Report on Campaign Finance Reform in The Bahamas

"Parliament Square" - ©A. Derek Catalano

Report on Campaign Finance Reform in The Bahamas

Introduction

Campaign finance reform is a critical aspect of maintaining democratic integrity by ensuring that the political process is transparent, equitable, and free from corruption. In The Bahamas, the issue of campaign finance reform has been a point of concern for years. The lack of regulations governing political donations, spending, and transparency has led to increasing calls for reform. This report provides an in-depth analysis of the current state of campaign finance in The Bahamas, explores the need for reform, evaluates international standards and practices, and offers recommendations for effective policy changes.

The Perils of Poor Prioritizing

 

"Broke and Fretting" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

The Perils of Poor Prioritizing

Prioritizing's the name of the game,
Without it, life's a circus—what a shame!
First things first, like bills and rent,
Before your cash on pleasures is spent.

You wanted that weave, those lashes, those nails,
So you blew the light bill money and tipped the scales.
Now you're sittin' in darkness, TV shows can't get,
And it's 90 degrees, no A/C or fan, just sweat.

The water bill money, you spinned and gambled away,
Thought you'd strike it rich, but lost all in a day.
Now you can't bathe, or flush, or clean,
Living a life that's anything but serene.

Sci-Fi Junkanoo

 

"Sci-Fi Junkanoo Dancer" - Bahamas AI art
©A. Derek Catalano

"Sci-Fi Junkanoo Dancer" - Bahamas AI art
©A. Derek Catalano

Unicorn Romance - PC Wallpaper

 

"Unicorn Romance" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

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Island Sheep Farm

 

"Island Sheep Farm" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

"Island Sheep Farm" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

Zyephris - PC Wallpaper

 

"Zyephris" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

 

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"Zyephris" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

 

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Pinewood Gardens: A Waterlogged Nightmare and Potential Solutions

"Flooded Island Neigborhood" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

Pinewood Gardens: A Waterlogged Nightmare and Potential Solutions

 

Introduction: The Origins of Pinewood Gardens

Pinewood Gardens, located in New Providence, Bahamas, is a residential community established in 1972 by Pinewood Gardens Ltd. It was purchased in liquidation in 1983 by Arawak Homes Ltd. Initially, it was developed to provide affordable housing for Bahamians, targeting middle- and lower-income families looking to invest in homeownership. At the time of its development, New Providence was experiencing significant growth, and many Bahamians sought to own land amidst the island’s expanding suburban landscape. Pinewood Gardens appeared to be an ideal solution—an area that would allow families to settle into homes away from the increasingly crowded capital of Nassau.

However, the development of Pinewood Gardens was not without controversy. Questions arose over the suitability of the land for residential purposes. Over the years, this community has faced persistent and severe flooding problems, exacerbating concerns about the land's conditions and whether it was ever appropriate for residential development in the first place.

Tropic Deck

 "Tropic Deck" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

"Tropic Deck" - Bahamas AI art
©A. Derek Catalano

Sci-Fi Junkanoo Dancer

 

"Sci-Fi Junkanoo Dancer" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

"Sci-Fi Junkanoo Dancer" - Bahamas AI art
©A. Derek Catalano

Into Soria V25 - PC Wallpaper

 

"Into Soria V25" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

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"The Island Imperial Hotel" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

 

Bahamian Hotel Ownership in The Bahamas

 

Introduction

Tourism is the heartbeat of The Bahamas, serving as the foundation of its economy and offering a tropical paradise to millions of visitors annually. With its pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and luxurious resorts, The Bahamas has long been a prime destination for global travelers. The hotel industry plays a pivotal role in supporting this influx, with hotels ranging from extravagant all-inclusive resorts to intimate boutique establishments.

However, while tourism thrives, there is an emerging need for more Bahamians to assume ownership roles within the hotel industry. The hospitality sector offers tremendous potential for economic empowerment, but many of the large hotels and resorts are foreign-owned. Encouraging and supporting more Bahamians to become hotel owners, especially on the Family Islands, is essential for fostering sustainable growth, ensuring that more profits remain within the country, and promoting authentic Bahamian experiences for visitors.

Tropic Vacation Get-Away

"Tropic Vacation Get-Away" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

 

"Tropic Vacation Get-Away" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

Sci-Fi Junkanoo Warrior

 

"Sci-Fi Junkanoo Warrior" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

 

 

"Sci-Fi Junkanoo Warrior" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

Journey To New Nassau

 

"Journey To New Nassau" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

"Beneath New Nassau" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

Animal Extinction: Worldwide and The Bahamas

 

"Flamingo and Iguana" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

 

 

 

Animal Extinction: Worldwide and The Bahamas

 

Introduction

Animal extinction has become a growing global concern as species across the world face increasing threats from human activities and environmental changes. From habitat loss and overexploitation to climate change and pollution, many factors contribute to the decline of wildlife populations. In regions like The Bahamas, several unique species are on the brink of extinction, reflecting the broader global biodiversity crisis. However, efforts to combat extinction are gaining momentum, with local and international initiatives focused on protecting habitats, restoring ecosystems, and enforcing regulations to safeguard vulnerable species. This report provides a comprehensive overview of the causes and solutions to the pressing issue of animal extinction, highlighting the importance of coordinated action for conservation and recovery.

Tropic Drone Fly-Over

 

"Cat Cay Cliff Cabanas" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

"San Juanito" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

Junkanoo Face Painting

 

"Junkanoo Face Painting" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

Journey To Plexsus

 

"Journey To Plexsus" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

The Last Stand of the Lucayan

 

 "Lucayan Warriors" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

 

The Last Stand of the Lucayan

 

Part 1: The Gathering Storm

The tropical sun hung low over the turquoise waters of the Lucayan archipelago, casting shimmering rays upon the white sandy shores. The island of Guanahani, home to the peaceful Lucayan people, basked in the warmth of the day, but a tense mood clung to the air. Whispers of war, of imminent invasion, had spread from village to village. Far to the south, the fierce Carib warriors, feared for their brutality and their practice of cannibalism, were stirring, ready to sail northward in their swift canoes.

Among the Lucayan people, no one was more respected than the warrior named Haobam. Tall, strong, and brave, Haobam was a leader among his people, known for his wisdom and unmatched skill in battle. His body, tanned from years of exposure to the sun, bore the scars of past battles, each mark a testament to his bravery. Despite the peace-loving nature of his people, Haobam had trained tirelessly with his warriors, knowing that the threat of the Carib was ever-present.

Sci-Fi Junkanoo Warrior

 

"Sci-Fi Junkanoo Warrior" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

"Sci-Fi Junkanoo Warrior" - Bahamas AI art
©A. Derek Catalano

Seagull Dunes - PC Wallpaper

 

"Seagull Dunes" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

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Age is Just a State of Mind

 "Happy Beach Swing" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

 

Age is Just a State of Mind

The years may come, the years may go,
But time’s a river with gentle flow.
It carries moments, sweet and kind,
Yet age is just a state of mind.

Wrinkles may trace upon the skin,
But youth still dances deep within.
In every laugh, in dreams we find,
That age is just a state of mind.

The silver hair, the slowing pace,
Can’t dim the light within your grace.
For wisdom blooms where hearts are kind,
And age remains a state of mind.

With every dawn, we rise anew,
The world is fresh in every hue.
Adventure calls, no ties to bind,
When age is just a state of mind.

Cliff Views

 

"Clifftop Seat" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

"Cliff Shore Settlement" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

Crafty Crustaceans

 

"Crafty Crustacean" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

"Crafty Crustacean" - Bahamas AI art
©A. Derek Catalano

Sci-Fi Beach - PC Wallpaper

 

"Sci-Fi Beach" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

 

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"Sci-Fi Beach" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

 

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Grammy Major, A Sweet Old Soul

 

 Our dear Grammy, Theresa Elizabeth Major

 from Roses, Long Is. - ©A. Derek Catalano

 

Grammy Major, A Sweet Old Soul

Our Grammy Major, a sweet old soul,
Gentle, loving, and a heart made of gold,
Yet she wouldn’t hesitate, to speak her mind,
To share her thoughts, so firm, yet kind.

Born in 1900, she saw times change,
From the simple ways to the modern range,
At sixteen, she left Roses, Long Island’s shore,
For Nassau’s streets, where she saw much more.

Dancers

 

"Dancer" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

"Dancer" - Bahamas AI art
©A. Derek Catalano

Sea Road Cottage

 

"Sea Road Cottage" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

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 "Bush Tea" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

 

Bush Medicine in The Bahamas

 

Introduction

Bush medicine, also known as herbal medicine or traditional medicine, has been an integral part of life in The Bahamas for centuries. It involves the use of indigenous plants and herbs to treat various ailments, a practice rooted in the deep cultural and historical heritage of the Caribbean. The Bahamas, with its rich biodiversity, is home to a vast array of plants that have been used for medicinal purposes long before the advent of modern medicine. This report provides an in-depth exploration of bush medicine in The Bahamas, examining its cultural significance, historical origins, and some of the various plants used in this traditional healing practice. Additionally, it will compare bush medicine to modern medical practices, investigate the claims of its efficacy in treating serious illnesses like cancer, and underscore the importance of preserving this knowledge for future generations.

Cliffside Shores

 

"Cliffside Shores" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

"Cliffside Shores" - Bahamas AI art
©A. Derek Catalano

March On Bahamaland

 

"March On Bahamaland" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

Santorini - PC Wallpaper

 

"Santorini" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

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"Santorini" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

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The Bahamian Rock Oven: A Culinary Tradition Rooted in History

 

 "Tending the Rock Oven" - Bahamas AI art

©A. Derek Catalano

 

The Bahamian Rock Oven: A Culinary Tradition Rooted in History

 

Introduction

The Caribbean and the Bahamas are regions rich in cultural heritage and culinary traditions, many of which are deeply intertwined with their histories. Among the most fascinating and lesser-known aspects of this culinary heritage is the Bahamian rock oven, a traditional method of baking that has been passed down through generations. These rock ovens, often simple in design but remarkable in function, reflect the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the people who first settled in the islands. This article delves into the origins, construction, and uses of Bahamian rock ovens, explores how they are prepared and operated, and considers whether they still hold a place in Bahamian life today.

Saunders Beach, Nassau, Bahamas.

 

Saunders Beach, Nassau, Bahamas. - ©A. Derek Catalano

 

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