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The rare Ghost Orchid, which can only be found in Grand Cayman, has been listed among the 100 most threatened species in the world, according to a new report. The report, titled “Priceless or Worthless? The world’s most threatened species”, focuses on 100 species from 48 different countries that the authors say would be next species to become extinct if no conservation action is taken. In the report, compiled from input from a network of 8,000 scientists and researchers in the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Species Survival Commission, authors Jonathan Baillie and Ellen Butcher from the Zoological Society of London, identified 100 animals, plants and fungi facing extinction on the planet. “The declines of most of these species have been caused by humans and in almost all cases their extinction can be avoided and the decline reversed. Thus, their future existence lies squarely in our hands,” Mr. Baillie said in an introduction to the report. “Whether they disappear forever or remain on the planet simply depends on whether we as a society believe they are worth protecting,” he said. The Ghost Orchid, which is found only in Grand Cayman, flowers for about two weeks between April and June. The flower, known by its scientific name of Dendrophylax fawcettii, grows mainly in the remaining six acres of the Ironwood Forest in the George Town district. A small number of the flowers have been transplanted to the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park and the Turtle Farm, but its main concentration can be found in the Ironwood Forest. The presence of the orchid helped prevent a bypass being built through the forest in 2008 after a public outcry over the probability of the orchid and other native species disappearing if the work went ahead. According to the authors of the report: “This temporary reprieve will be insufficient to ensure the long-term survival of the enchanting ghost orchid as the Ironwood Forest continues to remain without any formal protection.” Also growing in the forest are other flora that are culturally significant to Cayman, including the Ironwood tree, Thatch Palm, the Banana orchid, which is Cayman’s national flower; and the “Old George” tree. The report points out that the Cayman Islands does not have comprehensive conservation legislation necessary to establish national protected areas, and only 5 per cent is under the protection of the National Trust for the Cayman Islands. “With appropriate legislation, protection of the Ironwood Forest would be possible, either by purchase or through establishing management agreements with the private landowners. This would benefit the landowners by enabling them to maintain their land in its natural state, as they have done for generations. All that is required to enable this is the political will,” the report stated. The long awaited National Conservation Bill, which has gone through several iterations since it was first drafted in 2002, has still not been presented to the Legislative Assembly. That law, if passed, would offer protection to terrestrial flora and fauna in the Cayman Islands. At the moment, some animals and birds are protected under the 1976 Animals Law, but the plants of the Cayman Islands have no legal conservation protection. Cayman’s Environmental Protection Fund has more than $43 million in it and was originally set up in 1997 to acquire land for conservation purposes and other environmental projects. However, the fund is counted among the government’s reserve cash and has rarely been used for the purposes for which it was established. Money in the fund is collected from departure taxes charged to travellers leaving Cayman via the airport or the cruise ship terminal. Mat Cottam of the Cayman Islands Department of Environment said he hoped the orchid’s inclusion in the report would help raise the profile of this and other unique local flora and fauna. “As far as natural populations go, the majority of known Cayman Ghost orchids are found in the Ironwood Forest. A few are also to be found in a small area of similar habitat in the National Trust’s Mastic reserve. It is the complicated habitat requirements of the orchids which contribute to their limited distribution. “Some orchids were transplanted to the Botanic Park in the past; however, this is not a natural habitat for them. The Old George bromeliads found at the park are similarly transplanted. While attractions such as the park serve a valuable function in introducing the public to our natural history, and educating them about it, artificial populations such as these are not a replacement for natural populations. It is only within natural populations that animals and plants interact naturally, and contribute completely to the ecology of their environment,” Mr. Cottam said. He added: “The protective power of local people and local legislation is the most essential element in the preservation of endemic species. Wise stewardship of our unique natural heritage is our personal responsibility to global biodiversity – no one else can do it for us.” Mr. Cottam said the draft National Conservation Bill, which would protect the Ironwood Forest, had “languished in the drafting and redrafting process for over 10 years”. In addition to the threat of critical habitat loss, another reason why Grand Cayman’s Ghost Orchid is so vulnerable is that it so rarely reproduces from seed, said Ms Rose-Smyth, a member of the Cayman Islands Orchid Society Native Species working group. “Research is ongoing with plants that were relocated to the Queen Elizabeth Botanic Park a few years ago following land clearance for a housing sub-division in George Town. Although we have successfully hand pollinated flowers and I have germinated seeds in sterile, in-vitro, conditions, transferring the young plants to the exterior natural environment is a challenge,” she said. Phil Seaton of the Orchid Seed Stores for Sustainable Use, based at the Millennium Seed Bank at Royal Botanical Gardens in Kew in England, said the inclusion of the Ghost Orchid in the report would help highlight the plight of the flower. “I can’t tell you how pleased I am to see the profile of endangered orchids being raised at last. The emphasis always seems to be on what is commonly called ‘charismatic megafauna’ and endangered plants rarely appear in the press: somehow they don’t seem to generate the same excitement in the general public,” Mr. Seaton said. “Orchids, however, are different inasmuch as they have a certain romance attached to them with their air of mystery and exoticism. They have been referred to as the ‘pandas of the plant world’,” he added. The National Trust for the Cayman Islands also expressed concern about the future of the Ghost Orchid and other species found in the Ironwood Forest. Source: http://www.compasscayman.com |
Best known for creating large-scale murals covering walls, ceilings and entire rooms, Tansy Maki adds joy and colour to the Cayman Islands and far beyond.
The children at Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment at The Ritz-Carlton, a programme that teaches children about marine conservation, gaze at a brown-and-white striped Nassau grouper painted on the floor-to-ceiling mural in their classroom. They are amazed at how much bigger the grouper is than the four-eyed butterfly fish. They reach out and touch the grouper; one child takes a red marker and draws over it.
The naturalist/teacher notices the child drawing but doesn’t mind. The mural is covered in plexiglass, which allows it to be used as an interactive teaching tool to engage the children. Instead, she points to red and green parrotfish, explaining that this species is important to the Caymanian marine environment.
The massive mural makes one feel as if one is standing on the floor of the ocean. It depicts mangroves, corals, sponges, barracuda, upside-down jellyfish, angelfish, stingrays and a range of other marine life in vivid detail and colouring.
At another location, the artist, Tansy Maki, is evaluating a wall for an upcoming proposed mural. When approved, this mural will feature Caymanian geography and wildlife. The sketch she is creating features caves, tidal pools, turtle nests, boobies and a pelican diving into the sea. A blue iguana, an endangered species only found in the Cayman Islands, also makes a notable appearance in this sketch.
Susan Olde, a local philanthropist, commissioned Tansy for paintings on the outside of her home, in her children’s rooms and in other personal areas. Olde really appreciated Tansy’s approach with her children, where she encouraged them to describe their ideas and then translating those ideas onto the walls. “If you could paint, what would you want it to look like?” asks Olde. “That dream that so many of us have, but cannot create, Tansy makes that happen.”
A Creative Start
Born and raised in Vancouver, Canada, Tansy’s father was an architect and her mother was a librarian. When she was a child, her father would draw large-scale sketches and have Tansy and her sister colour them in. This ignited her imagination and fuelled the creative drive she pursued throughout her childhood.
She entered several art competitions and often won. In school, she was so devoted to her artwork that oftentimes a teacher would have to kick her out of the art room. For her birthday she only wanted art supplies. She remembers her first wooden easel with its cups of paint. She made papier-mâché sculptures in the basement and sketched costume designs. Outside of school she took art classes, including charcoal, pottery, papier mâché, sculpture, abstract and live model sketching.
At 17, she started working in the film industry, which involved creating set designs and décor. She sculpted 15-foot totem poles, built trees, created giant floral arrangements, decorated movie sets and painted backdrops for television commercials. “There is so much pressure in the film industry to get things done quickly,” says Tansy. “It is not uncommon to work 15 hours a day. This is where I learned how to get things done in a limited time frame.”
Today, there are times when a client will need an entire room painted while they’re out on a two-week vacation, so Tansy will work 15 hours or more a day until it is done. If she’s working in a restaurant that’s in operation, she has no problem starting at 10 o’clock at night and working through the night so the room is available during the day.
“When I am on a project it is all-consuming. I dream about the designs. When I close my eyes I see it. I will sing while I paint. I am not aware of anything around me.”
Bringing Colour to the Islands
When she was 19, Tansy met an airbrush artist who taught her how to airbrush. Since she already had years of artistic training in a range of mediums, she embraced airbrushing because it was such a versatile tool. She would join him on a mural project in the Cayman Islands that included Greek and pirate themes for connecting restaurants. When the three-month project was finished, the Cayman Islands had become home.
Seven years ago, she started MindsEye Art Ltd., a specialty art company, with a Caymanian partner and branched out on her own. One of her early commissions as a solo muralist was the underwater scene at the Jean-Michel Cousteau program. She couldn’t be more delighted to see the children huddled beneath it. But this project was just the start of a fresh wave of creativity as more clients commissioned her for their homes and vacation getaways, not only in the Cayman Islands, but also in Costa Rica, St. Maarten/St. Martin, Jamaica, Canada and the U.S.
An interior decorator with IDG Cayman, Katie Adams, hired Tansy to create special faux finishes for her clients’ private homes. Tansy transformed sterile walls into something with warmth and depth. She created brick with torn away plaster and marble finishes so convincingly realistic that the observer has no idea it is an illusion created by the artist’s hand.
She adds a sense of whimsy to a room with a trompe l’oeil, which is a painting made to look like a 3-D window. The mural of a catboat floating on the crystal-blue waters of the sea features a conch shell on the window ledge that looks so realistic you would think you could pick it up. “All my clients love the quality and the realistic detail of her work,” says Adams, whose many clients have vacation homes all over the world.
Even a skyscape of clouds on the ceiling is done with a thoughtful approach. By using a range of metallic paint that reflects shades of light on the edge of the clouds, there is a subtle change in colour as the day turns into evening that is compelling to the eye.
Artistic Versatility
There seems to be no end to Tansy’s talents. She is able to capture an old-world French landscape, the exotic beauty of a Japanese geisha, the playfulness of a 1940s pinup girl, and the vivid colours of parrots and wildlife with equal creativity, which demonstrate the years spent mastering her art. Even the delicate brushwork she uses on furniture can transform an everyday piece into a vintage French country-style accent piece.
MTM owner, Vicki Wheaton, has hired Tansy to create sculptures for corporate events and provide artistic entertainment at large functions and parties, which are always a big hit. At these events, Tansy airbrushes tattoos on the guests or body paints them.
“She has such a unique style,” says Wheaton. “You can recognise her work from a mile off. She works best when she is given carte blanche… and always seems to incorporate the shades and moods of the Caribbean.”
Another area where Tansy’s talent really shines is in nurseries and children’s rooms. She uses her realistic style of painting rather than the cartoonish approach other artists use. Andrea Williams recently commissioned Tansy to paint an underwater scene for her toddler’s playroom. The mother is amazed at how her son and his friends have become so engaged with the murals. “They will reach out to the marine life, name them and have animated discussions as to whether [the animals] are happy or sad,” says Andrea.
Then there are the buildings that she has yet to paint. Every building she walks by seems like a blank canvas of possibilities. She envisions pillars covered in creeping vines and a top floor painted in feathery clouds. A seawall in the harbour is another chance to paint a mural of sea life found here in the Cayman Islands. And she dreams of the chance of painting them all. Because even in her dreams, Tansy is painting on the walls.
See Tansy’s creations at these public locations:
Café Del Sol at Camana Bay
Five paintings featuring ladies and angels against the tranquil surroundings of the water.
LUCA Restaurant
Men’s restroom features 1940s pin up girls and the ladies’ restroom features faux texture of palm fronds.
Ritz-Carlton Resort
Ambassadors of the Environment underwater scene.
Casanova Restaurant
Main dining room ceiling features an Italian renaissance theme.
FINDING INSPIRATION
After three decades of painting and creating art in a variety of mediums, Tansy is constantly pushing herself to grow as an artist, trying new techniques and methods. As many of her works can attest, Tansy draws much of her inspiration from nature: The sea, the wildlife and even a simple water droplet on a leaf can spark a wealth of creative ideas. For more information, visit tansymaki.com or e-mail Tansy at tansymaki@gmail.com.
Source: caymanairwaysmagazine.com
Travelling with kids can certainly be a challenge. Fortunately, at the very heart of the Cayman Islands are attractions and activities designed to enrich the family-fun experience. Here, your family will be charmed by our history, engage in our rich local culture and take a walk — or swim — on the adventurous side of the Islands.
Up Close with Nature
The Cayman Turtle Farm is one of the longest-running attractions in the Cayman Islands and is definitely worth a full day’s visit. Here, the history of turtle farming in the Cayman Islands can be learned while the family feeds mature green sea turtles or you can take a photo with a youngling (1-year-old turtle). But the fun does not stop there. You can also stroll through the free-flight bird aviary, tickle a starfish in the shallow-water touch tank, snorkel the salt-water lagoon or take a walk down “Cayman Street” and witness local elders make toys and braid thatch ropes.
For more fun with nature, explore the caves at Pirates Caves or visit the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park for an informative tour through the colourful flora and the Blue Iguana Recovery Program, dedicated to the protection and reproduction of Grand Cayman’s endangered blue iguanas.
For a taste of nature’s bounty, a number of farmers’ markets occur at varying locations and days of the week. Visit the Farmers’ Market at Camana Bay on Wednesdays, the Fresh Market at Reflections Food-for-Less on Fridays, the Market at the Grounds in Lower Valley on Saturdays, and the Green Market at Plantation House Organic Gardens in Bodden Town on Sundays. Each offers a unique experience, an opportunity to explore the flavours of locally grown produce, interact with residents of the islands and sometimes purchase handmade art and crafts. Pick up a few mangoes, naseberries and other exotic fruits and head to the beach like the locals do.
Watersports Activities
The sun, sea and sand combination is always a favourite activity for children of all ages. With beaches practically spread along the shores of all three islands, this is an activity you could do just about every day without complaint. Do not miss Seven Mile Beach (West Bay Road), Rum Point (North Side), Spotts Public Beach (Spotts), Barcadere Marina (George Town) or Owen Island (Little Cayman).
Talk to anyone who has ever snorkelled or dived in the Cayman Islands and they will tell you that bliss exists where the alluring blue and green hues of the water meet the rich underwater wildlife beneath the surface. So don’t hesitate — go ahead and grab snorkel gear from your resort or condominium and hit the beach.
For a new spin on the entire snorkel and dive experience, try Snuba at Sea Trek. The guided underwater tours of the Wreck of the Cali and Stingray City use the Sea Trek helmet diving system, which allows you to breathe normally through an air line and does not require dive certification. Younger kids can also enjoy the underwater adventures when you book a submarine tour with Atlantis Adventures or Nautilus Undersea Tours.
Above the surface, discover the intricate wildlife habitats between the mangroves and along the shoreline with a guided tour with Cayman Kayaks and Cayman Sea Elements. Venture out to Stingray City and The Sandbar for an up-close-and-personal encounter with the gentle southern stingray or swim with dolphins at Dolphin Cove or Dolphin Discovery Grand Cayman. The Red Sail Sports banana boat ride is also a good laugh for all.
If you would prefer to stay dry and do not want to miss out on the fun, enjoy the view aboard a private yacht charter with Cayman Luxury Charters or a pirate cruise with The Jolly Roger. Kids and adults alike can walk on water — quite literally — when climbing into an inflatable Wowball and the “Green Monster” waterslide at Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville is sure to keep the kids amused while you grab a bite to eat.
Sports and Recreation
The Black Pearl Skate and Surf Park is the second largest purpose-built skate park in the world. One half of this attraction features concrete slopes for skaters of all levels; the other half is an artificial freshwater wave surf park. Instructors are on-hand to provide lessons, and equipment for both facilities is available for rent.
Hop in a go-kart for a ride in the fast lane with Cayman Karting or take a step back in time at King’s Sports Centre with tenpin glow bowling and in-line roller skating. Then slow things down a bit with an entertaining round of miniature golf or fly a model aeroplane or helicopter with the Cayman Islands Model Flying Association.
A cool stop for car lovers, Cayman Motor Museum in West Bay has a stunning display of Ferraris, Jaguars, Bentleys, the original Batmobile and a replica of the first vehicle driven in the Cayman Islands, a 1905 Cadillac.
Recreational parks abound on Grand Cayman and are open to the general public free of charge. Kids young and old explore their boisterous side while climbing jungle gyms and swinging to new heights. Popular parks include the Dart Park (South Sound), Scholars Park (West Bay) and the Airport Park (George Town). Pick up lunch at a nearby restaurant and make a day of it.
For a break from the sun, enjoy an indoor-playground facility such as Kidz Zone or Smyles; the combination of jungle gym equipment and arcade games makes both facilities suitable for children up to 13 years old. Play Away! caters to families with children aged 12 months to 5 years and offers a space where kids can get creative and be inspired.
Local Heritage
The history of the Cayman Islands entails legends of pirate invasions; royal ship wrecks; an industry built on seafaring, turtling and thatch-rope making; and strong ties with neighbouring Jamaica. Delve into these tales of times gone by and visit the many historical sites dotted around Cayman.
At the centre of Hog Sty Bay, George Town, stands the Cayman Islands National Museum. This dwelling of artefacts and historical specimens is housed in one of the few remaining 19th-century structures in the Cayman Islands. It has served as a jail, a courthouse and even a place of worship. The National Trust for the Cayman Islands also serves as a beacon for local history and heritage, offering daily and weekly visits to many of Grand Cayman’s historic sites, including a walking tour through central George Town. They also offer bird-watching tours, island information and helpful advice for must-visit family attractions.
The birthplace of democracy in the Cayman Islands, Pedro St. James, is another great attraction to learn about the early history of the Cayman Islands. The historic home is perched on the edge of a limestone cliff where a dramatic view of the ocean can be enjoyed.
If you are visiting Cayman Brac, the Cayman Brac District Administration Office offers a free guided tour of the Islands’ major attractions. Little Cayman visitors can tour the island at little cost with The Little Cayman National Trust.
Art and Culture
Paintings, sculptures and other art can be found in the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands, but the real treat for families are the art classes held on Saturday mornings. All supplies and equipment are provided, all you have to bring is your imagination.
Pick up a framed photograph, painting or a piece of Caymanite jewellery made from a local artist at the Cayman Craft Market in George Town. Jams, jellies, pastries and a wide assortment of other surprise bargains can also be found at this daily market.
Camana Bay
This charming town is a crowd-pleaser. Attend one of the free nightly events, let the kids play in their water features, bring a packed lunch and picnic along the water’s edge or in one of their cosy pavilions, climb the Observation Tower for a panoramic view of Seven Mile Beach, or drop in on a storytelling or craft-making session ideal for younger kids.
You can also catch a flick at one of the six screens at the Hollywood Theaters at Camana Bay, where the latest in new movie releases are featured and matinees start around noon.
Halloween Spooktacular at Camana Bay
An evening of fun and fright awaits your little monsters at Camana Bay’s annual Halloween Spooktacular, Saturday, October 27. Pumpkin patches, creepy crafts, ghoulish goodies and a monster lab can all be expected at this haunted affair. Wear your scariest costume and come prepared to trick or treat. Call 345-640-4000 for more information or visit camanabay.com.
Source: caymanairwaysmagazine.com
Brett and Shaune Fraser, Ronald Forbes, and Cydonie Mothersill prepare to represent the Cayman Islands in the 2012 London Olympic Games throughout July and August.
Shaune Fraser
Sport: Swimming
Age: 24
Hometown: George Town, Grand Cayman
Olympic events: 100- and 200-Metre Freestyle
Training grounds: Gainesville, Florida
Lucky for Shaune Fraser, he’s always got his brother, Brett, close by, egging him on. During the 2008 Olympics, the two were side by side serving as flag bearers during the opening ceremonies. They also both received athletic scholarships to attend the University of Florida. In other words, they spend a lot of quality time together.
Why are you so passionate about your sport?
I just love to race and compete; it keeps the sport fun, which [for me] is the most important aspect to anything that you do in life.
What do you do in your free time?
Swimming is a very time-consuming sport, but when I am not swimming I like to hang out with my friends and family, and relax as much as possible.
What do you miss most now that you’re not at home in Grand Cayman?
I miss my family, as most of my family still lives in the Cayman Islands. But I also miss the beaches; there are no other beaches around the world that can compare to ours.
What’s the toughest workout you do to train for the Olympic Games?
Not only do we have swimming practise, but we also run in stadiums and on dry land, and lift weights. The combination of all these workouts is probably the toughest thing about the sport.
What about the Olympics are you most looking forward to?
I am excited to compete and meet all the other athletes from around the world. It is also nice to catch up with friends from other countries that you don’t see very often.
Brett Fraser
Sport: Swimming
Age: 23
Hometown: George Town, Grand Cayman
Olympic event: 200-Metre Freestyle
Training grounds: Gainesville, Florida
Every athlete has a different way of prepping for competition. For Brett Fraser, it’s an ice-cold tank of water. He jumps in for about eight minutes to help flush out lactic acid. Beyond that, he also wears compression attire to help circulate blood flow and uses suction cups to break up really tight muscle fibres. “It looks like a giant squid got a hold of you,” he says.
Why are you passionate about your sport?
I love the extreme dedication and work ethic that goes into any sport, and being surrounded by like-minded people with such great goals is where my inspiration comes from.
Do you have any game-day rituals?
A good night’s sleep always helps. I listen to a lot of music and try to remain relaxed. I tell myself that I’ve done all the work and that the fun part is next.
What’s the toughest workout you do to train for the Olympics?
I wouldn’t say that there is necessarily one, but about a year prior to the event is when training starts to pick up [in intensity]. All aspects of my regimen start to gain great intensity in the final months leading up to the games.
What about the Olympics worries you/excites you most?
I try to be as completely prepared as possible, but there is always a side of nervousness that accompanies me to every competition. I’d like to say I am more excited than worried, though. The silent intensity that surrounds the Olympic atmosphere is most exciting to me; everyone wants to reach that pinnacle point in their career.
Tell us a few quirky things about yourself.
I sing underwater during practise sometimes. And I prefer to use both a fork and knife during every meal.
Name the number one thing you love about the Cayman Islands.
The food! Nothing really comes quite close. The beaches are also the best.
What are you most looking forward to doing and seeing in London?
The London Eye, Madame Tussauds, the museums, and the dining and nightlife (after competing).
Ronald Forbes
Sport: Track and Field
Age: 27
Hometown: North Side, Grand Cayman
Olympic event: 110-Metre High Hurdles
Training grounds: Miami, Florida
Ronald Forbes’ sterling list of credentials continues growing with no end in sight. He competes on the Florida International University Track and Field team in Miami, and has won title after title. The 2012 games will be his second, as the 27-year-old competed in the 2008 Beijing Olympics. “What excites me the most is that the opportunities to elevate my career seem to be endless,” he says. “I know that many people never get to that level to compete in the Olympics, so I feel very fortunate and blessed.”
Why are you so passionate about track and field?
This sport forces you to be competitive and aggressive throughout all facets of your life — especially the hurdles. To me, they represent life. In order to keep moving forward, you simply have to conquer some obstacles.
Do you have any game-day rituals?
I say a quick prayer just before I leave to go to the track. And on the track I always glance at the clover tattoo on my right arm in memory of my brother, Reuben, knowing my efforts aren’t just for me alone. The night before I run, I gather every article of clothing I’m going to wear the next day (even my spikes) and say a very long prayer with them in my hands. I’ve done this all through my college. I always try to [play] a new song that has some form of inspirational meaning behind it just as I’m about to start warming up. I listen to rap/hip-hop: Lil’ Boosie, Lil’ Wayne, Jay-Z, 50 Cent.
How about any uncommon methods?
I check my heart rate and weight often to make sure I’m properly hydrated and well rested. I take ice baths often just to make sure my body recovers properly and performs at its best.
What do you usually eat?
I eat a blend of vegetables, including chives, broccoli, spinach, sprouts, carrots, green beans, watercress and thyme, all blended together in a food processor. I’m a big steak fan, too, [cooked] medium well.
Aside from training, what are your favourite hobbies?
I like to watch movies, hang out with friends and watch drag racing live in my free time. I’m not a big club fan or party animal.
What do you miss most now that you’re not at home in Grand Cayman?
My friends and family. It’s hard sometimes being away from them for long periods of time. I often go back home and have to play catch up on current events.
Name three things people may not know about you.
1. I am a complete car nerd. There isn’t anything else in the world that can put a smile on my face like a loud roaring engine and a car conversation.
2. Though I seem very quiet and constantly wear an angry face, I’m the complete opposite once you get to know me.
3. I often like to imitate other people’s voices.
Cydonie Mothersill
Sport: Track and Field
Age: 34
Hometown: George Town, Grand Cayman
Olympic event: 200 Metres
Training grounds: Miami, Florida
Ahead of the Olympics, one thing on Cydonie Mothersill’s mind is the weather. Will it be hot, rainy, warm or windy in London come game time? “At the end of the day, though, the weather will affect all athletes, so my focus on that is minimal,” she says. “What excites me will be the crowd in the stadium, that I am living my dream, and the possibility of once again being in the finals where anything can happen.”
What workouts do you dread?
My toughest workouts are always the distance runs with short recovery. In other words, the 500 or 400 repeats are always tough no matter how many times I do them.
Name three things people may not know about you.
1. Even though I am in the public eye, I am a very private person.
2. I am family oriented; I am involved in every aspect of my family’s lives, especially my three brothers.
3. I participated in my first Olympic games in 1996.
Do you have any game-day rituals?
My iPod is a must, and I always pray before warming up. I don’t wear anything that I would consider heavy.
What would your friends say about you?
I have a dry sense of humour. I thrive under pressure, especially when doing regular stuff. I am a last-minute person, but always get the job done. And that pressure excites me.
Cayman’s Super Hot Olympic Pin
At the London Olympics this summer, Caymanian athletes and coaches will be doing something in stadiums, locker rooms, cafeterias and buses that has little to do with competition. They will be trading their country’s pins with other participants from around the world as a sign of friendship and wearing them on their clothing or badges.
The Cayman Islands Olympic pins are a hot commodity as they stand out for their creativity and bright colours, says Cayman Olympic Committee President Donald McLean. “For the London games, the Cayman Islands’ pin is a sea turtle,” says McLean. “We chose the sea turtle because they are an integral part of Cayman’s maritime history. When these islands were first discovered by Columbus, they were called Las Tortugas, meaning ‘the turtles,’ because there were so many [turtles] in those days.”
Driving the demand for Cayman’s pins is that only four to six athletes from a population of some 50,000 qualify for the summer games, compared to countries like the U.S. or China that send hundreds of athletes. With such a limited number of athletes and coaches at each of the games, it drives up the collectibility factor of Cayman’s pins. Often, Caymanians are offered four or more pins in exchange for one Cayman pin.
Designed by graphic artist Jaime Doak, the sea turtle pins have been produced in the five colours of the Olympic rings, symbolising the five participating continents. In previous games, Cayman’s pins have featured the stingray and the blue iguana, a rare, endangered species that only exists in the Cayman Islands.
Cayman Islands Olympic Committee (CIOC)
Established in 1973, the CIOC was formed in order to serve and sponsor the amazingly talented athletes of the Cayman Islands. Together with the Cayman Islands Olympic Fundraising Committee (CIOFC), these two committees raise funds to cover our Olympic hopefuls’ financial needs. If you’d like more information on how to help our Islands’ fine athletes reach their Olympic goals, visit caymanolympic.org.ky.
THOUSANDS soaked up the carnival atmosphere at The Forest recreation ground over the weekend, This Is Nottingham reports.
The Nottingham Caribbean Carnival was back, bringing with it music, dancing, spectacular costumes and mouthwatering Caribbean cuisine.
Yesterday, the Big Parade – made up of hundreds of performers in elaborate costumes – travelled from Castle Gate, in the city centre, to The Forest.
Dressed as everything from sunflowers to pharaohs, with many in feathered headdresses, people of all ages then made their way on to the stage at the park to perform choreographed routines.
Olivia Francis, 14, of Bulwell, took part in the parade.
She was one of around 20 performers who were part of the section organised by the Tuntum Housing Association, with the theme of Queen Cleopatra.
“This is my fourth time doing it,” said Olivia, who was dressed as an Egyptian. “I like it because it is different and it’s fun. My favourite thing about the carnival is the atmosphere – everything is really great.”
It was eight-year-old Chantae Smith’s first time in the parade. From Bulwell, and dressed as an Egyptian, she said: “It was a bit scary but it was lots of fun. We had to learn some dance moves and my favourite bit was when we started to dance.”
As well as the parade, there was music from community radio station Kemet FM and live performances by artists including Barry Biggs, the Abelwell Foundation and Frankie Paul – with acts performing everything from gospel to reggae and drum and bass.
There were fairground rides, bouncy castles, and stalls selling Caribbean food and whistles and flags to help people get in the party spirit.
The carnival is organised by Tuntum Housing Association, The Arts Council of England, Nottingham City Council and main sponsor the Decade of Better Health, and has been running since 1999.
Samuel Nelson, director of the Real Deal Comedy Jam, had a stall promoting the group’s upcoming performance at Jongleurs in Nottingham, on August 23.
Mr Nelson, 34, said: “I’ve been to the carnival a few times and I think it is a great thing for the community.
“There’s a really cosmopolitan feel to it and everybody is always really up for it.”
Among those enjoying the carnival was Sarah Ealing, 34, of Mapperley with her sons Tom, four, and Josh, two.
She said: “It was a lovely day so we thought we’d come out and experience it.
“The boys love all the rides and have been dancing along to the music, and I thought the parade was incredible.
“The costumes were amazing and it is all so colourful.
“I think it’s great that we have something like this in Nottingham.”
Source: thisisnottingham.co.uk
With turquoise blue waters, powdery beaches and stunning sunsets, the Cayman Islands call out to lovers in all languages and cultures. Whether you are honeymooning, celebrating an anniversary or escaping reality together, the islands offer a tropical setting for your romance. Here are a few ideas to heat up your very own Cayman love affair.
Sunset Walk
Walking barefoot along the beach at sunset while holding your lover’s hand never fails to awaken the romantic heart. As the sun draws closer to the horizon, spreading deep yellows and reds across the sky, let the sand curl between your toes. Together, you can watch carefully for the famous green flash.
Bring along a bottle of wine or Champagne to celebrate the experience. Then find a cosy spot in the sand, close your eyes and listen to the ocean. Give in to your playful side by drawing a heart in the sand and asking a passerby to take a photo of the two of you sitting next to the sandy image. Get inspired by the island and recite romantic vows to each other, then seal it with a kiss.
Although Seven Mile Beach is rarely crowded, couples desiring more seclusion can stroll towards the north end of the beach. For a romantic surprise, arrange to have a candlelit table on the beach, away from the crowds. Up the romantic ante by having a musician with a violin, a harp or guitar waiting to serenade the event, says Ashley Vodarek of Celebrations, which provides concierge services for customised romantic experiences.
Seaside Massage
Indulge in a relaxing couples massage by the sea. Whether in the early morning, sunset or by moonlight, most hotels, spas and even local event coordinators can make arrangements for professional masseuses to work their magic near the sea or in a private cabana for this unforgettable and luxurious moment.
Picnic at Botanic Park
Enjoy a romantic picnic in the lush tropical gardens of the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park. While the Botanic Park is famous for its rare blue iguanas, it also features a large floral garden filled with colourful flowers, as well as numerous wooded areas with native trees. With open, grassy spaces and secluded benches, it’s a gorgeous location to sit back and enjoy a bite; just be mindful not to share your treats with the blue iguanas too!
Sunset Sail to Remember
Feel the wind and taste the salty air aboard a romantic sunset sail and dinner cruise on Red Sail’s magnificent 65-foot catamaran. As the crew hoist the expansive sails and they billow with the sea breeze, the catamaran picks up speed, leaving your worries far behind. The catamaran also features a thick trampoline net that couples can sit on and sense the sea rushing below them. The skipper anchors the boat when the three-course dinner is ready to be served. Don’t forget to look toward the sky to see hundreds of stars illuminating the night.
Horseback by Moonlight
Novice and experienced horseback riders alike will be captivated by a moonlight stroll along a deserted stretch of beach. By horseback, the moonlight’s reflections appear to dance along the sea, making the white, powdery sand glow in the dark. As horses carry riders along the water‘s edge, the sea breeze flows through their hair with the enchanting sound of hoofs moving along the sand and waves rolling onto shore. As clouds drift along in the sky, moonlight fills the night with a sense of mystery and romance. Since there are so few full or near-full moonlight nights, Chelsea Rivers, from Spirit of the West, which offers romantic horseback rides, suggests making reservations as early as possible.
Sushi for Two
Put a little wasabi into your romance with a sushi course for two at Bamboo, a renowned Japanese restaurant in the heart of Seven Mile Beach. In this two-hour lesson, sushi sous chef Wonhee Park will teach the techniques needed to prepare Japanese rice, as well as cutting fish for sashimi and nigiri. While enjoying sake, you will also learn the fine art of making traditional rolls. After the course, couples can enjoy their sushi dishes. For a wow factor, order a Japanese-inspired martini made from sake, passion fruit and yuzu juice.
Light up the Night
On moonless nights and in a certain out-of-the-way cove far from touristy hot spots, the water is lit up with nature‘s own glitter, known as bioluminescence, a naturally occurring sparkle created by marine plants and creatures.
Couples can put a magical twist on the romantic getaway with a kayak tour of a bioluminescent bay. As part of a small group, couples start off by pushing out their kayak from Rum Point Beach and heading to the nearby cove. Along the way, watch for starfish, lobsters and stingrays. The kayaks are simple to use and the sea is so calm and clear that even people who have never paddled a canoe or other watercraft will find it easy to manoeuvre.
Once in Bio Bay, the water reflects a multitude of light flecks. Dip a hand in the water and scoop out a handful of these tiny marine fireflies. “You get a sense that this is Tinker Bell’s fairy dust, so it‘s like rediscovering the magic and wonder of being a child again, just like the Peter Pan story,” says Tom Watling of Cayman Kayaks.
Sunset Helicopter Ride
Take a sunset tour with your sweetheart celebrity-style with Cayman Islands Helicopters. The views of tropical paradise from up high will have you feeling giddy. The pilot will drop you off at Ristorante Pappagallo for a traditional Italian meal. Afterwards, a limousine will pick you up for a cosy ride back to your hotel.
Kiss a Dolphin
For a quirky romantic moment, head out to Dolphin Cove or Dolphin Discovery in West Bay for a swim with the dolphins. The lovable 300-pound, 6-foot animals overwhelm swimmers with their affectionate and fun nature. Look out for dolphins pairing up for a playful kiss. Zoe Spooner at Dolphin Cove says visitors get so inspired by all the marine smooching that couples should be ready to recruit a friend or staff member to take a photo or video of them kissing each other alongside the loving dolphins.
Renew Your Vows
Whether you’ve been married for a few decades or have recently tied the knot, Cayman offers a range of venues to say “I do” all over again. The picturesque dock overlooking the Caribbean at The Reef Resort in the eastern part of the island offers a gorgeous setting. Writing your own special vows will add a sense of wonder and magic to the occasion. Then celebrate your vow renewal with dinner under the stars.
For scuba divers, a fun option is having the vow renewal ceremony under water. Accessorise scuba gear with a short white veil for the bride and top hat attached to the groom’s head. Have witnesses bring down signs displaying “I love you” and “I love you too” to use during the ceremony. Don’t forget to hire an underwater photographer or videographer to record the moment. Vow renewal ceremonies can be arranged by many dive operations or through Celebrations.
Cayman Brac
On the nearby island of Cayman Brac, a cliff juts out of the sea rising 150-feet to a limestone shelf known as The Bluff. This locale offers numerous trails and hidden caves as a mysterious backdrop for romance, but it’s the panoramic view of the sea that draws couples like magnets.
On nights when the moon is out, bring a blanket and a bottle of wine and head for the lighthouse on the island. The moon’s reflection on the sea is breathtaking. For a rugged twist on romance, bring a flashlight to one of the well-known caves featuring stalagmites and stalactites. Arrange for a hotel employee or taxi driver to hide a treasure in the cave for your sweetheart to find.
Little Cayman
While Little Cayman is sparsely populated, lovers will still find the deserted Owen Island irresistible for a romantic liaison. Pack a picnic and head across the bay by kayak or small catamaran. The island features secluded beaches with the lush tropical vegetation as a perfect backdrop.
Snorkelling around the island will reveal stunning corals and tropical fish. For a gorgeous sunset, paddle to the western side of Owen Island. For early morning romance, share an unforgettable sunrise together at Point of Sand, a secluded beach on the eastern side of the island. To enhance the romance, bring a picnic brunch with Champagne prepared by one of the resort chefs, says Kimberly Dangerfield from Little Cayman Beach Resort.
From sunrise to moonlight, Cayman’s three islands offer couples a chance to spice up their love life with activities sure to rekindle any romance. No matter how long you‘ve been with your sweetheart, indulge your love affair with the magic of the Cayman Islands.
Source: caymanairwaysmagazine.com
The Cayman Islands may be a banking center, but business travelers stay for diving and the sun.
Best of all, with plenty of nonstop flights from the U.S., you can get there quickly and maximize your time on the shore. So, if you’re planning to come for business—as many people do in this center of offshore banking, which is second only to Switzerland—there’s no reason not to stay for pleasure. With the sand and surf waiting outside your conference room window, by the time your work is finished you’ll be ready to play, or at least spend the rest of the day sunning and sipping umbrella-topped drinks.
Where to Stay
Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman: Often called one of the best resorts in the Caribbean, this gorgeous property on Seven Mile Beach (the island’s longest strand) racks up the accolades for good reason. Room decor is colonial-inspired, with carved four-poster beds and heavy drapes, but the Silver Rain spa (run by Swiss dynamo La Prairie) is as sleek and modern as can be. Unlike many resort spas, there’s nothing clinical or cold about this space, including gorgeous chandeliers you’ll wish you could take home, plush white rugs, and a cool gray and silver color scheme. Get a decadent massage—or a La Prairie facial, or a body scrub using local sea salt—in one of the mosaic-tiled treatment rooms. Then, head back out to the beach, where the resort sets up floating furniture in the surf.
Cotton Tree: The island’s first boutique hotel is made up of four candy-colored two-bedroom cottages that are stylish and spacious. While the rooms are comfortable, even chic, what’s most surprising is the way that this thoughtful hotel takes care of some of the details that drive business travelers nuts elsewhere. There’s no nickel-and-diming here, for example, as both airport transfers and Wi-Fi are included. The guestrooms have kitchens, and you can hire a personal chef to make you whatever it is you like to eat when you get tired of the resort restaurants.
Compass Point: Made up of 28 one-, two-, and three-bedroom condos, this relaxed new dive resort is a great choice for those who want to bring the friends or family down to strap on some tanks. Located on Grand Cayman’s quieter East End, the unfussy rooms have balconies and kitchens, and there are shared barbecue pits on the deck, so you won’t be forced to live on overpriced room service, at least for this part of your trip. This is a great choice for active travelers looking for rugged, independent exploration rather than cocktails in a cabana: You can borrow the resort’s kayaks and bicycles, and dive boats go out twice a day.
Where to Eat
Michael’s Genuine Food and Drink: This celebrated Miami restaurant opened a Cayman Islands outpost last June, and it serves as local a menu as the Florida branch. Seafood is a focus of many of the best dishes here. Start with a small plate of locally caught snapper, served ceviche-style and topped with locally grown mango, or the locally caught blackfin tuna, which is presented as a crudo with preserved Meyer lemon and local fennel. Follow that with a pan-roasted local snapper topped with plantains that are (you guessed it) grown locally. Whatever you do, save room for dessert: When the options are a lemon pot de crème served with house-made cannoli and sticky toffee pudding with house-made mango ice cream, you’ll be glad you can fall back on the age-old holiday rule of trying them all.
Blue at the Ritz-Carlton: It’s a gift to find a chef of Eric Ripert’s caliber in the Caribbean, and while he follows in the footsteps of Nobu Matsuhisa and Bobby Flay, who opened outposts in the Bahamas first, it’s still a wonderful treat to dine on food of this quality after a day at the shore. Wash the sand out of your hair, dress up (if only a little) and prepare to be wowed. You won’t forget where you are, even if you don’t dine on the terrace: The menu is a celebration of responsibly fished local seafood, from a trio of conch to hamachi sashimi, wahoo tartar and gently poached halibut.
Osetra Bay: Arguably the most sophisticated spot on this otherwise casual Caribbean island, Osetra Bay is designed to look like a series of increasingly fabulous urban lounges. The caviar theme extends to the cocktail menu: Settle into the Gold or Silver Lounge, and order caviar served up with either Champagne or the house specialty, Gold Cuvée, a white wine laced with 22-karat gold flakes. Stay for dinner, and you can continue the theme of extravagance with foie gras and butter-poached lobster. If you decide to charter a yacht while you’re in town, the restaurant has a dock that you can sail right up to.
Calypso Grill: Looking for something more, um, local? Calypso Grill, located next door to Osetra Bay, is the place to be for simple grilled fish, crab cakes, rum punch and sticky toffee pudding, all served dockside. The alfresco restaurant is casual and come-as-you-are—but you’ll still need to make reservations way in advance if you want to dine here over the holidays.
What to Do
Seven Fathoms Rum Tour: No product is as associated with the Caribbean—or as ideal as a souvenir—as locally made rum. Many islands have their own brands, and on the Cayman Islands, the local choice is Seven Fathoms, the first rum-maker to age its product underwater in oak barrels. You can order punch made with the hometown favorite at bars all over the island, or visit the distillery for a walk through the process of rum-making and maturation, followed by a tasting.
Snorkeling Stingray City: This 12-foot dive is the most popular spot for undersea fish–viewing, which is a big statement for an island with a dive site for every day of the year. Even if you don’t dive, you should make the pilgrimage, since there’s a sandbar just three feet below the surface that will help you snorkel around the rays. The Ritz-Carlton’s best advice: Go on a Saturday during high season (when there are few cruise ships in port) or any afternoon, because by 4 p.m. the ship passengers will be on their way back to the dock and you could have this often crowded spot to yourself.
Diving Kittiwake: Last January, the shipwrecked submarine rescue ship Kittiwake was sunk in a private marine park on the northern end of Seven Mile Beach as a 251-foot-long steel home for sea life. It quickly became habitation for a 100-pound goliath grouper, massive barracuda, and schools of horse-eye jacks and Caribbean reef fish, as well as divers seeking to get a look at the area’s newest reef. Those who don’t dive can snorkel over the top of the ship, across the main decks and past the smokestack, whose funnel provides a bird’s-eye view into what was once the engine room.
Source: executivetravelmagazine.com
Charles P. do Rego’s book The Portuguese Immigrant in Curaçao: Immigration, Participation, and Integration in the 20th Century will be presented on Sunday, August 5, 2012, between 6:00 and 8:00pm at a festive Portuguese cultural evening, organized by NAAM in Willemstad, Curaçao. The presentation is open to the general public.
Description: The rapid industrialization of Curaçao, based on oil refining, resulted in an urgent need for labor which the small community could not provide sufficiently. The Portuguese, mostly from Madeira, were among the immigrant laborers who came by the thousands from the 1920s until the 1950s. A small group managed to stay either at the refinery or in the agricultural and grocery sector while others came to join them. This core of permanent Portuguese citizens evolved since the 1960s into a group with a strong entrepreneurial spirit, particularly in the supermarket sector, but also in some other market segments.
Today, the Portuguese no longer belong to a distinct migrant group, but are an integral part of the Curaçao society. The second and subsequent generations have been assimilated in the Curaçao society and culture.
Charles P. do Rego has analyzed the process of immigration, participation and integration within the framework of both the sending and the receiving countries. The book presents, also through the eyes of the immigrant, an excellent insight on the outcome of the struggle to preserve their own culture and to adapt and thrive in a new society.
Source: http://repeatingislands.com/
The catboat culture in the Cayman Islands is an important link between the past, present and future.
Captain Kem Jackson refers to them as waterborne pick-up trucks. Indeed, catboats were the utility vehicle of the past in the Cayman Islands. These venerable wooden vessels were vital to survival in the early days — before modern transportation and telecommunications arrived to this chain of three tiny, isolated islands. Catboats were used for harvesting sea turtles and fishing, hauling cargo, and as a means of transportation. They were an important link from district to district and a prime vehicle for facilitating trade, putting food on the table and earning a living. “It was used for absolutely everything in Cayman,” says Jackson, a master boat builder who grew up in Grand Cayman’s district of West Bay. “It really was a lifeline.”
Introduced here in the early 1900s, the catboat is an integral part of the history and development of the Cayman Islands. In their heyday, they were a common sight in George Town Harbour and were part of traditional races, such as the Easter Regatta. Catboats were used to unload cargo from passing ships — before modern container ships came into being — and to distribute produce and supplies throughout districts. At their peak, Jackson estimates there were at least 150 of these sailing vessels on the islands. But with the advent of the automobile and outboard motor, their numbers dwindled, leaving many to fade away in backyards across the islands.
New Life for the Catboat
Today, however, catboats are enjoying a revival thanks to the tireless efforts of Jackson and members of the Cayman Catboat Club. Jackson is vice-president of the 100-strong club, while Jerris Miller serves as its president. Miller, a North Side-native, learned to sail the craft from his uncle and passed on his passion for them to his own son. He credits Jackson with saving the catboat culture. “If it wasn’t for Kem, we wouldn’t have any catboats left,” he says. “They were left rotting in yards. They would all have been thrown away if not for him. And Kem was there in the days when they used to build them in their backyards — he is the link between the past and the present.”
At 74, Jackson is one of two remaining master boat builders on island. He has restored numerous catboats — often single-handedly — in his backyard workshop in West Bay, a painstaking process as most are found in dilapidated conditions. He also fashions detailed scale replicas. A few years ago, he created a six-foot model as part of a display that won a silver medal in the Chelsea Flower Show — one of the most prestigious flower shows in the world.
His most recent refurbishment is the 24-foot Whittaker Cat, built in 1962. Originally owned by Linton Whittaker, it was among the largest catboats in the Cayman Islands. During the course of its life, the Whittaker Cat had been altered to accommodate an outboard motor and clad in fibreglass. Jackson restored the boat to its former glory, and it’s now being used for educational programmes and in various races.
Funding for the project, which took six months to complete, came through a major donation from the Dart Foundation, a longtime sponsor of the Cayman Catboat Club. Miller says Dart’s grant of $175,000 is a significant step towards bringing the history and heritage of the catboat alive again. It will help their efforts to educate upcoming generations, as well as visitors, about Cayman’s maritime heritage. “It’s a tremendous boost for the Catboat Club,” he says. “It’s going to help raise our profile, and we intend to grow each year.”
Along with the restoration of the historic Whittaker Cat, funds have been used for improvements and refurbishments to the Catboat Club’s waterfront clubhouse, located downtown next to the Lobster Pot restaurant at Whitehall Bay. The building was heavily damaged in 2004 by Hurricane Ivan, which also destroyed five of its fleet of 13 functioning catboats. Another one was sold and is on display at Guy Harvey’s in downtown. Jackson says the injection of funds from Dart — along with donations of materials from the business community — goes a long way in keeping these historic boats afloat, noting ongoing repairs and maintenance are costly.
Some of the funds have been earmarked for a series of catboat races that culminate in the Camana Bay National Catboat Championship each November. The first Remembrance Day race took place last year, where Miller and his crew, Ken Hydes and John Bodden, captured first place with the Whittaker Cat. Jackson and his son, Joey, a Cayman Airways pilot, won the coveted national championship trophy after racking up the highest number of points throughout the year.
Catboat Central
The two-story historic clubhouse is the hub of catboat activities. Built over a century ago, it‘s home to a workshop, office and meeting room, as well as a catboat museum featuring maritime memorabilia and artefacts. They’ve preserved as much of the old structure as possible, including its wattle-and-daub finish. More than just a repository of archaic objects, the club will be offering sailing lessons and catboat excursions later this summer, giving visitors and residents a first-hand experience of sailing in these boats.
“They’re wonderful boats,” says Jackson, whose grandfather taught him how to sail the vessel. “You really can’t improve on them — people have tried. They’re unsinkable.” What sets the catboat apart from other small craft is that the mast is always at the front, not in the middle. It has a rounded bottom and a shallow draft. Crafted worldwide, each area has its own particular type of catboat as they were built to suit local conditions, mainly for offshore fishing.
In Cayman’s early days, the harvest of sea turtles — called turtling — to supply passing sailing ships was the first major economic activity on the islands. At the time, schooners would carry a number of dugout canoes for turtling expeditions, but the catboat proved to be a far superior vessel as it was easier to manoeuvre and could carry heavier loads. Its smaller size meant that more boats would fit onto the schooner, increasing everyone’s profits. “It could carry turtles that were 300 or 400 pounds,” says Jackson. “It could carry a lot of cargo; and the more weight the better, because that would stabilise it.”
The first known Cayman catboat was built in 1904 by Daniel Jervis of Cayman Brac, who disliked the long, narrow dugouts as they were relatively unstable and difficult to turn about quickly. He wanted a short, wide, stable boat that was easy to manoeuvre. Jervis took a month to craft a boat that featured a shallow keel, a pointed stern and bow, and a single sail. His design soon caught on as other seamen throughout the islands became skilled at constructing catboats.
The boats were initially made from wood growing on the islands. Plopnut was commonly used for the ribs, a favourite because its branches grew with a lot of curves, while mahogany was used for the planking. Eventually, as the demand for catboats continued to grow, cypress and cedar were imported from Mobile, Alabama, for the planking. The boats were typically painted blue to minimise glare from the sun and to camouflage the vessel while hunting sea turtles. Because they used wood and raw materials found on the islands, each boat was unique — there was no standard size.
Bringing the Past to the Future
Crafting these working boats from local materials was challenging and became a form of artistic expression. Members of the Catboat Club want to pass on that tradition to the younger generation and revive the boat-building industry in Cayman. Fortunately, the transition is already in the works. Two students, Miller’s son, N.J. Miller, and Tom Sargison, are learning boat building and wooden boat restoration in Rhode Island and England, respectively. Both will return to Cayman after completing their two-year courses this year, and will begin building traditional Cayman catboats once again. Their efforts should help replenish the fleet that was lost due to Hurricane Ivan, as well as jump-start a once-thriving boat-building industry in Cayman.
“We really hope to get the manufacturing of catboats up and going. Wooden boats are still very popular around the world. There is definitely a market for them,” says Miller. “We have to get new blood into this. The catboat is part of our history and our culture. We need to keep it alive.”
Jackson and other volunteers at the club have worked tirelessly over the years to do just that by promoting catboats at every turn. He makes sure the catboat is front-and-centre at Cayman’s numerous festivals and cultural events, with volunteers taking people out to experience the boat in its element. Jackson spreads the word about catboats to hundreds of school children through field trips, summer camps and school visits, and says it’s rewarding to see their response. “They are really interested, which is encouraging for us. It’s so nice to see that. It makes all the work worthwhile.” His efforts have not gone unnoticed, as Jackson was honoured as a Member of the Order of the British Empire by her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II for his contributions to preserving the Caymanian culture and environment.
Miller has fond memories of fishing and learning to sail the traditional vessel while growing up. He says the catboat is a symbol of the islands’ early years and a living link to the past. He wants to keep that history afloat for generations to come. “It gives an understanding of just how far we’ve come in a short period of time,” says Miller, referring to Cayman’s rapid transformation from mainly subsistence farming, fishing, turtling and thatch-rope making, to a world-class international finance and tourism destination.
“The catboat represents the old Cayman — and it’s quite a contrast from today’s Cayman. It is an example of being self-sustaining and making do with what you have on hand. It’s an amazing piece of history. It’s important to pass that on.”
Source: caymanairwaysmagazine.com
Iconic Cuban fish restaurant and cocktail bar El Floridita, famed for its daiquiris and known as Ernest Hemingway’s favourite hangout in Havana, marked its 195th anniversary Friday, manoramaonline.com reports.
Located in Old Havana on the corner of Obispo and Monserrate streets, El Floridita bills itself as the “cradle of the daiquiri”, a cocktail consisting of white rum, lime juice and shaved ice that hundreds of tourists sample every day during their visit to one of this capital’s must-see attractions.
“Floridita is more than a bar,” manager Andres Arencibia told EFE Friday, recalling that the establishment opened its doors in 1817 with the name La Pina de Plata and has served numerous celebrities and dignitaries from the worlds of politics, literature, art, music and cinema over its 195-year history.
Hollywood stars Errol Flynn, Ava Gardner and Gary Cooper were among the illustrious customers of the establishment, which in 1953 was named one of the world’s seven most famous bars and in 1992 received the American Academy of Restaurant & Hospitality Sciences’ Best of the Best Five Star Diamond award for its daiquiris and seafood.
But the figure most associated with El Floridita undoubtedly was Hemingway, who stopped by the bar nearly every day during his long stays in Cuba over a 20-year period.
One of El Floridita’s best-loved frozen daiquiris, the “Papa Hemingway”, is named after the 1954 Nobel literature laureate. Served without sugar, it contains grapefruit juice, maraschino liqueur, lime juice and a double portion of rum.
“My daiquiri in El Floridita,” the famed American author (1899-1961) was fond of saying. His presence can still be felt thanks to a life-sized bronze statue at the wall-end of the bar that provides a popular photo opportunity for tourists.
Source: http://repeatingislands.com/