Buy Bermuda this Christmas

FRIDAY, NOV. 30: Delilah Kelly, a 12-year-old middle school student, called into my last radio show with a request to sing. My jaw dropped as Delilah sang one of her favourite R&B songs.

The texture of her voice was mature way beyond her years. She is known to be very quiet and reserved, so for her to call in and sing on air was courageous. Kudos, Delilah!

John Seymour called in and made a plea on behalf of successful young, black men such as himself for financial or scholarship support. I’ve known John since he was born and he has grown up to be an extraordinarily talented musician and vocalist.

A Christian young man, he is now attending one of the world’s most prestigious universities to master his musical abilities. He has a strong desire to give back to Bermuda.  Yet he needs our help. So I ask; if you can offer any support to John, please contact me on the email address below. 

This leads to the concept of giving. Christmas is coming and we have always been an island of people known for opening our hearts and wallets to give.

Lavish

Many people have raised their children to expect lavish gifts — oftentimes made anywhere else, but in Bermuda. We’re familiar with the phrase, ‘Buy Bermuda’ — this may be a perfect time to help our own fellow Bermudians and do just that. 

On Saturday, December 1, from 10am to 4pm, Home Grown Alternatives, will be holding its 17th annual event at St. Paul’s in Paget.

It’s one of the best island events of the year.

I always get a warm Christmas feeling from the moment I step into the front door. 

The air is filled with various scents coming from a variety of sources — sachets, food and candles.  And once inside the main hall, the music gets me into the Christmas spirit as I browse around the dozens of tables spread with creativity for sale by local vendors.

What better way to spend our hard earned dollars for that perfect Christmas gift for our loved ones all in a one stop venue that is sure to leave both your budget and your belly satisfied. By supporting this event, we help each other in these challenging times. After all, isn’t that what Bermudians have always been known for?

• Shawnette Somner is an educator and mother. E-mail: [email protected]