Friday, June 13, 2025
Thursday, June 12, 2025
The Beginning of the End: The Funk Pioneers of The Bahamas
The Beginning of the End - Funky Nassau album cover 1971
The Beginning of the End: The Funk Pioneers of The Bahamas
Introduction
In the pantheon of Caribbean music, reggae, calypso, and soca have long held dominant positions. However, nestled within the sonic shores of The Bahamas, a unique blend of soul, funk, and island rhythm gave rise to a sound that captivated both local and international audiences in the 1970s. At the heart of this innovation stood The Beginning of the End, a Bahamian funk band formed in 1969, whose energetic grooves and powerful instrumentation brought them a brief but impactful prominence in the global music scene. With their breakout hit "Funky Nassau", they not only carved a space for themselves in music history but also contributed to expanding the possibilities of Caribbean musical identity. This essay provides an in-depth, factual, and comprehensive look at The Beginning of the End—their origins, music, influence, and legacy.
Island Home - PC Wallpaper
Wednesday, June 11, 2025
Always Plan Ahead
"Unexpected Weather" - Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
Always Plan Ahead
The morning sun, a painter's golden stroke,
Awakens slumber, whispers, gently spoke.
A brand new day, a canvas fresh and wide,
But how you paint it, where your steps will glide,
Depends not just on whims of present light,
But seeds you've sown throughout the fading night.
For life's a journey, winding, steep, and long,
And he who plans, will always be made strong.
The farmer knows this truth, with calloused hand,
He doesn't wait for sprouts across the land.
He tests the soil, predicts the coming rain,
Prepares the furrows, eases every pain
Of barren earth, before the seed is cast,
Knowing full well, the season flies so fast.
He measures, calculates, with practiced eye,
And trusts the future, ripening 'neath the sky.
So too must we, with foresight clear and deep,
Before the promises we sow, we reap.
Consider journeys, far beyond the shore,
A captain charting seas unseen before.
No vessel sails on hope alone, adrift,
Without a compass, or a timely gift
Of plotted course, of currents understood,
Of shelters found, for when the tempest brewed.
He checks the charts, the tide, the shifting breeze,
Avoiding reefs, and treacherous, dark seas.
The port he seeks, is anchored in his mind,
A destination, carefully defined.
And so, we navigate our earthly way,
By plans laid out, for every coming day.
Tuesday, June 10, 2025
An Alarming Crisis: Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Minors in The Bahamas Driven by Maternal Involvement
"Exploitation" - Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
An Alarming Crisis: Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Minors in The Bahamas Driven by Maternal Involvement
Officials in The Bahamas have expressed grave concern over an "alarming increase" in the commercial sexual exploitation of minors, particularly highlighting the deeply disturbing trend of mothers prostituting their own female children to meet financial obligations. This report will expound on this critical issue, exploring its complex underlying causes, devastating impacts, and potential strategies for mitigation.
Defuse the Situation
"Defuse the Situation" - Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
Defuse the Situation
A tempest brews, a lightning flash,
Two wills collide, a sudden crash.
Voices rise, a heated fray,
As reason threatens to give way.
But in this storm, a guiding star,
A whispered plea, however far,
To “Defuse the Situation” now,
And soothe the furrowed, angry brow.
First, breathe, dear soul, let impulse cease,
Invite within a quiet peace.
Though anger sparks, and tensions mount,
Let not your passions freely fount.
For words unbridled, sharp and keen,
Can cut and wound, unseen, unheard, unseen.
So speak with calm, a steady tone,
A gentle breeze, on seeds of reason sown.
Respect the other, though they rage,
And turn a new, untroubled page.
Their pain, their fear, their point of view,
May hold a truth, both deep and true.
A listening ear, a softened gaze,
Can part the clouds of stormy days.
“I hear your words,” let stillness say,
“Though disagree, I will not stray
From courtesy’s unyielding might,
To dim the darkness, bring the light.”
Two wills collide, a sudden crash.
Voices rise, a heated fray,
As reason threatens to give way.
But in this storm, a guiding star,
A whispered plea, however far,
To “Defuse the Situation” now,
And soothe the furrowed, angry brow.
First, breathe, dear soul, let impulse cease,
Invite within a quiet peace.
Though anger sparks, and tensions mount,
Let not your passions freely fount.
For words unbridled, sharp and keen,
Can cut and wound, unseen, unheard, unseen.
So speak with calm, a steady tone,
A gentle breeze, on seeds of reason sown.
Respect the other, though they rage,
And turn a new, untroubled page.
Their pain, their fear, their point of view,
May hold a truth, both deep and true.
A listening ear, a softened gaze,
Can part the clouds of stormy days.
“I hear your words,” let stillness say,
“Though disagree, I will not stray
From courtesy’s unyielding might,
To dim the darkness, bring the light.”
Martello Tower with Poinciana
"Martello Tower with Poinciana" - Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
Download full size: 3328x4608
Martello towers are small, coastal fortresses built by the British during the 19th century, mainly as part of a defense scheme against potential invasion by France and later, the United States. Inspired by a fort at Mortella Point in Corsica, they were designed to offer strong coastal defenses. - Gemini
Sunday, June 8, 2025
Whit Monday: A Lingering Echo of Pentecostal Joy
"Dove of Peace" - Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
Whit Monday: A Lingering Echo of Pentecostal Joy
Whit Monday, also known as Pentecost Monday or the Monday of the Holy Spirit, is a Christian holiday celebrated the day after Pentecost. While its observance as a public holiday has diminished in some parts of the world, particularly in the United Kingdom and the United States, it remains a significant cultural and religious occasion in many European countries and former colonies. Deeper than a mere day off, Whit Monday embodies a rich history rooted in the foundational events of Christianity, marked by the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the birth of the Church. Its traditions, though varied across regions, consistently reflect themes of renewal, community, and the enduring presence of the divine.
Saturday, June 7, 2025
The Paradox of Piety: Teen Pregnancy and Illegitimacy in The Bahamas
"Newborn" - Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
The Paradox of Piety: Teen Pregnancy and Illegitimacy in The Bahamas
The Commonwealth of The Bahamas proudly identifies as a Christian nation, with a strong emphasis on traditional family values and moral rectitude. Yet, beneath this veneer of piety, persistent social challenges like high rates of teen pregnancy and illegitimate births paint a more complex picture, suggesting a profound disconnect between espoused ideals and lived realities. This essay will delve into the statistics, explore the multifaceted causes, and propose comprehensive mitigation strategies to address these deeply ingrained issues, which impact the social fabric, economic development, and overall well-being of the nation.
Thursday, June 5, 2025
The Life of Sir Randol Fawkes and the History of the Labour Day Movement in The Bahamas
Sir Randol Fawkes
Father of Labour in The Bahamas
Father of Labour in The Bahamas
The Life of Sir Randol Fawkes and the History of the Labour Day Movement in The Bahamas
Introduction
Labour Day in The Bahamas is a significant event that symbolizes the achievements and struggles of the working class. This day is also a tribute to Sir Randol Fawkes, a pivotal figure in Bahamian labor history. Known as the "Father of Labour" in The Bahamas, Sir Randol Fawkes' contributions were instrumental in shaping the labor movement and securing workers' rights.
Wednesday, June 4, 2025
The Silent Takeover: How the Two-Turntable DJ Machine Revolutionized and Ultimately Displaced the Nightclub Band in The Bahamas
"DJ Mix-Master Money" - Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
The Silent Takeover: How the Two-Turntable DJ Machine Revolutionized and Ultimately Displaced the Nightclub Band in The Bahamas
For decades, the pulsating heart of Bahamian nightlife was the live band. From the vibrant hotels of Cable Beach to the intimate clubs of downtown Nassau, the sounds of Junkanoo rhythms, calypso, R&B, and pop, expertly performed by local musicians, were synonymous with an evening out. The energy was palpable: the collective improvisation, the dynamic stage presence, and the direct interaction between musicians and audience created an unforgettable experience.
However, a technological and economic shift, spearheaded by the humble two-turntable DJ machine, gradually eroded this tradition, leading to the near extinction of the nightclub band in The Bahamas. This report will delve into the multifaceted reasons behind this decline, examining the inherent challenges of maintaining a live band and the undeniable economic advantages offered by a single DJ.
Tuesday, June 3, 2025
Limbo: Origins and Evolution in The Bahamas
"Limbo Dancer" - Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
Limbo: Origins and Evolution in The Bahamas
While widely associated with the Caribbean, the origins of limbo dancing, and its specific evolution into nightclub floor shows in The Bahamas, represent a fascinating blend of ancient African traditions and modern entertainment. This essay will delve into the deep roots of limbo, tracing its ceremonial beginnings, its migration and transformation in the West Indies, and its eventual popularization as a staple of Bahamian tourism and nightlife.
Mountain Lake - PC Wallpaper
Monday, June 2, 2025
Don't Beat Me Like Conch
"Conch Meat" - Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
Don't Beat Me Like Conch
From turquoise depths, a treasure drawn,
The conch, a life, a Bahamian dawn.
Its spiraled house, a pearly throne,
Yet on the block, it makes its moan.
The hammer falls, a rhythmic dread,
To break the will, the flesh to spread.
A culinary rite, they say it's best,
To pound it thin, put chew to test.
Don't beat me like conch, I cry,
Beneath a searing, endless sky.
The wooden mallet, scarred and old,
A story of the sea, I'm told.
Each strike a shock, a muscle's tear,
Transforming strength to tender fare.
Soaked in lime, with peppers bright,
A delicacy, a pure delight.
But when the hand that wields the blow
Belongs to those who ought to know
The people's heart, its fragile trust,
And grinds our hopes into the dust,
Don't beat me like conch, I plead,
Don't sow that bitter, bruising seed.
They mount the podium, voices ring,
Of prosperous days the songs they sing.
With honeyed words and practiced smile,
They charm the trusting for a while.
A litany of vows proclaimed,
Our future bright, meticulously framed.
Then deals are struck in shadowed rooms,
As silent hopes become our tombs.
The promises, like shells, are cracked,
Integrity is what they've lacked.
The truth submerged, the waters riled,
A nation's spirit is defiled.
Don't beat me like conch, I shout,
Let honesty at last break out!
The Dancing Flames: Origins and History of Fire Dancing in The Bahamas
"Fire Dancer" - Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
The Dancing Flames: Origins and History of Fire Dancing in The Bahamas
Fire, an element of primal power and captivating beauty, has held a significant place in human culture across the globe. From ancient rituals to modern entertainment, the manipulation of flames has manifested in various art forms, among them the mesmerizing spectacle of fire dancing. In The Bahamas, fire dancing possesses a unique history, intertwining African roots, indigenous practices, and the evolution of the tourism and entertainment industries. This essay will delve into the origins of fire-related performances in the archipelago, trace its historical trajectory, and explore its presence in contemporary Bahamian nightclub floor shows.
Saturday, May 31, 2025
The Golden Era of Nightclubs and Nightclub Entertainment in The Bahamas
"Golden Era Nightclub" - Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
The Golden Era of Nightclubs and Nightclub Entertainment in The Bahamas
Introduction
From the 1930s to the early 1970s, The Bahamas enjoyed a dazzling era of glamour, live music, and nightlife unlike anything else in the region. Often referred to as The Golden Era of Nightclubs, this period transformed the Bahamian capital of Nassau — and, to a lesser extent, Freeport — into hubs for celebrities, jazz legends, socialites, mobsters, and curious tourists. These decades saw an explosion of entertainment venues where local talent and international stars mingled, giving rise to an unforgettable cultural moment. Today, that legacy lingers in memory and myth, but its real impact on Bahamian identity, tourism, and music remains profound.
Friday, May 30, 2025
Dundas-UNESCO Summer Theatre Intensive!
Courtesy of the UNESCO International Fund for Cultural Diversity
2025 Summer Theatre Intensive
June 16-August 2, 2025
Professionalizing the Theatre Industry in The Bahamas
Professionalizing the Theatre Industry in The Bahamas
Liz on Fence Cover
Liz on Fence Cover - ©A. Derek Catalano
There are others in my gallery. Just search "lizard".
Thursday, May 29, 2025
Dundas Dollar Day
The Dundas is under renovation!!
The Dundas Centre for the Performing Arts
Help keep it going!
Support our Dollar Day!!
Support our Dollar Day!!
We’re on our way!!
Visit: https://www.dundascentre.org
The Night Before
The Night Before
Lies, Deception, Manipulation and perhaps......... MURDER
Don’t miss the NEW DATES for “The Night Before” by S.L. Sheppard
at the Regency Theatre - May 30th and 31st.
Contact on Facebook
Report: Mysterious Animal and Cattle Mutilations
"Beam Up" - Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
Report: Mysterious Animal and Cattle Mutilations
Introduction
Animal and cattle mutilations have captured the public's imagination and alarmed rural communities for decades. These unexplained, gruesome events often involve the discovery of animals—typically livestock—found with precise, surgical-like cuts, often missing organs, and exhibiting signs of unusual or ritualistic handling. While some suspect human perpetrators, others believe the mutilations could have extraterrestrial, paranormal, or scientific explanations.
This report provides an in-depth look into the phenomenon of mysterious animal and cattle mutilations. It traces the history of the occurrences, explores notable cases, discusses the characteristics and details commonly associated with these mutilations, examines the findings and proposed explanations, and explores whether there have been similar incidents reported in the Bahamas.
To the Beach - PC Wallpapers
Wednesday, May 28, 2025
Bahamas 2025/2026 Budget Review by AI
The Islands of The Bahamas
Bahamas 2025/2026 Budget Review by AI
The 2025/26 Bahamas budget, as presented by Prime Minister Philip Davis, marks a significant milestone with the country's first budget surplus since independence. This achievement underscores a commitment to fiscal discipline while aiming to stimulate economic growth and social development.
Key Highlights:
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Fiscal Surplus: The government projects a surplus, signaling a shift from previous deficits and indicating improved fiscal management.
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Economic Growth: Investments are planned to stimulate private sector growth, particularly in the Family Islands, and to modernize government services for better efficiency.
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Social Investments: Allocations are made for critical sectors such as education, healthcare, national security, and environmental protection, aiming to enhance the well-being of citizens.
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Infrastructure Development: Funds are designated to strengthen public infrastructure across the archipelago, which is vital for economic development and resilience.
Considerations:
While the budget outlines ambitious plans, the success of these initiatives will depend on effective implementation and continued fiscal prudence. Monitoring and evaluation mechanisms will be essential to ensure that the projected surplus translates into tangible benefits for the Bahamian people.
Overall, the 2025/26 budget reflects a strategic approach to balancing fiscal responsibility with the need for economic and social development.
Read full budget presentation.
Manage Your Money Well
"Money Management" - Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
Manage Your Money Well
A Comprehensive Poem About Financial Wisdom
Money’s a servant, never a king,
Treat it as such or chaos it’ll bring.
It slips through fingers smooth as rain,
But held with care, it multiplies gain.
Tuesday, May 27, 2025
Tropical Fruit Salad Quad
"Tropical Fruit Salad Quad"
©A. Derek Catalano
Not a filter. Made from scratch in Adobe PS.
Rising Sea Levels: A Major Threat to The Bahama Islands
"Rising Sea" - Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
Rising Sea Levels: A Major Threat to The Bahama Islands
Introduction
The Bahama Islands, a sprawling archipelago of over 700 islands and cays in the Atlantic Ocean, sit just a few meters above sea level. Their low-lying nature, combined with their dependence on coastal ecosystems, makes them acutely vulnerable to the impacts of climate change—chief among them, rising sea levels. As polar ice melts and ocean temperatures rise, sea levels are climbing at an accelerating pace, threatening to reshape or even erase entire communities in The Bahamas. This essay provides an in-depth examination of how rising sea levels pose a severe and growing threat to the Bahama Islands, analyzing the causes, the direct and cascading impacts, and the urgent need for adaptation and mitigation strategies.
Monday, May 26, 2025
Summer House - PC Wallpapers
Sunday, May 25, 2025
Secrecy, Trade Deal Secrecy, and Financial Secrecy in Governments: A Danger and Threat to an Open Democracy
"Deal" - Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
Secrecy, Trade Deal Secrecy, and Financial Secrecy in Governments: A Danger and Threat to an Open Democracy
Introduction
Democracy thrives on transparency, accountability, and informed citizen participation. These are not optional features—they are structural necessities. Without them, democracy risks becoming a hollow performance rather than a system of genuine public power. However, in modern governance, secrecy—especially in the areas of trade deals and financial decision-making—has become normalized. Governments often cloak key negotiations and fiscal operations behind closed doors, claiming national interest or economic strategy as justification. But this secrecy, when left unchecked, undermines democratic institutions, concentrates power, and erodes public trust.
This essay explores the dynamics of government secrecy in the domains of trade deals and financial operations. It examines how such secrecy operates, why it persists, and how it threatens the integrity of open democratic societies. It also considers real-world cases, analyzes the structural enablers of secrecy, and outlines ways in which democracies can confront and curb this growing threat.
Friday, May 23, 2025
Tropic Art Gallery - PC Wallpaper
Thursday, May 22, 2025
The Problem of Derelict Vehicles and Roadside Mechanics in The Bahamas: Causes, Consequences, and Solutions
"Derelict Roadside Vehicle" - Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
The Problem of Derelict Vehicles and Roadside Mechanics in The Bahamas: Causes, Consequences, and Solutions
Introduction
The presence of derelict vehicles and unregulated roadside mechanics is a growing concern across The Bahamas, especially in densely populated areas such as Nassau and Freeport. Abandoned vehicles—rusting shells left on roadsides, in vacant lots, or even on sidewalks—are more than just an eyesore. Coupled with informal auto repair operations springing up in residential and commercial zones, these issues affect public health, safety, the environment, and the overall urban landscape. This essay explores the roots of this multifaceted problem, the risks it poses, and practical solutions that could bring order, efficiency, and safety to Bahamian streets.
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