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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