Greening the Family Islands
Now with the duty exemption in affect on "solar systems", it may truly be the right time to revisit the topic of renewable energy. The technology is ripe for  the Bahamas and pricing on solar panels have dipped below $0.98/Watt for Major USA branded panels. Even system costs have dropped remarkably in the past year. Although the biggest breakthrough will be when "grid-tied" solar systems are approved within the Bahamas. Until then, "off-grid" solar is still a great option for outlying areas such as the Family Islands. A  "green" exposition is in the works for 2014 to bring a renewable energy demonstrations to the Family Islands. For more information visit Power 3 Technologies.

Sunshine or Snow?
It's a chilly 49 Degrees on a typical overcast winter day in the Emerald City of Seattle, Washington. I looked online at the weather forecast for the next several days  and  I noticed the icon is a little grey cloud with raindrops failing from the center. I guess that means another wet and chilly week ahead. Looking at the National Weather I see New York is in the 30's, Chicago is topping out at 39, Dallas shows 47 and showers and Minot, ND is hovering at 39. While I was glancing through the weather forecasts I couldn't help but notice portions of the Caribbean Islands are a balmy 81 degrees with a light breeze. I couldn't help but day dream for a moment. Wouldn't it be perfect to be walking on a white sandy beach in the Caribbean, soaking up the sunshine with a gentle ocean breeze through the palm trees. Then relaxing on a private balcony, enjoying a tropical dinner with family and friends with the beautiful backdrop of serene golden sunsets? Yeaaah! Lets Go!

Well not so fast! Where you spend your vacation and how much you spend on your Winter getaway can make all the difference in the world. Here's a suggestion that is guaranteed to make everyone happy. The young and the “young at heart” included. The Bahamas! The choices are endless . . . Paradise Island, Cat Island, San Salvador, Exuma, Freeport and the list goes on. Check out the main Visitors Website at www.Bahamas.com but don't forget the serene and often overlooked outer islands, foundly named the “family islands” by the locals. You can visit the Website devoted to the “family islands at http://www.myoutislands.com. Take a peek and let us know how much fun you had. Explore the Beaches, Para-sail, Scuba Dive, Snorkel, Paddle Boat, Swim, Boat, Fish, Dance, . . I think you're getting the idea.

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BAHAMAS STYLE!
Ragged Island, Bahamas is known for some of the most beautful beaches in the world. One picture reveals the majestic beauty that has been hidden for years. We invite you to come and experience the peaceful waters and scenic vistas of Ragged Island this year. Avalon Vacation Club has opened it's Interest List for Phase-I of the Avalon Vacation Club-Ragged Island, Bahamas which is due to open in late Jan 2010.

RAGGED ISLAND HOME COMING & REGATTA
Plans are coming together for a Home Coming and Regatta event for Ragged Island in JULY 2010. Mark your calendars.

HISTORY
Many years ago Ragged Island used to have quite a prosperous Salt Industry. The Salt ponds were opened on Ragged in the late 19th Century by Mr. Duncan Taylor – hence Duncan Town, the only settlement on Ragged Island up to now. However there are new developments planned on the island including Avalon Vacation Club and a new resort and Marina.


The Salt industry has dwindled there over the years but there are still vendors on the island that are actively marketing the native salt such as Mr. Percy Wilson and his Wife Mrs. Elma Wilson who package and market "Elma Wilson Native Island Salt". You may place an order by calling 242-361-0271.

Prior to the salt industry waining and before the Castro era in Cuba, Ragged Island had established a robust trade industry with that country.Trade was also carried on with Haiti which supplied Ragged Islanders and the Bahamas with mangos. Weather effects of Hurricane Donna in 1960 swept many roofs off local homes and left considerable land damage. Thankfully, now with advances in engineering and building systems such as ProTec(R) Concrete insulated Panels manufactured by T-Clear Corp. new developments planned by HDC Development Corp. will provide safer and very affordable homes for Ragged Island residents.

During the 1950-60's many inhabitants left Ragged Island and came to Nassau with the hope of finding a better life and more stable employment. Commercial fishing is still done on a small scale on the island with local fishermen marketing their catch to Nassau. The population presently, is estimated at 210 , of which 80 are adults. Despite the odds, we see a resurgence of development and renewal of Ragged Island. We envision new jobs, training, prosperity and growth as the benefits that will come with the new developments on Ragged Island.