My daughter Jamie Lee(L), grandaughter Robin(center) and Robin's BFF Pyper(R),
enjoying themselves at the 4th of July US Independence Day
celebrations in Harbour Is., The Bahamas.
Related article: Creativity and Culture Event at Montague Beach
Monday, July 7, 2025
Sunday, July 6, 2025
St. Agnes Anglican Church
St. Agnes Anglican Church
Baillou Hill Rd.,Nassau, Bahamas
©A. Derek Catalano
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St. Agnes Anglican Church with a touch of our National Colors to celebrate our upcoming Independence Day on July 10th. I was driving past and the sun was hitting the church just right. Pulled over and got a few quick shots.
St. Agnes Anglican Church 180th Year Celebration Sign
Baillou Hill Rd.,Nassau, Bahamas
Baillou Hill Rd.,Nassau, Bahamas
Saturday, July 5, 2025
The Power of Belief
"Power of Belief" - Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
This essay explores the concept of belief, its impact on individual achievement and resilience, and its role in shaping societies. It also touches upon the subjective nature of reality as influenced by belief.
The Power of Belief
Belief, at its core, is the acceptance of something as true or real, often without concrete proof. It is a fundamental aspect of the human psyche, shaping our perceptions, influencing our actions, and ultimately defining our reality. Far from being a mere passive acceptance, belief possesses an extraordinary, almost alchemical, power to transform individuals, societies, and even the course of history. From the quiet conviction of a single person to the shared dogma of a civilization, belief acts as a potent catalyst, driving innovation, fostering resilience, and occasionally, leading to profound folly. Understanding its multifaceted influence is key to unlocking human potential and navigating the complexities of the world.
Thursday, July 3, 2025
The Night the Crabs Attacked
"Killer Bat-Crab" _ Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
The Night the Crabs Attacked
Prelude
The creeks and ponds of Andros island in The Bahamas are the habitats of the land crabs that live there, which are caught and sold as a source of income for many of the Adrosian islanders.
But toxic fluids from experiments at a secret US Military Investigation Laboratory Base, had unknowingly been leaking into the creeks and ponds and the crabs were drinking it.
Wednesday, July 2, 2025
Be a Role Model
"Role Model" - Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
Be a Role Model
The world, a stage where every soul takes flight,
Looks up, looks out, for guiding stars of light.
Not born of fame, nor etched in marble grand,
But in the quiet kindness of a helping hand.
To be a role model is a sacred trust,
A living lesson, built on what is just.
It's not a crown, nor power to command,
But seeds of goodness scattered through the land.
It starts within, a spirit strong and true,
With values firm, in all you say and do.
Integrity, a compass in your breast,
Guiding your choices, putting truth to test.
Tropic Shore - PC Desktop Wallpaper
Abandoned Hummingbird Nest
"Abandoned Hummingbird Nest" - ©A. Derek Catalano
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"Abandoned Hummingbird Nest" - ©A. Derek Catalano
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Tuesday, July 1, 2025
Go Tell It on the Mountain
I just had to share this. A mighty powerful gem of a movie.
Go Tell It on the Mountain
Starring: Paul Winfield, James Bond 3rd, Olivia Cole
Drama - 1hr. 36 mins. - IMDB
This film adaptation of James Baldwin's celebrated novel tells the journey of a family from the rural South to "big city" Harlem seeking both salvation and understanding and of a young boy struggling to earn the approval of a self-righteous and often unloving stepfather.
My rating: 7/10
Alcohol: The Silent Killer of Inspiration, Motivation, and Community
"The Silent Killer" - Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
Alcohol: The Silent Killer of Inspiration, Motivation, and Community
Alcohol is deeply embedded in many cultures. It is present at celebrations, rites of passage, holidays, and even business deals. It’s marketed as a gateway to fun, relaxation, and connection. But behind this glamorized facade is a substance that has quietly but profoundly devastated lives, stripped people of their drive, and hollowed out entire communities. Alcohol doesn’t just damage health — it kills inspiration, erodes motivation, and fractures the social fabric that holds communities together.
Monday, June 30, 2025
Mangoes Ripening on Tree
"Mangoes Ripening on Tree" - ©A. Derek Catalano
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Related video: Loaded Mango Tree
Related photo: Got Mangos?
Related Photo: Mangras Comin'!
Sunday, June 29, 2025
Be Thankful for the Small Things
"Thankful for Small Things" - Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
Be Thankful for the Small Things
The sun's first kiss upon your sleepy face,
A gentle warmth, a whisper of grace.
The morning coffee, steaming, dark, and deep,
A quiet moment, secrets it will keep.
Be thankful for the small things, soft and true,
The everyday wonders, waiting just for you.
The bird's sweet song, a melody so clear,
Dispelling shadows, banishing all fear.
The rustling leaves, a whisper in the breeze,
The ancient language of the towering trees.
Be thankful for the small things, freely given,
Little blessings, sent to us from heaven.
A friendly smile, a nod from passing by,
A shared connection 'neath a boundless sky.
The warmth of touch, a hand within your own,
A seed of kindness, beautifully sown.
Be thankful for the small things, light and fleet,
The simple moments, wonderfully sweet.
Day Break at Potters Cay
Day Break at Potters Cay - Video - ©A. Derek Catalano
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Day Break at Potters Cay 1 - ©A. Derek Catalano
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Day Break at Potters Cay 1 HD Wallpaper - ©A. Derek Catalano
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Day Break at Potters Cay 2 - ©A. Derek Catalano
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Day Break at Potters Cay 2 HD Wallpaper - ©A. Derek Catalano
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Saturday, June 28, 2025
Shop the Sea - Creativity and Culture Event at Montague Beach
Me, Chris and Caleb - ©A. Derek Catalano
Me, my son Chris and my grandson Caleb attended the Shop the Sea - Creativity and Culture Event, Sat. June 28th, 2025 at Montague Beach and Park, Nassau, Bahamas. Chris was working the event shooting photos and invited me to come along. Caleb and I had a real fun time together exploring and enjoying it all. It was a good excuse for me go outside too. 😊
Friday, June 27, 2025
Thursday, June 26, 2025
Think Before You Act
"Face Off" - Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
Think Before You Act
The world it spins, a rapid pace,
With choices given, time and space.
A hurried word, a swift retort,
Can leave a wound, or cut things short.
For impulse often takes the lead,
And plants a most unwelcome seed.
A thought unexamined, sharp and quick,
Can cause a sorrow, make you sick.
Consider well, before you leap,
The promises you sow and reap.
Each action taken, small or grand,
Leaves footprints on the shifting sand.
Will kindness bloom, or anger flare?
Will bridges mend, or rip and tear?
The power's yours, a potent key,
To shape the person you will be.
When tempers rise, and passions burn,
A moment's pause, a vital turn.
Breathe deep, allow the heat to cool,
Before you break a sacred rule.
For words once spoken, deeds once done,
Cannot be easily outrun.
They linger long, a whispered trace,
And etch themselves upon your face.
Antique Tropic Seascape Oil Paintings
"Antique Tropic Seascape Oil Painting" - Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
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"Antique Tropic Seascape Oil Painting" - Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
Download full size: 1312x736
©A. Derek Catalano
Download full size: 1312x736
Wednesday, June 25, 2025
Crown Land in The Bahamas: A Comprehensive Report
"Beachfront Property" - Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
Crown Land in The Bahamas: A Comprehensive Report
Crown Land, often referred to as public land, represents a significant portion of the landmass in The Bahamas. It is a territorial area owned by the state (the government) and held in trust for the beneficial interest of the Bahamian people. Its management and distribution have long been central to the nation's economic, social, and political landscape.
Poinciana Lighthouse - PC Wallpaper
"Poinciana Lighthouse" - Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
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Related article: Lighthouses of the Bahamas
Tuesday, June 24, 2025
Everything Has Its Place
"The Cosmos" - Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
Everything Has Its Place
The cosmos spins, a grand design,
Where every star and planet shine,
In orbits vast, a silent grace,
Affirming, "Everything has its place."
From quark to quasar, atom's hum,
To galaxies where light has come,
Each particle, a tiny trace,
All fitted in its proper space.
The mountain range, a rugged might,
Holds strata deep, from ancient light,
Each layer tells a timeless tale,
Of forces strong, that never fail.
The river carves its winding line,
Through canyon walls, a grand design,
And in its current, cool and deep,
The pebbles rest, the secrets sleep.
Monday, June 23, 2025
The Stray Dog Problem in the Bahamas
"Stray Potcake" - Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
The Stray Dog Problem in the Bahamas
1. Scope & Scale
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Estimated numbers: On New Providence alone, there are roughly 20,000 stray dogs, with a comparable number of cats. BHS notes as many as 30,000 dogs are present on the island.
2. Breed Focus – The Potcake Dog
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“Potcake” dogs: A mixed-breed indigenous to the region, named after leftovers from local meals. They range widely in appearance due to years of mixed ancestry.
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Students and tourists frequently encounter them – one report said 45 % of tourists see roaming dogs, with a small percentage feeling unsafe.
3. Root Causes
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Unregulated breeding and backyard operations: Owner neglect, backyard breeding, and abandonment contribute heavily.
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Cultural/financial barriers: Misconceptions around neutering (e.g., “taking away pleasure”) deter many.
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Impact of disasters: Events like Hurricane Dorian displaced many dogs; owners fell on hard times due to the storm and COVID‑19, contributing to increased stray populations.
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Insufficient enforcement: Although cruelty laws exist, lack of enforcement and resources means arrests/citations are rare .
Shower of Gold
Shower of Gold Tree - Video
©A. Derek Catalano
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Shower of Gold Flowers - ©A. Derek Catalano
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Saturday, June 21, 2025
Most Advanced Country in Military Power and Why
"USA Military Power" - Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
Most Advanced Country in Military Power and Why
The United States is widely regarded as the most advanced country in military power. Here’s why:
1. Technological Superiority
- Advanced Weaponry: The U.S. military possesses state-of-the-art weapons systems, including hypersonic missiles, advanced fighter jets (e.g., F-35 Lightning II), stealth bombers (e.g., B-2 Spirit), and nuclear-powered aircraft carriers.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI): The Pentagon heavily invests in AI for autonomous drones, decision-making systems, and cybersecurity.
- Space Dominance: Through the U.S. Space Force, it secures superiority in satellite technology and space-based defense systems.
- Cybersecurity: Advanced capabilities in cyber warfare and defense, managed by U.S. Cyber Command.
Learn to Love Yourself
"Love Yourself" - Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
Learn to Love Yourself
The mirror shows a stranger's eyes,
Reflecting back what you despise.
A whispered doubt, a silent plea,
For someone else you wish to be.
The world, a stage of judging stares,
Compares your worth, and plants its snares.
Each flaw magnified, each virtue lost,
A silent battle, counting cost.
But listen close, a gentle hum,
A truth within, about to come.
Before the world can truly see,
The brilliance that resides in thee,
You must unearth, with tender hand,
The treasure buried in this land—
Your very self, flawed, grand, and deep,
The promises your spirit keeps.
For self-love isn't vanity's gleam,
Nor ego's loud, demanding dream.
It's quiet strength, a steady grace,
Accepting every time and place,
The curves, the lines, the scars you wear,
The burdens that your heart can bear.
It's knowing worth, beyond the gaze,
Through sunlit days and misty haze.
Friday, June 20, 2025
Orange Poinciana
Orange Poinciana - Video - ©A. Derek Catalano
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Orange Poinciana - ©A. Derek Catalano
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Thursday, June 19, 2025
Get a Good Education
"Get a Good Education" - Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
Get a Good Education
From sun-kissed shores, where turquoise waters gleam,
A future beckons, bright as any dream.
The Bahamas calls, its promise true and bold,
For tales of progress, waiting to unfold.
But how shall we build, this nation we hold dear?
With minds awakened, conquering every fear.
Get a good education, let this be our cry,
Reach for the knowledge, reaching for the sky.
The schoolhouse stands, a beacon in the day,
Where eager minds can truly find their way.
Each lesson learned, a stepping stone to climb,
To master subjects, conquering space and time.
The teacher's voice, a guide so clear and strong,
Unlocks the wisdom, where we all belong.
From mathematics, to history's grand sweep,
The seeds of greatness, in our young minds sleep.
So lean in close, absorb each whispered word,
Let every concept, truly be heard.
For good grades earned, are more than simple score,
They show the effort, that you've striven for.
A discipline built, a will to see it through,
The careful study, proving what you can do.
They open doors, to pathways yet unseen,
To higher learning, vibrant and serene.
A university's halls, a scholar's keen pursuit,
Bearing the promise, of bountiful, learned fruit.
So shun distraction, focus on the task,
Good grades in hand, behind no learned mask.
Bougainvillea Display
"Bougainvillea Display" - ©A. Derek Catalano
"Bougainvillea Display" - ©A. Derek Catalano
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Wednesday, June 18, 2025
The Scientific Inquiry into the Existence of Ghosts: An Empirical Review
"Is That You?" - Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
The Scientific Inquiry into the Existence of Ghosts: An Empirical Review
Executive Summary
This report critically examines the scientific and empirical evidence for the existence of ghosts. Despite widespread belief and centuries of anecdotal accounts, the overwhelming consensus within the mainstream scientific community is that there is no verifiable proof of ghosts. Claims of paranormal phenomena, including ghosts, consistently fail to meet the rigorous standards of scientific inquiry, particularly concerning falsifiability, repeatability, and control. Instead, experiences often attributed to ghosts are largely explained by natural phenomena, psychological factors, neurological conditions, or misinterpretations of sensory input. Parapsychology, the field dedicated to studying such phenomena, is widely considered a pseudoscience due to its inability to produce reproducible evidence and its methodological shortcomings.
Floppy Hibiscus
"Floppy Hibiscus" - ©A. Derek Catalano
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"Floppy Hibiscus" - ©A. Derek Catalano
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Tuesday, June 17, 2025
The Dangers and Damaging Effects of Plastics and Microplastics: A Focus on The Bahamas
"Plastic Bag Reef" - Bahamas AI Art
©A. Derek Catalano
The Dangers and Damaging Effects of Plastics and Microplastics: A Focus on The Bahamas
Executive Summary
Plastic pollution is one of the most pressing environmental issues worldwide, but its impact is especially acute in island nations like The Bahamas. With an economy rooted in tourism and fishing, The Bahamas faces a dual threat: ecological degradation and economic vulnerability. This report outlines the sources, pathways, and effects of plastics and microplastics, highlighting the specific challenges and consequences in the Bahamian context.
Plumbago Flowers
Plumbago Flowers - Video
©A. Derek Catalano
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Plumbago Flowers - ©A. Derek Catalano
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