Tuesday, March 11, 2014

History of our Currency

Up until the early 16th century, when the Spaniards colonized Jamaica, there had been little occasion for the use of a regular currency. Although there was a small amount of gold on the; island, the Taino Indians, Jamaica's first inhabitants, used it; for decorative purposes rather than for trade, which was conducted by barter.

The first units of exchange used by the Spaniards (who came with Columbus in 1494) in their dealings with the Tainos, were items such as glass beads and trinkets, scissors and mirrors.

COPPER MARAVEDIS

Jamaica was not settled by the Spaniards until 1509. Very little attempt was made to develop the country's natural resources and it remained a poor country used chiefly as an agricultural supplier. It seems that the majority of the circulating coinage on the island at this time was made of copper. These coins, called maravedis, were very thin and light in weight and were apparently brought to Jamaica from Santo Domingo. Sometimes these coins were stamped with different marks such as an anchor or key, which was perhaps intended to vary their value according to the supply of money in the island.

SPANISH DOLLARS OR PIECES OF EIGHT
In the 17th and 18th centuries, Jamaica was the bullion centre of the British possessions in the New World. The island served as the headquarters of the naval military forces and the home base of the buccaneers, and as such it received a constant supply of coins.

The coins which circulated consisted of a mixture of many denominations struck in widespread areas of the globe by the more important commercial powers and their minting dependencies in the New World. The main coins in circulation were those minted in Spain and the Spanish-American mints in countries such as Mexico and Peru. Because these coins were generally of consistent good quality, readily available and universally acceptable, they became the most important circulating coins in Jamaica.

The basic Spanish silver monetary unit was the real. Eight reales made a dollar or 'piece of eight' as it was commonly known. The denominations which circulated were:
reales
1 dollar
4 reales
½ dollar
2 reales
¼ dollar
1 real
1/8 dollar
½ real
1/16 dollar

Spanish gold currency was based on the escudo. Its multiples were the pistole (double escudo), double pistole (half doubloon) and the quadruple pistole or doubloon. However, the principal gold coins in circulation were the doubloon and pistole, as the other denominations were seldom seen. In addition to these Spanish coins, gold and silver coins from other countries also circulated in Jamaica. From France there was the gold pistole and silver ecu, and from Portugal there was a gold moidore, half johannes and the johannes. The local colonial authorities set the exchange rates of these coins in terms of pounds, shillings and pence but the rates were different from those used in England.

In 1681, the House of Assembly passed an act to ascertain the value of the foreign coins in circulation. The value of the pieces of eight minted in Spain and Mexico were valued at 5/- while the Peruvian dollar was rated at 4/-. Between 1707 and 1722, the value of the 8 reales was increased to 6/3.

In 1758, the Jamaican Assembly passed an act to make 100 000 pounds worth of Spanish coins legal tender and to have a fixed value. In order to distinguish these coins, they were to be counter-stamped with a special design - a floreate GR in a round indent. (GR represented the reigning English monarch, Georgius Rex, George II). By this act the value of the dollar was increased to 6/8 and by common consent, all coins, whether stamped or not, passed at this new rate. However, the project was abandoned in 1759 as the act was repealed by the United Kingdom authorities and the Governor of Jamaica censured for exceeding his powers in approving the act.


ANCHOR MONEY
By the beginning of the 19th century, the British Colonial Empire had increased considerably, and the problem of currency used in the colonies was becoming more complicated. In 1816, the Imperial Government turned its attention to the deficiencies of colonial currency and sent out enquiries to the colonies asking for particulars of their systems of currency.

By the beginning of the 19th century, the British Colonial Empire had increased considerably, and the problem of currency used in the colonies was becoming more complicated. In 1816, the Imperial Government turned its attention to the deficiencies of colonial currency and sent out enquiries to the colonies asking for particulars of their systems of currency.

In 1820, in response to a request from Mauritius, the Imperial Government struck silver coins for circulation in that territory. The coins were designed and struck by the Royal Mint in denominations of ¼, 1/8, 1/16 parts of the dollar and were of equal fineness and proportionate weight as the Spanish dollar. The coins became known as 'anchor money' because they had the design of an anchor on the reverse.

In 1822, the Colonial Office issued orders for the mint to strike 'anchor' coins for use in the West Indies. The coins were to circulate in all the British West Indian territories where British troops were stationed. But Jamaica had no shortage of coins of these denominations, as the Spanish coins continued to circulate, so the Governor pointed out that the coins were not needed here. At first their use was limited to military transactions as the local merchants did not accept them. The issue was not successful in Jamaica and as a consequence, was not repeated, although the coins continued in limited circulation until the 1840s.

The British government's great attempt to introduce British silver and copper coins into circulation in the colonies was made in 1825. Up until then, coins used in Jamaica had all been made of silver, and the Negroes rejected the copper coins which had been introduced. This aversion to the copper coins resulted in the consignment for 1825, and those of later years being re-exported.


CHRISTIAN QUATTIES
The Negroes, who had become devout Christians did not think it appropriate to offer copper coins for collection. Because of their poverty, however, they could not afford the higher denominations and there was a shortage of lower denomination silver coins. In accordance with a resolution of the House of Assembly of 4 July 1834, British silver three pence and penny ha'penny pieces were imported in that year. The penny ha'penny became known as a 'quartile' or quarter real, and if we accept the value of the real as six-pence, we can easily see how the penny ha'penny came to be known as a 'quattie'. Because of the specific need which these coins filled, they became known as "Christian quatties."


BRITISH COLONIAL COINAGE
In 1839, an Act was passed which stated that as of 31 December 1840, the currency of Britain should be that of Jamaica, that is,the lower denomination copper coins, farthing, half penny, penny ha'penny and penny as well as the higher denomination silver coins, three pence, six pence, shilling, florin half crown and crown. While the Spanish coins were demonetized, an exception was made in the case of the Spanish doubloon, which remained legal tender at a rate of 3.4.0, until it was demonetized on 01 April 1901.

THE FIRST JAMAICAN COINS
Following emancipation in 1838, when the freed slaves became wage earners, there was a greater need for ready cash, especially for values smaller than penny ha'penny. The copper and bronze coins of the British Imperial coinage were still unpopular among the Negro population who refused to use them, so an acceptable metal had to be found for coins of these denominations. Cupro-nickel, which was just gaining popularity as a metal for coinage was to provide the answer.
By the Order in Council and Proclamation of 11 November 1869, and by local laws, the penny and half-penny made of cupro-nickel were authorized to be struck for use in Jamaica. They weighed the same as the English coins of similar value, but had the Jamaican coat of arms on the reverse. As the British silver coins were accepted, there was no need for higher denominations of Jamaican coinage.

The pennies and half-pennies minted in 1869 constitute the first truly Jamaican coins. In 1880, the range of denominations was extended when a farthing was introduced. In 1937, when the worn coins were being replaced, the metal content was changed to nickel-brass. By this time, old fears and distrust had disappeared and there were no problems associated with this change. The farthing, first issued in 1880 was issued for the last time in 1952.

Alterations in the designs of these first Jamaican coins were made when British sovereigns changed, the sizes were reduced in 1937 and an up-dated version of the coat of arms was used in 1964 following independence in 1962.

PRIVATE BANK NOTES
The first bank notes used in Jamaica were issued by private commercial banks in the mid 19th century. The Bank of Jamaica (no relation to the present central bank), the first commercial bank to operate in Jamaica was established in May 1836 but did not issue any notes. The Colonial Bank, incorporated in England by Royal Charter in June 1836 began operations in Jamaica in May 1837. The first notes issued by this bank were payable in British pounds, Spanish dollars and local currency. The Planters' Bank, established in 1839 to serve the needs of the sugar planters also issued bank notes.

However, the Planters' Bank was wound up in 1851 and the Bank of Jamaica in 1864. Another bank, the London and Colonial Bank started operations in January 1864 but by April 1865 it was closed. With the failure of the London and Colonial Bank in 1865, the Colonial Bank enjoyed a monopoly in the banking system. In 1925, it was incorporated with Barclays Bank in London and in 1926 there was a further amalgamation with the Anglo Egyptian Bank Ltd. and the National Bank of South Africa Ltd. This group became known as Barclays Bank, Dominion, Colonial and Overseas - Barclays, D.C.O. Following this merger, notes were issued in the name of Barclays Bank, D.C.O.

During the late 1800s, with the increasing trade between Jamaica and Canada, branches of Canadian banks were established in Jamaica. The Bank of Nova Scotia was the first to begin operating here. Although the first branch was established in August 1889, it did not issue currency notes until 1900. A branch of the Royal Bank of Canada was opened in 1911 and the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce began operations in 1920. These banks also issued their own notes.

These chartered banks continued to issue their own notes in denominations of 1and 5 pounds until 1940 when they were demonetized and withdrawn from circulation.


GOVERNMENT OF JAMAICA BANK NOTES
In 1904, the Currency Notes Law was passed "constituting a Board of Commissioners to issue notes called currency notes for the value of 10 shillings each." This law was amended by Law 17 of 1918 which authorized "the issue of currency notes for such denominations as may be approved…" The Commissioners of Currency issued the first notes under these laws on 15 March 1920, in the denominations of 2/6, 5/- and 10/-. They bore the portrait of King George V and the signature of C.C. Anderson, who was then Island Treasurer.

It was the scarcity of silver coins of the lower denominations which made it necessary for these notes to be issued. Only the smaller denominations were issued as the chartered banks operating in Jamaica were still issuing 1 and 5 pound notes. However, the 2/6 note was destined to have a very short life as it was withdrawn from circulation in 1922.

The Currency Notes Law of 1937 gave additional responsibilities to the Board of Commissioners and in 1940 they began issuing 1 and 5 pound notes. Although Queen Elizabeth II became the British monarch in 1952, the first note to bear her portrait was the 5-pound note issued on 17 March 1960 and which carried the signature of E. R. Richardson, chairman of the Commissioners of Currency.

BANK OF JAMAICA NOTES
When the Bank of Jamaica Act came into force in October 1960, it gave to the Bank the sole right to issue notes and coins in the island. Bank of Jamaica notes made their first appearance on 1 May 1961 in the denominations of 5/-, 10/-, 1 and 5 pounds. They bore the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II and the signature of the first governor of the Bank, Stanley W. Payton. The notes retained the same colours as the notes issued by the Government of Jamaica, in that the 5/- was red, the 10/-, purple, the 1 pound, green and the 5 pound, blue.

One significant difference was that the notes were no longer dated. The only changes occurred when there was a change of Governor. These notes continued to be used until 1969 when Jamaica changed to a decimal system of currency.

DECIMAL CURRENCY COINS & NOTES
On 30 January 1968, the House of Representatives unanimously approved the report of the Select Committee of the House, which had been appointed to study and make recommendations on the decimalization of Jamaica's currency. The chief recommendations were that:
  1. The currency should be decimalized on the basis of the 10/- unit;
  2. The names of the major and minor units should be 'dollar' and 'cent' respectively; and
  3. The change should take place some time in September/October 1969.
The Committee also recommended that, as far as was possible, the new coins should be the same size and weight as the denominations in the pounds, shillings and pence, to which the public had become accustomed. With regard to the notes, it was recommended that portraits of national heroes should replace the portrait of the Queen and that the motto should be incorporated in the design of the new notes. It was also felt that there would be some advantage to be gained through association, if the new notes could be the same size and have the same basic colours as their equivalents in the sterling denominations. The denominations decided on were:
COINS
NOTES
1c = 1.2 pence
50c = 5/- Red
5c = 6d
$ 1. 00 = 10/- Mauve
10c = 1/- 
$ 2 00 = 1 Green
20c = 2/- 
$10.00 = 5 Blue
25c = 2/6

The introduction of a decimal currency provided the opportunity for the introduction of a complete Jamaican coinage as formerly, the coins (with the exception of the penny and ha'penny), were the same as those used in the United Kingdom.

With regard to the design, it was decided that the portrait of the ruling British monarch, which had appeared on the obverse of all coins, would be replaced by the Jamaican coat of arms, with national symbols on the reverse. On the 25c was the national bird, the swallow-tailed humming bird or doctor bird; the 20c featured the national tree, blue mahoe; the 10c, lignum vitae, the national flower, the 5, the crocodile and the 1c, the national fruit, the ackee.

The coins, minted by the British Royal Mint, were first put into circulation on 08 September 1969. They were all made from cupro-nickel with the exception of the 1c, which was made from copper. In 1970 the metallic composition of the 1c was changed to bronze.

The notes were also released into circulation on 08 September 1969. They were printed by Thomas De La Rue Ltd., printers of Jamaican bank notes since 1920. As had been recommended the notes all bore the portraits of national heroes, with George William Gordon on the $10; Paul Bogle on the $2; Sir Alexander Bustamante on the $1 and Marcus Garvey on the 50cent. An additional note, a brown $5 was introduced on 20 October 1970.

Following a review of the island's currency in 1974, the decision was made to issue a $20 note; replace the 50c note with a coin and change the metallic content of the 1c from bronze to aluminium. The first aluminium 1c coins, which were twelve-sided instead of round, went into circulation in July 1975. In June 1976, the new maroon $20 note, with a portrait of Noel Nethersole, widely regarded as the founder of the Bank of Jamaica, was issued and in November 1976, the long-awaited 50c coin was placed in circulation.

In October 1978 the colours of the $10 and $20 notes were changed to a lighter blue and grey and orange respectively and the old notes demonetized. An additional note - a $100 - was introduced on 01 December 1986 and a $50 note was added in 1988.

In 1989, following a review of the currency structure, it was decided to replace the $1 note with a coin; switch the production of coinage from cupro-nickel to nickel-plated steel and over time, abandon the 50cent and 20cent coins and the $2 note. The new $1 coin was put into circulation on 28 September 1990 and on 07 October 1991, new 25 cent and 10 cent coins were released into general circulation. The 25cent coin now bore the portrait of National Hero, Marcus Garvey and was made of nickel-plated steel. In addition, the shape of the coin was changed from round to seven-sided. The new 10cent coin, also made of nickel-plated steel now carried the portrait of National Hero, Paul Bogle.

In June 1994, it was announced that a new currency structure had been approved by the Cabinet - the $5 note would be replaced by a coin; the $1, 25 cents and 10 cent coins would have a new look and the 5 cents would be abandoned. As such the new structure would include the following coins, 1 cent, 10c cents, 25 cents, $1 and $5 while the notes would be $10, $20, $50, $100 and $500.

The new $500 note was issued in June 1994 while the $5 coin was released in December 1994. The new 10 and 25-cent coins were released into circulation in April 1995 and the coins with the old designs were demonetized in January 1997.

By 1999, a decision was taken to coin another note and a $10 coin replaced the note in March 1999. In March 2000, a $1,000 note was released into general circulation and in July of the same year, the $20 note was replaced by a coin. This coin bore the portrait of National Hero, Marcus Garvey and was the first bi-metallic coin to be produced by Jamaica.

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Copy from Roots & Culture By Simone Myrie ( Civics Book)



Sunday, March 9, 2014

We are Best Jamaica... Jamaican cuisine

The Jamaican cuisine is true mirror image of the society which could be described as a melting pot of people and cultures. Just like its people the Jamaican cuisine are blends of cooking styles and spices tried and tested resulted into what has now become the Jamaican cuisine.The Jamaican motto is “out of many one people”. This literally describes the diversity of the people and culture in a nut shell. Throughout the years many cultures have integrated into one, thus cultivating a permanent and nourishing impact on the Jamaican Cuisine.Over a 150 year period about 700,000 Africans were brought to Jamaica. They were chiefly from the then Gold Coast region of Africa now known as Nigeria and Ghana.

The abolition of slavery in 1834 augmented the arrival of other immigrants onto the island searching for new opportunities.Then a few years later came the migration of other nationalities from around the world settling in Jamaica. Their impact on the Jamaican cuisine was huge. They brought their many spices and contributed to the already evolving taste and diversity of Jamaican cuisine. They created new dishes with what food type was available which still exists in the present Jamaican society.The different people have shaped and influence all that is now present day Jamaica.

The Jamaican cuisine can be traced back to the Tainos and Carib Indians of South America who were among the first inhabitants of Jamaica. Fishing, hunting and cassava cultivation were the main source of survival. They are also noted for the initiation of “Jamaican Jerk ” style which is arguable the back bone of the Jamaican cuisine.During the years of slavery the African slaves were left to eat the remnants of what the upper class such as the plantation owner rejected.

Consequently, this gave rise to the use of cow feet, pig feet, chicken feet, and animal intestine among other parts. The Jamaican cuisine at that point in time was influenced by the local spices and herbs that was available to slaves but cooked with African traditions. We are still enjoying the many stews and soups done in coconut milk which is intricate in nowadays Jamaican cuisine. Our cultural ground staples were directly influenced by the Africans in the Jamaican cuisine.The Indians most noted for the curry which they introduced into the Jamaican cuisine, along with roti, dahl, and chutney among others. The Chinese are known for shrewd cost cutting methods and they have used a mixture of vegetables and meats with local Jamaican spices brilliantly.

Thanks to all these mixtures of people, cultures, traditions and spices we have something truly unique, “our Jamaican cuisine.Today the Jamaican cuisine can be found all over the world. Many of our authentic spices and cooking techniques dated back to the Africans is still used. The Jamaican cuisine has been infusing with other cooking techniques in Canada and the United States. It is quite normal to see natives of other countries cooking the Jamaican cuisine and calling it authentic.

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Wednesday, March 5, 2014

Jamaican Easter Traditions Steeped in Culture and History


While American families hide colored eggs and eat chocolate bunnies, Jamaica’s tradition of eating Easter bun and cheese, fortune telling and Carnival are the ways this island celebrates this holiday period.

COMMON EASTER TRADITIONS

Easter egg predictions
One of Jamaica's long established practices is the setting of an egg to predict one's future. It is said if you place an egg white in a container of water on Holy Thursday night by Good Friday you will see your future. This is determined by the pattern which was formed by the coagulating egg white. If the shape formed in the container is a ship or aircraft, it means travel.

The custom of offering Easter eggs, either chocolate or hard-boiled and colored, dates back well beyond the early years of Christianity to the most ancient pagan traditions. In fact, many cultures have also put their own twist to the egg story.

Easter bun
In Jamaica, this is the time of year when people tend to eat bun and cheese in abundance. Though it is not clear how the cheese aspect of the tradition started, bun eating has been around for centuries. The popular Jamaican Easter bun, a tropical version of the English hot cross bun is generally eaten with processed cheddar cheese. Supermarket shelves are piled high with these sweet loaves, spiced with cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg, and bursting with raisins, currants and other dried fruit. For those interested in making their own bun, see recipe below.

Eating buns during Easter is not unique to Jamaica. In earlier times Greeks and Egyptians ate small cakes or buns in honor of the 'queen of heaven', the goddess Easter as early as the days of Cecrops, the founder of Athens, 1,500 years before Christ.

Hot cross buns were first baked by the Saxons in honor of Easter. Early church fathers, to compete with the pagan custom of baking ox-marked cakes, baked their own version, using the same dough as the bun made for Easter. But they had to be discreet in their conversion methods. So they reinterpreted the ox-horn symbol as a crucifix, and gave the buns out to new converts attending mass. And again, they did a good job of disguising their motives.

Easter lily
Most churches and homes in Jamaica are decorated with Easter lilies, which seem to appropriately bloom on Easter Sunday. The lily is a symbol of purity, innocence and virtue because of its delicacy of form and its snow-white color and White Trumpet or Easter Lily has come to symbolize the resurrection of Jesus Christ. History, mythology, literature, poetry and the world of art are rife with stories and images that speak of the beauty and majesty of the elegant white flower. Often called the "white-robed apostles of hope," lilies were found growing in the Garden of Gethsemane after Christ's agony.

Physic nut tree
Another Jamaican Easter myth is the bleeding physic nut tree which usually occurs on Good Friday at noon. This is an often repeated story in rural Jamaica. It is said that on Good Friday, if you cut the tree, the sap that oozes would be a red substance that signifies the blood of Jesus. It is also believed that the crucifixion was carried out on a similar type of tree.

Fish especially Sprat
Food is an important part of Jamaica’s Easter tradition. Another popular custom is the exclusion of meat from the diet for the Lenten period (40 days after Ash Wednesday). Many still observe this tradition and refrain from cooking on Good Friday, with fish as the main staple of nearly every household. It is prepared in every conceivable way: fried, roasted, steamed, grilled, escoveitched and jerked.

Carnival
While Easter is a solemn time for many, there are those who opt to celebrate in another form and choose to participate in Carnival in Jamaica. Culminating during Easter week, Carnival has become a major event on the Jamaican party calendar, attended by thousands of revellers. Kingston’s biggest annual event is jam-packed with costumed parades featuring local and regional calypso and soca artists bringing the music of the region to the city’s streets.


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Tuesday, March 4, 2014

The Power Of The Jamaican Proverb

One of the ways in which you can distinguish yourself as a bona fide Jamaican, or at least a true Jamaicaphile, or someone who at least has some solid Jamaican connections, is by the casual integration of Jamaican proverbs in your regular speech.

It gives the user a certain amount of linguistic and cultural power, especially if the person for whom it is intended has no clue of the meaning, or just has an inkling that they are being talked about, without fully understanding what is being said. Trust mi... dat sweet.

So test yourself and see how many Jamaican proverbs you remember. of course there are as many variations of the proverbs themselves as there are proverbs, so you might find a version and your Jamaican friend will want to tell you that "A no so it go".

Here are some proverbs and basic explanations of how they can be used.

A no di same day leaf drop eena water it rot :The seeds of misfortune are often planted long before the misfortune manifests itself. For example, someone who develops health related illnesses associated with obesity may be tempted to see it as a stroke of bacd luck. However, obesity does not happen overnight.

A no every kin teet a laugh :This is advice to be mindful of persons who on the surface seem as if they are in your corner, happy with and for you, when in fact they could be stabbing you in the back, and generally working against you.

A no fi want a tongue meck cow no talk : The reasons for certain actions are not always immediately obvious, or seemingly logical. Very often used when one has more information about a situation, than is prudent to disclose. A cow, like human beings, has a tongue. That is therefore not the reason the cow does not talk. There is more to it that meets the eye, or than seems logical or obvious

A no one day monkey want wife : “There will be other times”, you say in your state of upset to the person who has dished you dirt after you have given them help and support. You say this because you are certain, that they will need you again, will need to run to you for help, but you vow you will not support them in the same way.

A no so parson get him gown : Manna does not just fall from heaven without some effort on your part. People don’t achieve greatness or success from just wishing it, they have to work really hard for it.

A noh every chain yuh hear a rolling calf :Things are not always as they seem, and so it is unfair to make generalizations based on knowledge of an individual, group of persons or situations. Two things, persons or situations that have the same outward appearance, may in fact be very different

A noh every mango got maggige : Stereotypes and generalizations don’t necessarily hold true. If you have a dozen mangoes and one has ‘maggije’ (maggots) that does not mean that the other eleven have maggije. You cannot judge a person or situations based on knowledge of a similar person or situation.

A noh everything good fi eat good fi talk : Not everything you know about a situation needs to become public knowledge. Sometimes you need to hold back information, as the releasing of the information might have negative consequences

Ackee love fat, okra love salt : All tastes contend, there is something for everyone. Each person can do his or her thing in his or her own way, as long as it makes him or her happy. All tastes, styles, practices and opinions are valid

All fish nyam man but a shark one get di blame: The person, country or situation about which there is a negative stereotype is likely to be unfairly blamed for the shortcomings and the bad choices or behavior of others. Think about it, if you throw a body overboard, all the fish take a nibble. However the shark bears the bad name for eating people.

All jackass mouth white, yuh noh know which one nyam flour: Sometimes it is difficult to tell who is to be blamed for a particular act, usually bad. All the potential suspects are very similar and there is no outstanding distinguishing character which enables you to point a finger at any one.

Alligator noh fi call pig long mouth :You should not criticize or curse someone or a situation, if it is similar to your own

Alligator lay egg but him noh fowl : If two individuals, two groups of people, two situations, two countries share certain similarities, that does not make them the same.

Ants follow fat, but fat drown ants: Be careful how you overindulge in something you find pleasurable as greed may lead to your certain end.

Back never know di value of ole shut till ole shut tear off: It is easy to forget to show appreciation for something or someone, until it is too late. The something or someone no longer exists, or the ability to make contact has been removed. This is similar in meaning to the English proverb “You never miss the water till the well runs dry”

Bad family better dan empty pigsty: No matter how bad and awful you think your family members are, no matter how you can’t stand being around them, it is better have them than not to have anyone to call family

Bad tings never have owner:When there is success, everyone is quick to boast about the hand (real or imagined) which they played. If someone is successful, lots of persons are quick to say “Oh he’s my cousin.” If however the person is guilty or reprehensible action, the cousins seem to fade into oblivion. In the same way, if a project or an event has failed, no architects or contributors can be found.

Because parrot meck noise dem say a him one nyam banana: Sometimes it suits you to be quiet and not ‘show up your colours’, because if you do you are bound to get noticed. A group may commit an offence, and everyone chooses to pretend they know nothing of it. The one who is most vocal, draws attention to himself and is likely to be blamed.

Before dawg go widout supper him nyam cockroach : When our circumstances change, we must adjust in order to survive. A dog would not ordinarily eat a cockroach, but if there is no food, in order to survive, he might just eat it.If at one time you were living a life of luxury, and your feeding tree has been cut, then perhaps you have to drive a smaller car, live in a smaller house, eat less expensive food.

Before beard hang long, yuh shave it: This is the classic ‘a stitch in time, saves nine’ concept. Taking a situation in hand and applying corrective measures early, will save time and effort later, and prevent the situation from becoming untenable and sometimes beyond redemption.

Beg waata kyaan bwile cow skin: Cow skin is a favourite meat of many Jamaican, but it is very tough (remember it eventually becomes leather) and must be boiled for a long time. Usually when you ‘beg somethng’ you beg for small quantities, so the little bit of water which you beg is not enough to boil the cow skin. In other words, it is important to have your own stuff, rely on your own resources.

Beggar beg from beggar him never get rich: If you are not in a good space financially and constantly associate with persons of like mind and like circumstances, you fortunes will never change. You can’t take advice on money from someone who is always broke and you can’t take relationship advice from someone who has had a string of bad marriages or relationships.

Better fi ride a donkey wah carry yuh, dan a horse wah throw yuh:Sometimes slow and steady rather than speed, wins the race. You are better off staying with a situation which gives you results in small increments, rather than opting for one with larger increments of progress, but one which is more risky.

Better waata dash way dan gourdy bruckIt is often better to trade a small misfortune for a much larger one. If you are carrying a gourd of water and you are very thirsty, you are likely to be upset if the water spills. Make sure that in trying to save the water, you don’t cause the gourd to break, as it is much easier to replace the water than the gourd, and if there is no gourd, you cannot transport the water

Big blanket meck man sleep late:Too much of the good life, too much luxury often encourages a kind of laziness. You become accustomed to having others do simple tasks on your behalf. After a while you no longer have the will or the ability to do them for yourself, and laziness sets in.

Blackbud lef him ticks fi go pick fi cow: It doesn’t make sense to leave your own affairs untended while focusing on the issues of someone else. So a country which goes into another territory to wage war to solve that country’s problems, while neglecting the problems in its own backyard is guilty of ‘leffing him tick, fi go pick fi cow’.

Borrow horse ride sweet: While you know the sweet and the sour of your own situation, your own possessions, your family etc, you are likely to only know the sweet, the good and positive elements of that which belongs to someone else. You also don’t have the same level of responsibility for that which is not yours. So you enjoy it, sometime’s carelessly, because if it gets broken you can give it back. It is not yours.

Bottle weh no have cork belong to cockroach: If you leave something unguarded, without borders, not subject to rules and regulations and it is treated as if it is part of a free for all, then eventually it will have no value, and even the lowest of the low will have free access to it.

Brick pon brick build house: You can achieve your goals by taking small steps, finally getting to your destination by putting one foot in front of the other. You can actually build a house one brick at a time. If you want to save for a car and you don’t have all the money, just start saving. If you have to read a 1000 page document, just start chipping away at the pages, one at a time.

Bucket wid hole a battam have no business a riverside :Your status and condition should be a big factor in guiding your actions. If you are asthmatic, don’t go into smoke filled clubs, if you get sunburnt easily, don’t go to beach at midday. Know your circumstances, especially your weaknesses and work within them.

Bud fly too fast, fly past him nest: Everything should be done in moderation, take the time to do things properly, going through all the stages and phases. If you move too quickly, try to achieve the goal without going through all the steps, you may miss the mark.

Bull horn never too heavy fi him head: Your circumstances are always such that you can bear them even if someone else can’t.

Bush have aise (ears) and wall have yie (eye): Be careful how, when and of what you speak, as somehow, through means unknown information has a way of getting to persons who you don’t want privy to what you were discussing

Cheap bargain teck money: This is the concept of ‘penny wise pound foolish’. Sometimes the dollar you save from doing something the ‘cheap way’ means you have to spend more money to do it again, as it was not properly done in the first place.

Chew family bickle, but no bite family story :They say blood is thicker than water, so if you must get involved in other people’s family matters, tread carefully. Get involved, but don’t meddle or take sides

Chicken merry, hawk deh near : Usually used as a threat. Enjoy yourself… trouble is closer than you think

Chip noh fly far from block: There is usually an expectation of similar behavior or traits (usually negative) that children have as a result of who their parents are.

Clear conscience sleep a thunder: If you have reason to be guilty about a situation or generally about life, you can relax and have no need to fear or worry, even when things are falling apart around you

Cock mout kill cock: Sometimes we are the author of our own demise, our own destruction. Sometimes we give ourselves away, get ourselves into trouble by just talking too much.

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Saturday, March 1, 2014

Jamaican Traditional Costume

Jamaican clothes are very colorful and vibrant. The traditional costume is a beautiful outfit of red and white cotton material which is worn for galas, holidays and the Independence day, the 10th of August. These garments are made of Calico, a sort of cotton cloth locally handmade. The blouse is usually short sleeved because of the weather and the skirt is a quadrille like dress popular in the Caribbean islands called by them bandana skirt in Jamaica. The red head tie is draped in a particular way.

The colors of Jamaica (black, green and yellow) are also made into costumes for different occasions.

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Jamaican Mangoes



Mmmm! Sweet and juicy Mango…. who can resist their charms?! Once the fruits start to swell and ripen it is hard not to look up longingly on a regular basis. It isn’t long before the fruits sway on the higher branches from
 their long ‘strings’ and tempt you to eat them, as you find yourself quietly beckoning one of the fruits to drop into your hand. Luckily for me I had a willing and capable tree climber who presented me with sweet and juicy East Indian Mangoes on a daily basis whilst they were ripening on the tree (big smiley face!).

It is said that Mangoes were introduced to Jamaica in the 1700′s when a French Ship was captured at sea by Lord Rodney. There are many varieties of Mango available throughout Jamaica and everyone has their favourite. But, I had the pleasure of a large East Indian Mango Tree in the yard which gave me ample fruits to eat throughout July and barely into the first week of August….

East Indian Mango

This type of Mango grows to a really big size and the skin is green with reddish marks on it. You can smell the aromatic scent wafting through the skin when they are ripe and they should yield slightly when squeezed. If the fruit is rock hard then don’t buy (or pick) it, but if it starting to shows signs of softening it can be encouraged to ripen if left in a warm place wrapped in a paper bag (or a sheet of The Gleaner!) for a couple of days.

The Health Benefits of Eating Mangoes

I can understand why Mangoes are known as the ‘King of Fruits’. Because I took a great deal of comfort from feeding my face with a daily supply of this delicious tropical delight in Jamaica this July, when I realised how good they were for me!

The science behind the pleasure attained from eating Mangoes is that they contain a special enzyme that soothes the stomach, aids digestion and increases the appetite.

They are also packed full of the good stuff, such as: dietary fibre and they are very low in saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium. Plus, they are rich in vitamins and minerals, such as, B6, A, C, E, K, niacin, folate, thiamine, riboflavin, panthothenic acid, potassium, magnesium, selenium, calcium, iron and copper. Antioxidant sources include quercetin, betacarotene, and astragalin.

All these attributes mean that by eating Mangoes you can to help keep blood pressure under control and help to eliminate certain cancers, heart conditions and bowel problems. What is there not to like? Enjoy eating copious amounts of Mangoes in Jamaica!


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Friday, February 28, 2014

'JAMAICA DAY' IDEAL WAY TO INSTIL NATIONALISM

    
 
Governor-General His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen presents a copy of the proclamation declaring February 26, 2010 'Jamaica Day', to Director of the Culture in Education Programme in the Education Ministry, Amina Blackwood Meeks, at King's House in Kingston on Friday, January 15 ,2010

Governor-General His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen, has said that the celebration of 'Jamaica Day' in schools is an ideal way to instil the spirit of nationalism in citizens that is necessary for the social development of the country.

"Jamaica Day provides a good opportunity for all Jamaicans to partner with young people to help define and create the most suitable context within which Jamaicans can be the best example of humanity, first to Jamaicans and ultimately to the rest of the world," he stated.

He said that now is an opportune time to enhance the profile of Jamaica Day, and therefore broaden national participation in the activities in order to align with national development objectives.

The Governor-General commended the programme and supporting agencies for the level of enthusiasm and interest shown in "branding Jamaica in the hearts of our children," noting that it is very important "that each Jamaican has a vision of what it is to be a Jamaican, not just in terms of being born here, but also what is involved in being a good citizen."The entire Jamaica, every single citizen, every man, woman, boy and girl, the business community, should make this the best Jamaica Day,"

'Jamaica Day' is celebrated once every academic year, on the last Friday in February and is designated to showcase aspects of Jamaica's culture through the performing arts, visits to historical sites, sporting activities and recognition of outstanding citizens.

The Culture in Education Programme, which places culture as the context, content and methodology for learning, is used as a mechanism within the classroom to enrich curriculum delivery.

It also serves as a tool for building clubs and societies as well as a device for giving meaning to the performing arts programme of various institutions.


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Happy New Month !!!


I wish you God's blessings, favour and mercy.
I pray that this month brings all the joy and happiness you desire.
May all your dreams come true.

Let me share this declaration with you, it might help.

" I declare that I have the grace I need for this month.
  I am full of power, strength and determination
  Nothing I say will be too much for me.

 I will overcome every obstacle, outlast every challenge
 And come through every difficulty better than I was before.

This is my declaration".
God be with you and your family now and always

Jamaica Land Of My Birth

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Root & Culture By Simone Myrie in Jamaica

I decided to go to Jamaica. We've been wanting to take a trip for the longest time and thought this month would be ideal and the only time i can take it. I had such a wonderful time! was able to relax and enjoy the beautiful beach also went out and ventured to the country side. Everyone was welcoming and nice. Not to mention the great food! I can tell you this Jamaicans are VERY proud of their heritage and I was glad to capture it! overall, the trip was fun and I am looking forward to be back soon....................Love the Land of My Birth...................
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Celebrate Jamaica Day



Some 706 primary and secondary schools across the island will celebrate Jamaica Day today (February 28) under the theme: 'Celebrating Jamaica, contributing my personal best'.

Roots & Culture By Simone Myrie think this celebration is to foster national pride in students.

"We know about the influences from outside so it is basically getting our students to be one with our culture. In a sense, if we are not careful (our culture) is diminishing,"this occasion will help to build community relations and get the students to feel better about themselves and by extension their culture.

"It is to foster civic pride in our students and we are hoping to achieve all of that throughout the island based on the activities that will be done in the schools," he stated.

Roots & Culture By Simone Myrie belief each school will celebrate Jamaica Day in its own unique way.

"It could be a case where they have an extended devotion, a civic ceremony where you have the uniformed groups involved in (a) flag-raising ceremony, a display of cultural items, inter-house competitions, debates, quizzes, discussions or seminars. It has to be a case where the activities they are involved in are connected to the theme," '

In the meantime, Roots & Culture By Simone Myrie is imploring parents to use the occasion to educate children about their heritage.

"We need to get children to feel good about themselves before they can feel good about their country and culture. Show them where they are coming from. Parents need to salute Jamaica Day and be as patriotic as possible," .

Jamaica Day forms part of the Ministry's Culture in Education programme and is celebrated once every academic year, on the last Friday in February to showcase aspects of Jamaica's culture.

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Picture by Khadijah and Marco Daley.

The Jamaican Mother


“Yes man, bruck it”, “You doing very well”,- what the Jamaican mother tells her child who is misbehaving.

You are balancing your mother’s favourite glass on your forehead and she catches you, applauds and tells you 
“Keep it up.” If you are foolish enough you will believe her and continue. If you have one iota of sense, you will know that if you continue, you are working your way towards some sort of punishment.

When she tells you “bruck it man, caw mi have plenty money fi buy more” do not listen… it is a ploy. And when you do actually bruck it, she tells you “Well done”, but that does not make you feel that your mother is proud of you, it makes you know that punishment is just around the corner.

She just baked a nice potato pone, you know di one wid di wetty wetty top, and every minute you go for a slice. Watch it. Some will take one big ol ‘junk’ (chunk) of di pudden and they are seen as ‘craven’ (greedy). Your slice is so thin that your name and 'craven, would never be in the same sentence. The thing is you have gone back five times.

When she sees you with the knife in your hand, having already cut your sixth slice, and says sweetly ‘So why you stop ? Finish the whole thing one time, cause nobody else don’t want any.” You know that what she is really saying is “if I ketch yuh back inside yah one more time tideh, me an yuh.“


And of course the classic is when she sends you for the belt with which she will give you a ‘beaten’. Most times she does not have to do anything, because the process of going for the belt is in and of itself punishment enough. One a dem ol time mother would send you fi go cut yuh owna piece of 'wis wis' that she plan to beat you with. Believe mi, no beaten kyaan hot, like a beaten wid a switch, especially pon yuh foot. It sting fi days.

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Jamaican Breakfast


Jamaica's most beloved meal isn't a jerk lunch or dinner—it's breakfast. These hearty breakfast dishes, from ackee and saltfish to fluffy fried johnnycakes, are one of the world's most satisfying ways to begin the day. 

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"I will still be a Jamaican"


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" LOVE"


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It's All About Roots & Culture By Simone Myrie, The Rhythm Of The
People.The limited edition "Love" shirt will only be available for 7 days and quantities are limited to get printed on time. So make sure to grab yours today before it gone