THE EDITOR, Sir:
AS A proud product of Banana Ground, I am extremely disappointed at a recent article appearing in The Gleaner. The reporter missed a golden opportunity to inform your readers about an unspoilt Jamaican village, while highlighting the real problems facing some of the most ambitious and industrious people in Jamaica.
Banana Ground lies on the peak of the Bullhead mountains within the parishes of Man-chester and Clarendon. On the western side of the village one has a breathtaking view of Mandeville and its environs, while on the south-eastern side there is a magnificent view of the Vere plains. The salubrious climate is one which attracts many visitors on a regular basis. Many environmentalists and lovers of nature would be grateful for this natural beauty that surrounds this wonderful village.
This village is a farming community and its inhabitants have proudly tilled the soil for many generations. The many fine houses and motor vehicles owned by the local people is testimony to the hardworking, independent and ambitious nature of the village folk.
Garlogie School which has served the community for over 100 years has produced many outstanding individuals.
Despite its great attributes Banana Ground faces some serious challenges. There is need for a more reliable water supply. There is a need to address the high level of unemployment in the area and the children desperately need somewhere to play.
It is good to expose rural areas to the public, but we must do so with all the facts and without portraying the village and the people in a less than attractive manner.
I am, etc.,
JUNIOR FARQUHARSON
jflawoffices@aol.com
West Palm Beach
Florida
Via Go-Jamaica
