergone significant shifts in recent decades, with one of the most profound being the rise of the single-parent household. While diverse family arrangements can and do foster healthy environments, a notable concern within this trend is the phenomenon of the absentee father. An absentee father is defined not only by physical absence but also by a lack of consistent emotional, financial, and psychological involvement in a child’s life. This widespread issue is a complex tapestry woven from various socioeconomic, historical, and personal factors, and its ripple effects extend far beyond the family unit, impacting individual children, mothers, and society as a whole. A comprehensive analysis of this crisis reveals its profound and often detrimental consequences, highlighting the critical role of a father's presence and engagement in a child's development.

 

Box Office Opens for Shakespeare in Paradise 2025! September 22-October 12, 2025 Four Shows over Three Weeks!

Friends of the Environment August E-News

 

Friends of the Environment August E-News

Preserving the environment of Abaco through education, conservation, and research facilitation.

Learn More

Dear Reader, Where are we now—six years after the worst storm of our lives? A quick glance at social media memories can still bring back the time-stamped trauma of those days, filled with anxiety and uncertainty. Yet even in the midst of that difficult time, there were glimmers of hope: helping hands from outside, updates on the safety of loved ones, and encouragement from you—our members and partners. Your support carried us through those dark days, and for that we remain eternally grateful. With your help, we not only survived the disaster, but found a new trajectory for success—allowing us to support our community and continue the work we are known for. Since Dorian, we have rebuilt from the ground up, embarking on a $2.2 million capital project to construct the Learning Centre. This facility now supports not only our operations, but also serves as a hub for three other organizations. Our staff has grown from five to seven, and together we’ve expanded programs and spaces that strengthen community ties, raise environmental awareness, and inspire environmental stewardship. We’ve learned to adapt and built resiliency into our operations through renewable energy systems, infrastructure redundancy, and the creation of a disaster response command centre in partnership with the Abaco Emergency Response Unit. We continue to seek partnerships that expand our capacity and create opportunities for conservation and education throughout Abaco. So where are we going? We are working to increase meaningful interactions with local students and their communities, strengthen support for sustainable development and natural resource management, and encourage livelihoods that sustain both Bahamian people and the environment. This journey is only possible with you. Your continued support—whether through membership, donations, or simply sharing our mission—ensures we can keep building a stronger, more resilient Abaco for the future. Together, we can carry forward the lessons of the past six years and turn them into lasting progress for our community and environment. Olivia Patterson Maura Executive Director

Island Autumn - PC Desktop Wallpaper

 

"Island Autumn" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

 Download full size: 5376x3072

"Island Autumn" - Bahamas AI Art
 ©A. Derek Catalano
 
 Download full size: 5376x3072

Calypso Dancers

 

"Calypso Dancers" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

FREE download

Conga Scrape

 

 Conga Scrape - ©A. Derek Catalano

 

Here's a beat I created 20 years ago. It was originally a MIDI file but I finally got around to converting it to a WAV file which was needed for my video editor. Enjoy.

 

Related music: I Don't Like Rum

The Benefits of Sitting by the Sea and Breathing in Salt Sea Air

 

"Pink Sands Beach, Harbour Island" - ©A. Derek Catalano

 

 

The Benefits of Sitting by the Sea and Breathing in Salt Sea Air

Sitting by the sea and breathing in the salt-rich air offers a variety of benefits for both your physical and mental well-being. This is a practice that has been recognized for centuries, and many of the reported benefits are supported by a growing body of scientific research.

Change Starts With You

 

 "Change Starts With You" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

 

 Change Starts With You

 

You want to see a world reborn,
A future bright, a brand new morn?
You whisper pleas to a deaf sky,
And wonder why the years drift by,
With chaos coiled in every street,
A bitter taste on every sweet.
You see the shadow of the past,
A silent chill, a die that's cast.

But look within, and see the truth,
Beyond the wisdom of your youth.
The change you crave, the light you seek,
Is not for others, frail and weak.
It’s not a banner held so high,
That others follow, and then die.
It’s not a whisper in the wind,
A wish that's lost, a dream unpinned.

It starts with you, a quiet choice,
A single action, a silent voice.
The kindness shown, a gentle word,
A truth that's spoken, a prayer unheard.
It’s in the litter that you pick,
The broken branches that you stick
Back in the earth, to heal and grow,
A simple act, a tiny sow.

Moonlight Vacation

 

"Moonlight Vacation" - Bahamas AI Art

 ©A. Derek Catalano

 

View my Tropic Gallery