The Last Word

Defining Caymanian through so many different experiences

by Barrie Quappe
Host of "Newstalk", Rooster 101.9 FM

Friday, January 23, 2004

Everyone with a curiosity for things Caymanian has certainly had a plethora of opportunities to experience this recently due to the Quincentennial celebrations last year. 

When each district selected the name to go on their respective walls of honour, the goal of achieving this part was reached within the given year. Quite an achievement, and what a start. These activities, while some people would like to have seen additional or even other names on their wall, have stimulated discussion and therefore increased knowledge of our past.

Recently, we did a series called "Celebrate Our People" to briefly interview some of the people on their respective Wall of Honour. What a tapestry was revealed. 

We heard from Hubert Bodden on how the Spotts straight road was "surveyed" using conch shells. He and his brother stood in the bush, some distance apart and would blow the shell. If the sound did not reach directly, they had a formula of one blow to go to the left and two blows to the right etc.

We also heard how Nurse Dicia from North Side was the midwife to approximately seven generations, and how she nursed her own daughter back after a terrible childhood accident. 

Pastor Al Ebanks shared how his family is coping with the loss of their 18-year-old son, referring back to the values learned over time and several of the guests talked of the Christian influence on their lives. 

The stories were too numerous to recount here but suffice to say, this event once again furthered the efforts of defining Caymanian.

Feedback on the show from expatriate workers has included comments like "Gosh, I didn't realise things had changed so fast on your island, now I understand more…"

I hope more people understand.

Contact Barrie Quappe “Newstalk” radio show, Rooster 101.9FM. E-mail barriequappe@hurleysgroup.com  

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