Express

BUXTON-FRIENDSHIP
Express
MAY 2014
RAFFLE DRAWING
Published by Buxton-Friendship Heritage Fund, Inc.
Remember to turn in your
Raffle stubs by June 15th to
secure your chance of winning any of the attractive
prizes in the Buxton Heritage
Notwithstanding its arrival with Labour Day (Guyana), May is the month
Fund Cash Raffle, drawing on
of
many celebrations. In Guyana, we also commemorated the 176 th anniverst
June 21 at the Summer Soisary of Indian Arrival Day on the 5th, while the entire nation marked the 48th
ree in Brooklyn.
anniversary of Independence Day on the 26th.
In the United States, we devoted special attention to Mothers on the secA book of three tickets is onond Sunday. And on the 26th, Memorial Day, we remembered our deceased
ly $5, and a limited supply is servicemen and women, especially those who died in active duty.
available to those who would
Around the world, the 20th anniversary of the United Nations-designated
like to purchase. Please refer “International Day of Families” was observed on the 15th. According to the
to pages 7 and 16 for contact UN, this “International Day provides an opportunity to promote awareness of issues relating to families and to increase knowledge of the social,
information.
economic and demographic processes affecting families”.
Next month, June we will celebrate Caribbean-American Month in the US.
MARVELLOUS MAY
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
Celebrating 90: Dr. R. Baird
Play Pan!
2
3
Class & Couture
Missionary Cause
4
6
Recent Donations
The Early Social Movement
7
8
All God’s Little Children
10
May Fair at Company Primary 11
QB Column: The ‘Velocitous’ Pro 12
Crumbling Community Centre 14
Parris: Coconut Oil-Part 2
Obituary & Transitions
16
18-19
Events Calendar
General Information
20
20
BFE14-5
Students of Company Road Primary School performing a Maypole dance. This was part of the school’s annual Mayfair, organized by its PTA.
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Page 2
BUXTON-FRIENDSHIP EXPRESS
Celebrating 90
Congratulations to Dr. Robert
Louis Stephenson Baird (Sonny)
on the occasion of his 90th birthday!
Dr. Baird was born in Buxton on 4th May,
1924 to legendary schoolmaster, the late
Robert Reuben (R.R.) Baird and his wife
Maude Beatrice Stephenson-Baird. So far,
he is said to be the only family member of
his generation to attain this milestone.
The young Robert Baird was awarded the
coveted Buxton Scholarship in the 1930’s,
and it took him to Queen’s College in
Georgetown. Following his graduation, he
left Guyana to attend Howard University in
Washington, DC. From there, he earned
the Bachelor of Science Degree and his
doctorate in Medicine (M.D.).
Dr. Baird practised as a Pediatrician at
Freedmen’s Hospital (now Howard University Medical Center) and at D.C. General
Hospital. He also engaged in private practice in the area for several years.
He is the eldest of seven children, all born
in Buxton, to his parents. One sister, Ella Pitt Baird, who also resides in the U.S., is the only other
surviving child of that union. The five siblings who have predeceased them were: Dr. Mona BairdBender, D.D.S (Dentistry); Felicia Baird, B.Sc. (Architecture); Lucille Baird, B.Sc. (Pre-Med); Cyril
Felix Baird, B.Sc. (Engineering); and Dr. Gordon Maldwyn Baird, M.D. (Medicine).
Dr. Robert L.S. Baird is married to Georgiana Snowden Baird. He is an active churchman and Elder at the People’s Congregational Church of Christ in Washington, DC. He also holds the honour
of being a veteran of the United States Navy.
Best wishes to Dr. Baird for continued good health. Happy Birthday!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Gwendoline Stephenson-Mitchell contributed to this story. Thanks to her!
MAY 2014
PLAY PAN!
Two officials of the Caribbean
Development
Bank (CDB)—Dr. William
Warren Smith (left),
President;
and
Ms.
Yvette
Seale,
VicePresident of Corporate
Services & Bank Secretary—playing pan with
the Buxton steel orchestra. The occasion was
the stellar opening ceremony for the new stateof-the-art nursery school
at Tuschen, East Bank
Essequibo on 27th May.
Vying For the Crown
They are the delegates for
the inaugural Ms. Buxton
Branch-Guyana Teachers’
Union (GTU) pageant. The
event was staged at the
Friendship Primary (Roman)
School auditorium and attracted almost 500 patrons.
In this photo, from left to
right, are: Donelle Phillips,
representing Bladen Hall
Multilateral School; Melissa
Chapman of New Friendship
Nursery; Lonetta Justice of
Lusignan Primary; Shonnette
Dey of Buxton Secondary;
and Tricia Davis of Annandale Primary.
Page 3
Page 4
BUXTON-FRIENDSHIP EXPRESS
Evening of Class & Couture
“Teachers
are not
only classroom
bound; they
can also
come into
the realm
of fashion”
Newly-crowned Queen, Teacher Donelle Phillips is seated on the throne and
beaming a radiant smile. She is flanked on her immediate right by Teacher
Shonnette Dey—first runner-up, and on her left by Teacher Tricia Davis –
second runner-up.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Buxton Branch of Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) held its inaugural pageant on Sunday, 25th May at Friendship Primary School’s auditorium. The
event, which attracted a capacity crowd, saw 19-year old Donelle Phillips of
Bladen Hall Multilateral School walk away with the crown.
Ms. Shonnette Dey of Buxton Secondary School was the first runner-up, while
Ms. Tricia Davis of Annandale Primary School finished as the second runnerup. The other delegates were Ms. Lonnetta Justice from Lusignan Primary and
Ms. Melissa Chapman from the New Friendship Nursery School.
(Continued on page 5)
MAY 2014
Page 5
CLASS & COUTURE
(Continued from page 4)
In an interview for this article, subsequent to the event, Sir Collis Nicholson,
president of the GTU branch and the pageant’s co-ordinator, described the event as
a first-class success. He defined the event
as an opportunity for teachers to show that
they are not restricted to the classroom for
the dissemination of knowledge, but that
they can also utilize other arenas to engage
the wider public by demonstrating more of
their talents.
All of the delegates advocated platforms
relevant to vital issues in education and
social life. This was designed to enlighten,
increase understanding and give guidance
on matters essential to student development and academic success.
1. Lonnetta Justice, representing
Lusignan Primary School, spoke on
CHILD EMOTIONAL ABUSE. She articulated the harmful effects this syndrome
can inflict on primary learners.
2. Melissa Chapman, representing the
New Friendship Nursery spelled out
the importance of NUTRITION in the development of nursery school children.
3. Shonnette Dey of Buxton Secondary
School addressed EMOTIONAL PROBLEMS affecting adolescents at the secondary level.
4. Tricia Davis from Annandale Primary
espoused the need for PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT in the academic performance of children.
5. Donelle Phillips, representing
Bladen Hall Multilateral School, covered GRADE RETENTION in secondary
school.
The five delegates competed in five categories, for which points were awarded.
These were:
The Professional Wear segment of Ms. Buxton-GTU 2014 Pageant
INTRODUCTION: SELF AND PLATFORM
CASUAL WEAR
TALENT PERFORMANCE
PROFESSIONAL ATTIRE
EVENING GOWN
At the conclusion of all five segments, the points
were tallied. The leading three delegates went forward
to the final round, where they underwent a QuestionAnswer session.
Ms. Donelle Phillips emerged as the overall winner
of the 2014 Ms. Buxton-GTU Branch Pageant and was
crowned Queen. She will go on to represent the district at the GTU’s national pageant, scheduled to be
held on 29th November at the Theatre Guild in
Georgetown.


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
Page 6
BUXTON-FRIENDSHIP EXPRESS
Missionary & Worthy Cause
In just under six months—
November, 2014, Arundel Congregational Church, better known as
“Missionary Church” among villagers, will celebrate its 170th anniversary. This is a milestone event, and
church officials are planning to commemorate the occasion in a fitting
way. The Buxton Heritage Fund
would like to urge all Buxtonians and
friends, regardless of religious affiliation, to support this event, as well as
efforts by this landmark institution in
our village to refurbish its hallowed
centre of worship.
The pioneer and relentless work in
the slavery abolition crusade by the
Congregational Church is well documented. Following Emancipation,
the Church established schools like
our former Buxton Congregational School, where
generations of villagers were educated. The Buxton
Battle Song, our village anthem, was penned and
put to song by the late Teacher Ivy Jacobs at this
school.
In 2010, when Buxton celebrated its 170th anniversary, Arundel Congregational Church went beyond
many expectations to host an interfaith service and
to erect a plaque, commemorating that historic
achievement. Its generous act has remained etched
in the minds of those who were fortunate to be part
of that glorious experience.
As we make plans to celebrate next year’s 175th
anniversary of the Purchase, villagers and friends
may already have their sights set on being part of a
repeat performance at Arundel Congregational
Church. Knowing how hospitable and gracious Reverend Paulette Hannibal and vestry members are,
they may be glad to play this important part again.
But, we are well aware that they need financial and
material help to complete necessary repairs at the
church. So we are appealing to villagers and friends
to consider making a charitable donation to help the
church body achieve its end in this worthy cause.
The list of outstanding projects shows Electrical
Work, Plumbing/Guttering, Fence Work, and Window Replacement. We, at Buxton Heritage Fund,
have chosen to help raise funds for the replacement of windows at this time. Please note, however, that this does not mean that we will not accept
donations for any of the other projects that someone may otherwise prefer to support.
There are 12 pairs of windows to be replaced at
an estimated cost of GY$60,000 (US$300) per
pair. Any amount that can be afforded will be
greatly appreciated.
Please make your cheque/money order payable
to:
BUXTON-FRIENDSHIP HERITAGE FUND, INC.
454 VERMONT STREET
BROOKLYN, NY 11207
USA
Buxton-Friendship Heritage Fund, Inc. is an IRS
recognized tax exempt charitable organization—
501(c)3. Your donation may be tax-deductible
within the law.
DONATE TODAY. DONATE GENEROUSLY!
MAY 2014
Page 7
Recent Donations
The Buxton-Friendship Heritage Fund would like to acknowledge receipt of generous donations received recently from villagers and supporters.
From Ms. Dian John of Washington, DC, we accepted a donation of $500
for Arundel Congregational Church’s (Missionary) renovation project.
From another donor, who requested his/her name not be stated, we
have accepted a contribution of $200 towards the upkeep of St. Augustine’s Anglican churchyard and cemetery.
We are also grateful for the generous donation received from Mrs. Jennifer Lee-Ninvalle of Brooklyn, NY. She is a beneficiary of the Buxton
Scholarship which aided her attendance at St. Joseph High School. Her
contribution will assist in purchasing learning materials and school supplies for new secondary school students.
Buxton-Friendship Heritage Fund continues to encourage villagers and
friends to donate towards community projects and needy causes. The
Fund is an IRS-recognized tax-exempt organisation, and donations received may be tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law. Please refer to the back (last) page for mailing information.
Buxton-Friendship Heritage Fund, Inc.
RAFFLE FOR EDUCATION






PROCEEDS TO FUND
PURCHASE OF LEARNING MATERIALS AND
TEST PREPARATION PROGRAMMES
STUDENT EMPOWERMENT WORKSHOPS
DEBATING & ESSAY WORKSHOPS
ACADEMIC RESOURCE CENTRES
EDUCATIONAL & CULTURAL TOURS
SCHOOL SUPPLIES
Drawing will take place at Summer Soiree
SATURDAY, JUNE 21, 2014
$1,000.00 CASH PRIZES
1st Prize: $500.00
2nd Prize: $250.00
3rd Prize: $125.00
4th Prize: $ 75.00
2 Consolation Prizes @$25
454 Vermont Street, Brooklyn, NY 11207
Book (3 tickets): $5 / Single Ticket: $2
Participants must be at least 18 years of age / Ticketholder need not be present at the drawing to win
PHONE: 718-342-0040
E-MAIL: BuxtonFund@aol.com
Page 8
BUXTON-FRIENDSHIP EXPRESS
EARLY SOCIAL MOVEMENT
By Nandi Tyrrell-Kellman
FOREWARD
Social Development aims at improving the social life of a community through organized activities which
provide learning and recreation. “Man is largely what society makes him…all adult behavior is learned
from the society. Society is a system of relationships which does not exist apart from the persons composing it”. It is therefore evident that a person is closely related to his social environment and as such it
is important to provide opportunities for personal enrichment and recreation.
The community of Buxton-Friendship was no different in its desire to provide such opportunities and
used largely interactive methods such as clubs and social meeting groups to provide growth in the areas
of education, religion/spirituality, morals, health and culture. It also provided the opportunity for fostering
understanding and tolerance for the varying personalities and opinions which make up a community.
In the following paragraphs the researcher takes us on a historical journey of the social development of
our beloved community and examines the threads which knit us together as a ‘village
faam’ly’.
Social development had its roots in the churches. These cultural influences took the form
of seasonal concerts, Old English plays, church choirs and dramatic societies. It must be
noted that because our ancestors lost most of their African culture to slavery (or had it
stifled), it was necessary for them to have a replacement and, obviously, it was what was
readily available. Thus, the early villagers (ex-slaves) had their standards of culture and
society set by the Vicar and his family, the Government Medical Officer (GMO) the Magistrate and the Immigration Agent. These were people of higher learning and social status
and, as such, the parishioners copied their speech, dress and manners.
ARUNDEL CONGREGATIONAL (MISSIONARY) CHURCH
In 1844, the wife of the Church’s Minister, Mrs. F. Henderson, started the first Bible Class in the village. Other
than religious teaching, the women were taught to sew, to care the sick and how to prepare special meals for
them. Later, the Christian Endeavour Society was formed; here, men were taught Public Speaking, irrespective of
their educational or social status. This afforded many men opportunities to progress in life. This church also established a Girl’s Guildry (or Girl’s Guides) under the leadership of Mrs. Matthews, wife of the Minister at that time, the
Rev. Pat Matthews. It was a uniformed organization which was affiliated to the headquarters in Jamaica and Scotland and received periodic visits from representatives. The girls were taught handicraft, first-aid, country dancing
and drama among other activities. The name was eventually changed to the Girl’s Club and was no longer uniformed.
Then came the Rev. W.H. Pollard during whose tenure there was a great cultural upsurge. Using the Young People’s Fellowship as an agency, he was able to raise the level of drama in the village. And being an ardent student
of science, he also held lectures on ‘Creation of Man’, challenging Darwin’s views on man’s evolution.
FRIENDSHIP METHODIST (WESLEYAN) CHURCH
This church had a Wesley Guild for young people and its activities included singing, games and concerts. The
Women’s Own, which was later changed to Women’s League, was formed in 1926 by Mrs. Giddings, wife of Rev.
Giddings. Members were involved in Bible-reading, community singing and Busy–Bee. They held Prayer Meetings
when there were visits from Ministers of the church. In order to raise funds to assist in the rebuilding of the church,
the group staged secular and sacred concerts and organized fairs, supper-parties and excursions.
(Continued on page 9)
MAY 2014
Page 9
SOCIAL MOVEMENT
(Continued from page 8)
ST. ANTHONY’S ROMAN CATHOLIC (ROMAN) CHURCH
The Catholic church had a Youth Club which was led by one Mr. Bridgemohan. Its members met every Friday, and
had planned activities such as religious instructions, games, socials and exchange visits with other Catholic Youth
Clubs.
ST. AUGUSTINE’S ANGLICAN (ENGLISH) CHURCH
It had two groups: The Girls’ Friendly Society (GFS) and St. Augustine’s Mothers’ Union. GFS, which met every Friday afternoon, was for young girls of the church and was a branch of training that led on to the Mothers’ Union. It
was started in 1956 and sponsored by the Convent of the Good Shepherd. Its aim was to keep the girls together in
a Christian environment and to teach them to be useful members of the community. There was a varied programme of religious instruction, knitting, embroidery, etc., and an annual exhibition. A training course was also held
every year at the convent for two delegates. Every third Sunday was identified for corporate worship when a Sister
from the Convent would come to address the girls.
The Mothers’ Union was started in 1954 by Sister Uranie of the abovementioned Convent and, as its name suggests, the organization was designed for mothers and married women. The main activities were Bible reading with
related questions and answers. There were also prayer sessions, a small cookery class and a monthly visit from
Sister Uranie.
SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH
It was established in 1919 at Flora’s Hall on Company Road. The cornerstone was laid for a new church building
in 1953. The congregation moved to the present site at Buxton Middle Walk in 1954 when the building was completed and opened for worship. This church ran a Dorcas Society, which is a group that focuses on Bible study and
humanitarian work.
CHURCH OF GOD
It also had its early beginning in Flora’s Hall. However, in 1933, a piece of land was bought at its present site and
the church building was constructed. Among the many social activities organized by this church were:
 An open Savings Bank for the community, which was successfully maintained for many years;
 An annual one-week vacation Bible school in August for children of the village, with an exhibition for parents on
the last night;
 An annual ‘Christmas Basket’ for the less fortunate in the village;
 Regular Bible Classes;
 A Youth Fellowship;
 A Boy’s Brigade;
 An After-Care Club for young men who had graduated from the Boys’ School at Onderneeming, Essequibo. This
group was chaired by the late and popular Rev. Oscar A. Lupe (‘Parson Lupe’).
HOLY TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH, ALSO KNOWN AS THE MACHETZKI MEMORIAL CHURCH
It began its work in Buxton in 1940 through Catechist Reginald Singh. At first, membership was poor because the
church was situated in the heart of the East Indian population of Hindus and ‘Mohamedans’ (Muslims) at Buxton
Front. However, through untiring efforts, a Sunday School was formed in 1942. The Minister appointed to the
church, Pastor Machetzki, died and his wife, who had been collecting donations in the USA for a new church building, also died soon after. Thus, the church was named in their memory. Funds continued to be raised by the members and well-wishers and, in June 1949, the building was completed and dedicated. This church ran a Luther
League for its young members.
(Continued on page 10)
Page 10
BUXTON-FRIENDSHIP EXPRESS
SOCIAL MOVEMENT— THE SCHOOL
(Continued from page 9)
The schools also played an important role in the social development of the village. Other than educational needs,
they also catered for those not academically inclined and for those who wanted to learn additional skills, such as
domestic training in cooking, sewing and gardening. There were also school concerts, school sports and ‘Open
Days’ when the village was invited in to see what the schools were producing.
BUXTON CONGREGATIONAL SCHOOL
It was the first to start teaching Domestic Science on a small scale. Groups of girls learned to make cakes and
pastries, and to prepare meals. This was done at the homes of two teachers, Misses John and Weatherspoon.
These items were sold and the profits, along with a grant from the government, enabled them to set up a Domestic
Science Centre in the school. Continued sales on a larger scale soon enabled them to purchase a refrigerator.
ST. ANTHONY’S ROMAN CATHOLIC SCHOOL
It began a Cooperative Thrift Society about 1953—1954. The school also had a Literary Club for the pupils of the
upper division. The pupils were allowed to elect office-bearers and to draw up their own programme under the supervision of the headteacher.
ST. AUGUSTINE’S ANGLICAN (later FRIENDSHIP GOVERNMENT SCHOOL),
Here, the boys who did gardening had a Gardening Club, and the girls of the Domestic Science class had a Domestic Club. Both clubs sold the items they produced and used the funds to purchase tools and other necessities.
There was also a Girls’ Club formerly called the ‘Pure Thought Circle’. This club was founded by the late Ms. May
Accra around 1939. Meetings were held once weekly, and its activities included poetry afternoons, impromptu
speeches, discussions, singing, drama, debates and indoor games.
This article will be continued in next month’s issue with the author presenting various organisations which helped
to shape social life in Buxton-Friendship
Some of the beneficiaries of the Club’s activities are shown in these photos taken by Oleta Williams, one
of its regular volunteers. The organisation was founded by Georgia-based Buxtonian, Mr. Weygand Gardner. In addition to Saturday enrichment classes, the organisation also facilitates university students with
scholarships and distributes school supplies and Christmas goodies to children in the village.
MAY 2014
Page 11
May Fair at Company Primary
Page 12
BUXTON-FRIENDSHIP EXPRESS
QB: THE ‘VELOCITOUS’ PRO
“Nah wheh ginnee bird halla,
ah deh he laay”
By Dr. Clayton Quintin Bacchus
Teacher George Younge was one of a select breed of Creolese linguists revered for promoting the efficacy of the
language invented and spoken by enslaved African labourers and their offspring. He readily used Creolese
proverbs to convey vivid descriptions and warnings which
were received by a more attentive audience. His utterances made immediate impact and, to this day, they are
among the Creolese proverbs often quoted. One of his
more popular inventions, “Nah wheh ginnee bird halla ah
deh he laay” teaches us that there are huge differences
between the real and the unreal.
As youths, we came to know this most illuming gentleman. We were always impressed with his nimble intellect
as he masterfully transcribed an expression from the
Queen’s English to a Creolese proverb.
Teacher George was a towering figure in every sense of
the word–bold, brawny and bright. Everyone was truly
George Arlington Younge
touched by his tone as he delivered those poetic lines in
(Teacher George)
a low-pitched range. Much more captivating was his
5 September, 1906 — 20 June, 1992
knack for expressing down-to-earth wisdom with passion
and panache.
He was nicknamed “Pro.” Of course, it was on purpose; he was a man of enormous expertise and experience. Local preacher, dance promoter, village counselor, organist, teacher, lecturer, philosopher, politician, folklorist, insurance agent are just a few titles he earned that were already impressive in their scope. But, those many titles were
never the core being of the man. As a matter of fact, he was not much interested in titles. For all the accolades his
accomplishments brought him, he remained most revered for his ability to eloquently express complex and convoluted concepts in a vernacular that ordinary villagers really understood and routinely parroted.
Teacher George lived modestly, but he gave generously He spoke authoritatively and sensibly. He was always
known and lauded for his cerebral versatility and his addictive use of proverbs. He was always quick to pinpoint
poor diction, especially when they were delivered by elite radio announcers. He always maintained that having a
genteel accent was not seminal to proper grammar.
“Pro” was also known for his excellent story telling skills. He had a unique way of making every story he told believable. He once told us that he was the best cyclist in the village in his hey days. He further related that, in a cycle
championship race from Mahaica to Buxton, he was going way too fast that he was forced to ‘brakes up’ at Non
Pariel Turn in order not to fly past the tape at Company Road, Buxton — a destination more than a mile away. Amazingly, he was able to convince us then that he was denied winning the first prize because he was faulted for being
“velocitous”. {He is said to have been a keen student of ‘Prophet Wills’.]
Teacher George loved the game of cricket and felt that it was a serious art form with great “pedagogical values”.
No one would deny that he was a walking encyclopedia of Cricket history. We all sought out his clarification whenever there was an intense argument over the game. The Pro, literally took notes from the radio commentary of a
cricket match. He had piles upon piles of exercise books with dates, times, description of shots, runs scored and
wickets taken. When asked, why he took and kept all those notes, his guttural response was, “Ah boy, when you
have documented facts, you can only be a winner.”
The ’velocitous’ Pro was a winner!
Page 13
MAY 2014
BUXTON SUMMER SOIREE IN BROOKLYN
SATURDAY, JUNE 21, 2014
from 6:00 p.m.
featuring
THE BEST OF VILLAGE TALES
Anecdotes of False Names & Nancy Stories
MUSICAL SHOWCASE
DYNAMIC DAVID OF REVELATION BAND & STEREO CHOICE
AFRIKAN DRUMMING
FINGER-LICKING FOOD
Shine-Rice & Pigeon-Peas Cook-up
Fish Cake * Fried Shark * Fried Chicken
Curry Dishes * DhalPuri * Roti
Chowmein * FriedRice
BlackPudding * Souse * WhitePudding
Konkie * Pone * Pastries
Phulouri * Channa * Jelebi
Mauby * Sorrell * Swank & More
VENUE
454 Vermont Street, Brooklyn, NY 11207
Between Blake & Sutter Avenues, East New York
Admission Donation: $5
Food & Drinks at Friendly Prices
More Info: 718-342-0040 / 347-881-7055 / 646-727-5937 / 347-863-6121
Proceeds to fund Education projects & purchase school supplies
Page 14
BUXTON-FRIENDSHIP EXPRESS
CRUMBLING COMMUNITY CENTRE
This, once pristine,
property was donated
to the village by Dr.
J.E. Ramdeholl to be
used as a community
centre.
While it still houses the
Buxton Public Library,
it also previously
accommodated the
former Buxton
Government Secondary
School.
BUXTON COMMUNITY CENTRE
located at Middle Walk & Watson Street, Friendship
Photo taken by Rollo Younge, April 2014
With the local authority having no immediate plans to fix the crumbling Buxton
Community Centre, this edifice could soon disappear from the village landscape.
Chairman Randolph Blair of the Buxton-Foulis Neighbourhood Democratic
Council acknowledged, in an interview with this publication, that remedial work is
necessary to save the building. But, he also disclosed there was no attention being given to that need at this time. This may be due to lack of funds.
Several municipalities and local authorities around the country are grappling
with problems, caused mainly by deficient revenues, to maintain local institutions and provide adequate service in their communities. This situation seems to
have been made worse by a political standoff which has not only delayed Local
Government Elections for seventeen years., but continues to starve the district
bodies of more capable, competent and elected administrators.
(Continued on page 15)
MAY 2014
Page 15
COMMUNITY CENTRE
(Continued from page 14)
The Buxton Community Centre building was
constructed several decades ago by the late Dr.
J.E. Ramdeholl to house a hospital. Dr.
Ramdeholl, who also served as a member and
chairman of the then Buxton-Friendship Village
Council, later donated the property to the Council for use as a community centre.
From the mid 60’s until its closure in 1975,
the Buxton Government Secondary School was
accommodated in this building. Hundreds of students from Plaisance to Mahaica were schooled
at this institution, with many of them progressing to establish brilliant careers.
While the building still houses the Buxton branch of the
National Public Library, situated on the ground floor, its
presence there seems to have diminished greatly. The upper two floors have been leased out by the NDC.
“All God’s Little Children”, a youth group founded by Weygand Gardner, and which is sponsored by his Georgiabased foundation, occupies the middle floor. A fraternal
lodge holds the tenancy for the top storey.
Mr. Gardner indicated that his foundation has carried out
some repairs to the building that make it habitable. However, he would like to secure the support of villagers, alumni
of the school, and other interested donors in restoring the
property to its stature and optimum use.
View of the crumbling Buxton Community Centre from Watson Street
Page 16
BUXTON-FRIENDSHIP EXPRESS
Parris Column: COCONUT OIL
A UNIQUE SATURATED FAT
Coconut oil is
92% saturated
fatty acid. According to a
Web
medical
dictionary,
“Fatty acids are
the
building
blocks of the fat
in our bodies
and in the food
we eat. During digestion, the body breaks down fats
into fatty acids, which can then be absorbed into the
blood. Fatty acid molecules are usually joined together in groups of three, forming a molecule called
a triglyceride. Triglycerides are also made in our
bodies from the carbohydrates that we eat. Fatty acids have many important functions in the body, including energy storage. If glucose (a type of sugar)
isn't available for energy, the body uses fatty acids to
fuel the cells instead.”
Each fatty acid, regardless of whether it is saturated
or not, affects the body differently and exerts different influences on our health. Therefore, one saturated fat may adversely affect health, while another may
promote good health. Coconut oil is one of the saturated fatty acid that positively impacts health. The
saturated fats in coconut oil come from medium
chain triglycerides. These shorter fat chains are easily put to use by the body and are not simply stored
away as fat.
The degree of saturation and length of the carbon
chain of the fatty acid determine their chemical
properties and their effects on our health. Saturated
fatty acids are usually long chain fatty acids. However, coconut oil is exceptional. It is rich in short and
medium chain fatty acids. Approximately 50% of the
fatty acids in coconut fat are lauric acid. Lauric acid
is a medium-chain fatty acid, which has the unique
properties that it lends to non-food uses in the cosmetic and soap industry. In addition, it has the benefit of being transformed into a substance called
By Mr. Rennie Parris
"monolaurin" in the human body. Monolaurin is an antibacterial, antiviral and antiprotozoal substance used by the human body to
destroy lipid-coated viruses such as HIV,
herpes, influenza, various pathogenic bacteria and protozoa such as giardia lamblia. Recently, lauric acid has been recognized for its
unique properties in foods which are related
to its antibacterial, antiviral, antiprotozoal,
antimicrobial, antioxidant, antifungal, antiinflammatory, anti-parasitic, and antiviral
functions .
Capric acid, another one of coconut's medium-chain fatty acids has been added to the
list of coconut's antimicrobial components.
Capric acid is found in large amounts in coconuts and it has a similar beneficial function when it is transformed into
"monocaprin" in the human body. Monocaprin has been shown to have antiviral effects against HIV and is being tested for its
antiviral effects against herpes simplex and
antibacterial effects against chlamydia and
other sexually transmitted diseases.
Additionally, research has shown that natural coconut fat in the diet leads to a normalization of body lipids, protects against alcohol
damage to the liver, and improves the immune system's anti-inflammatory response.
The medium-chain fatty acids and monoglycerides found primarily in coconut oil
have tremendous healing power. It is rare in
the history of medicine to find substances
which have such useful properties and still
be without toxicity or even harmful side effects.
For years, coconut oil has had a bad name,
lumped in with unhealthy saturated fats.
People steered away from it and other high
fat foods. The problem with throwing coconut oil in the same category as butter, mar(Continued on page 17)
MAY 2014
Page 17
Coconut Oil: Unique Saturated Fat
(Continued from page 16)
garine, and shortening is this oil is far healthier
than it appears. The food industry has long been
aware that the functional properties of coconut
oil are unsurpassed by other commercially available oils. Unfortunately, in the United States,
during the 1980s and 1990s, the commercial interests of the U.S. domestic fats and oils industry
with their anti-saturated fat agenda were successful at driving down the use of coconut oil.
The coconut industry has suffered for more
than 30 years from abusive rhetoric from the
consumer activist group "Center for Science in
the Public Interest" (CSPI), from the American
Soybean Association (ASA) and other members
of the edible oil industry.
How did the anti-saturated fat campaign begin?
It really began in the late 1950s, when a researcher in Minnesota announced that the heart disease
epidemic was being caused by hydrogenated vegetable fats. The edible oil industry's response at
that time was to claim that it was only the Saturated Fat in the hydrogenated oils which was
causing the problem. The industry then announced that it would be changing to 'partially
hydrogenated' fats and that this would solve the
problem. In fact, there was no change at all because the oils were already being partially hydrogenated, and the levels of saturated fatty acids
remained about the same, as did the levels of the
trans fatty acids. The only thing that really
changed was the term for hydrogenation or hardening listed on the food labels.
As a result of the acceptance of this new 'antisaturated fat' agenda by the domestic edible oils
industry, there was a gradual increase in the emphasis on replacing 'saturated fats' in the diet
with larger amounts of the 'polyunsaturated fats'.
The government dietary guidelines remain very
'anti-saturated fat' to this day.
In the early sixties, the only tropical oil singled
out as high in saturated fats was coconut oil.
Palm oil had not entered the United States food
supply to any extent and had not become a commercial threat to the domestic oils.
…..Rennie Parris’ Column
In the early 1970s, although a number of researchers were voicing concerns about trans fatty acids, the edible oil industry and the U.S. Food
and Drug Administration (FDA) were engaging
in a revolving-door exchange which condemned
the saturated fats, promoted the increase in consumption of partially hydrogenated vegetable
oils, and hid the trans fatty acid problem.
In 1971, the Food and Drug Administration
(FDA)'s general counsel became president of the
edible oil trade association, and he in turn was
replaced at the FDA by a food lawyer who had
represented the edible oil industry.
From that point on, the truth about any real
effects of the dietary fats had to play catch-up.
The U.S. edible oil industry sponsored
'information' to educate the public, and the natural dairy and animal fats industries were inept at
countering any of that misinformation. Not being domestically grown in the U.S., coconut oil
and palm oil were not around to defend themselves at that time. That is how coconut oil fell
out of favor with the public.
Eating raw coconut would clearly be the best
option, but most of us do not have access to this,
so using coconut oil is the next best thing. One
way you will want to consider adding coconut oil
to your diet is to use it exclusively for all your
cooking and sautéing needs. Coconut oil is a
completely saturated fat that does not form dangerous trans fatty acids. This means coconut oil
boosts energy levels, raises good cholesterol, and
balances out blood sugar without the weight
gain, cholesterol, and other health risks that
come from other saturated or trans fats. Coconut
oil does not stop there. It also aids in the absorption of vitamins and minerals. These immune
boosting properties make it the perfect oil to use
in a many ways.
Page 18
BUXTON-FRIENDSHIP EXPRESS
OBITUARY: ELISSA MCPHERSON
Elissa Malverna McPherson, neé McCalman, was born on 10th
September, 1933 at Buxton Village to Edith Baird and Thomas
Billy McCalman. She was the younger sister to Shirley Singh
and Winsdale McCalman. On 12th May, 2014, Elissa was called
home to reunite with her parents and siblings in heaven.
As a child, Elissa received her early education at Friendship
Methodist (Wesleyan) School. She graduated to attend
Theirens’ High School, which was housed at Flora’s Hall along
Company Road, near to her home. This institution was governed by venerable school principal, Stanley Theirens, father of
the late Winifred Theirens-Gaskin, the renowned Buxtonian
scholar, journalist, politician and diplomat.
In June of 1955, Elissa tied the marital knot with her sweetheart, Sinclair McPherson. The union produced four affectionate sons — Philip, Karl, Gerald, and Glendon. She is remembered as a very loving, but stern mother.
The responsibility of raising so many boys could be a challenging task for any mother, but Elissa took care in instilling
strong values in her children and demanded nothing but the
best from them. Respect for self and others was paramount in
their upbringing. They grew to understand and appreciate the discipline she strove to inculcate in
them. Today, they are most grateful to her for having prepared them to deal with the sometimes
harsh realities of life they would encounter later.
Elissa was known as an avid farmer. She was introduced to the activity by her mother. She could
not stand seeing any plot of land wasted to weeds or unproductive use. She envisioned and fascinated on the harvest that could be reaped if crops like ground provisions and fruit trees were cultivated
there instead. Elissa engaged in both produce (crop) and livestock farming. But as time and age
eroded her stamina, she shifted her hobby to cultivating garden vegetables and potted plants.
During the 1990’s, she made the trip to London to spend some time with her second son, Karl and
his family. After an extended stay, she left there in 1997 and moved to the United States. Sharing her
time between New York and Maryland, she eventually settled in the Brooklyn borough of New York.
There she lived until her passing this month.
In Brooklyn, she was elated to be reunited with her grandson, Jason. She had helped in nurturing
him from the time he was a baby, as he was raised under her very roof in Guyana. Naturally, the two
of them developed a close and undying bond.
(Continued on page 19)
MAY 2014
Page 19
ELISSA MCPHERSON
(Continued from page 18)
She was also happy to have her other grandchildren and later great-grandchildren around her, and
to receive information and view photographs of their development. She poured her love on them,
and they seemed to bring untold joy to her heart. The joy of being a grandmother seemed to have
whittled away the stern demeanor from her personality.
Besides Jason, she was the loving grandmother to Craig, Carlotta, Jermaine, Joslyn, Karl, Jason,
Declan, Kristine, Kester, Kathryn, Kester, Gerald, and Shanice.
Elissa was overjoyed at the arrival of her newest great-grandson, Jack, this Mother’s Day (May 11).
Her glee over his first photos was itself a picture of delight to behold; this was betrayed, however, by
the mortal pain which shortly followed. She was suddenly gone, and unexpectedly so to her family,
friends and others close to her.
She leaves behind her eleven great-grandchildren: Marieta, Josiah, Jedidah, Latanya, Ramaro, Japhia, Gailee, Elliot, Elijah, Wesley, and Jack.
Elissa is also survived by nine nephews and nieces: Michael, Dawn, Charis, Richard, Robert, Debbie, Shonnet, Michael, and Urna
She also leaves to mourn her loss her Daughters-in-law: Jenny, Avis, and Laverne; Granddaughters
-in-law: Aselle, Kris, Emma, and Latoya; Grandson-in-law: Narku; Adopted Daughters: Yvette Ross
and Vera Mann; Cousins: Horace Abrams (Gladwin), Bernice Abrams, Claudette Graham (nee
Abrams), Maxim Abrams, Gordon Abrams, Kurt Abrams, Leroy Abrams, and others.
The life of Elissa Malverna McPherson was memorialized on May 18, 2014 in Brooklyn, NY. Her
remains were laid to rest the following day at Pinelawn Memorial Park, Farmingdale, New York.
Recent Transitions
Patricia Fredericks (Buxton/Strathspey)
Elissa McPherson (Brooklyn, NY)
7 May, 2014
12 May, 2014
Cynthia Garnett (Annandale)
Albert Henry a/k/a “Man-in-the-Street”, aged 92, (Annandale)
Alicia Griffith (Dolphin) (Brusche Dam), Former Proprietress of Alicia’s Day Care
Threon Braithwaite (Son of Thora & Kenneth Braithwaite; Brooklyn, NY)
Condolences to the bereaved families. And may the souls of the dearly departed rest in peace!
Buxton-Friendship Express
May 2014
Published by Buxton-Friendship
Heritage Fund, Inc.
U.S. Postal Address
454 Vermont Street
Brooklyn, NY 11207
E-mail Address
buxtonexpress@aol.com
Facebook
Www.facebook.com/Buxton Guyana
Website
Www.buxtonguyana.net
This Stabroek News photo of May 16th captures pupils from
Buxton Primary (Missionary) School having appreciable fun
rolling a tyre along the street as they head home.
CONTRIBUTING WRITER / EDITOR
Lorna Campbell
718-342-0040
COLUMNISTS
Dr. Clayton Bacchus
Mr. Rennie Parris
EVENT
th
Celebrate
Buxton 175 Purchase Anniversary
April — August, 2015
From Easter to Emancipation
Come Home!
DAY & DATE
DETAILS
SUMMER SOIREE
Saturday, June 21
Culture, Cuisine & Cocktail Bash / Raffle Drawing
BUXTON HERITAGE WEEK
July 28—August 2
Debating Competition / Student Workshop / High Achievers’
Tour / Home Pride Final /Emancipation Festivities / Senior
Citizens’ Treat / Forum
NY-BUXTON FORUM
Sunday, August 17
Education, Economy & Environment
SUMMER MELTDOWN
Sunday, September 21
Sip & Chow
BUXTON MEDICAL OUTREACH
To be Announced
Buxton Health Centre
KWANZAA CELEBRATION
Sunday, December 28
Appreciation Party & Kwanzaa Celebration
Buxton: The Spice of Guyana