Members welcomed intrepid traveller and speaker, Sarah Buttenshaw, to their meeting to discover the delights of Cuba.
This is a Caribbean island under Communist rule. It has sugar-white beaches and is dotted with tobacco fields, which plays a part in the production of the country’s legendary cigars.
The capital, Havana, is lined with pastel houses, 1950s era cars and Spanish-colonial architecture in the 16th century style Old Havana. Salsa music plays in the dance clubs and cabaret shows are performed.
Cuba is a multi-ethnic nation, home to people of different ethnic and national backgrounds. Those who live in Cuba are issued with ration books where all are allowed just so much eggs, sugar and rice. This is supplemented by each family growing their own vegetables which can be traded with another supplier of maybe meat or fish.
No properties are owned, but rented from the Government. State schooling is compulsory, free and excellent. Uniforms are also free and at 15 years of age boys do National Service and are then able to study for 5 years, also free, to gain a degree. Girls also have these options.
There is 97% literacy, with 15 pupils to 1 teacher. However, even a doctor earns a low wage with national pesos rather than an international peso which is convertible and therefore worth more. Most people work only part-time as prospects are low, so therefore leisure activities such as baseball, chess and dominoes is popular, although betting is illegal.
The talk, illustrated by photographs, was a fascinating insight into a very different world to ours. Sarah was given tumultuous applause.
President Beth Carrick gave her report on the recent council meeting in Salisbury; 850 members attended and entertainment included the Centenary Choir, a singer who spoke of her work on a cruise ship and a talk by Dame Stella Rimmington.
Member Lyn told members of her wonderful visit to Denman College where she attended an art course. Her work in watercolour pencils of both a cat and a dog drew gasps of admiration. They were fantastic.
Next month’s meeting is a Christmas Celebration to be held at a local hostelry.
Liz Lee
