An historic niche in Linden has been restored

Oct 18, 2016 Letters

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Dear Editor;
Friday September 30th, saw the launching of the re-opening of the Senior Supervisors’ Club in Linden, which also coincided with the birth anniversary and celebration of Mr. Howell “Yellow Man” Hinds and former executive member Ronald Knights. This re-opening which was initiated by “Yellow Man” and had been in the making for some time now is finally set in motion. In a “full house” attendance were former CEO of Linmine and present head of NICIL, Mr. Horace James and popular businessman Mr. Joe Barnes. The atmosphere was delightfully charged, the decorations and arrangements of tables were splendid – aesthetic – the club was transformed.
It came alive, reminiscent of bygone days. For good measure there was a red carpet welcome which lent an air of sophistication that all in attendance basked in and felt special. Not to mention that the club’s exterior and surroundings were given a face lift.
Mr. Hinds, in the capacity as president, in his short presentation gave a background on the Senior Supervisors’ Club, an insight into what himself and team have in store and thanked those who have rendered assistance.
The SSC, a members club – was opened in October 1954, built by the then Demerara Bauxite Company – DEMBA. It was exactly as the name says: a recreational facility exclusively for its managers, confidential payroll staff (CPR), top functionaries within the community and other distinguished and reputable personalities.
Its architecture is simple and unique: sturdy, flat and rectangle in shape, it is ringed with louvers ten inches apart and about four feet from the floor to the ceiling which allows for sprawling ventilation that keeps the club invariably cool.
Aptly situated also, it is located northwest of the MSC ground bordered by its great walls and a safe distance north/south of the Mackenzie High School. Also its activities are of minimal distraction to residents who live around and about because of the layout of the inner area where activities take place.
This club once had a much talked about reputation for high standards, older folks still talk proudly about its once glossy polished floor and high society outings – of course those were the days! Managed by a committee of 10, of which 9 were elected through elections and one, the steward an ex officio member who was selected by the company and reported to the company.
The company took full responsibility for its entire operations. It paid the wages/salaries of the workers – bar, attendants, kitchen staff, “char” women. It took care of all repairs and utility bills, etc. Facing a crisis the company was privatized and thus reprogrammed. It experienced changing of the guards involving new foreign management, thus the SSC was divested from the company and left to fend for itself, not even a parting gesture in any form was given, hence the club struggled along until it finally went under.
It was unfortunate that this facility which is still a wonder place with potentials fell on hard times, but there is much hope. This rebirth with new endeavours is a challenge and a bold move by Mr. Howell “Yellow Man” Hinds and team, which ought to be welcomed with open arms by folks of Linden. Making this club attractive once again, restoring some semblance of what it used to be – even a shadow of its once reputation is a tall order, but not impossible.
This new committee has got its work cut out, vision and being creative are two vital ingredients that must be factored into their game plan in getting this club up and moving. As patron of the club, Mr. Horace James implored members what to do in his brief remarks.
He charged them to be businesslike, ensure that members pay their dues, embark on membership drive, work to realise a profit, among other things, since accomplishing these small but meaningful victories will go a long way in not only ensuring the stability of the club, but also position it as a creditable candidate in the eyes of potential donors.
And this is the task before the committee which has promised to put back in place what used to be and more. Rental for various occasions/functions; weddings, engagement, women’s organisations, groups, clubs are invited. People are advised to make use of this facility, to this end it is reaching out to disciplined and responsible individuals, both young and adults to become members.
Also it is very heartening to hear that former overseas members who are planning on returning home are excited about efforts being made to have the club back in action. Observing that the landmark clubs in the town – Watooka, MSC,– once a hive of activities are all in slumber and wanting, it is hoped that this rebirth of the SSC can fill some of the void. Many are of the opinion that with “Yellow Man”, given his disposition and determination, the club will once again stand tall. A chess and dominoes competition over the weekend kick-started the action to set things moving. The chairperson for the evening’s occasion was former parliamentarian Vanessa Kissoon.
Frank Fyffe

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