The Bermudian Magazine

Summer 2014

$6.90

www.thebermudian.com

Bestof Bermuda Awards 2014

Shopping & Services • Clothing & Accessories • People & Places • Food, Drink & Entertainment • Shopping & Services

Shopping & Services • Clothing & Accessories • People & Places • Food, Drink & Entertainment • Shopping & Services

• Food, Drink & Entertainment • Shopping & Services • Clothing & Accessories • People & Places • Food, Drink & Entertainment •

• Food, Drink & Entertainment • Shopping & Services • Clothing & Accessories • People & Places • Food, Drink & Entertainment •

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God’s Country

Dog Days

summer lovin’

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contents

p.

52

Sherice Bashir with Kalli at Chaplin Bay

Features 30

Food & Drink Here’s to the Bermudian!

Bermuda’s best bartender Ryan Gibbons mixes up The Bermudian’s eponymous entry into the cocktail world.

by W.C. Stevenson

32

People The Tourism Technocrat Bermuda Tourism CEO Bill Hanbury discusses his vision for the future of Bermuda tourism.

by W.C. Stevenson 4 | The Bermudian

36

All Ablaze We share our readers photos of the royal poinciana on fire.

42

Somerset God’s country A glimpse into Somerset’s storied past with cannon shots and cricket, lawn tennis and literary meetings, skulduggery—and even murder

by Elizabeth Jones

49

Somerset Springfield The “dean of old houses” gets some love and attention thanks to the Bermuda National Trust.

52

Dog days Bermuda’s best places for swimming, paddling, climbing and generally having a ball with your bestie. Plus our readers photos and our guide to care and pampering for your pooch!

by Amy Penniston

61

Cover story 24th annual Best of Bermuda Awards Our guide to all that is best about Bermuda.

by Laura Bell, Gabrielle Boyer and Amy Penniston

by Elizabeth Jones www.thebermudian.com

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Departments From the Crow’s Nest 12 the scene

4 Reasons We Love Summer in Bermuda; Monster Play Time!

15 Home & Garden

Summer Products We Love!; What’s in a Name?

18 On the town

Hot Summer Nights; 9 Questions for Felix Tod of The Big Chill

Healthy Bermuda 28 Honouring a Legend

“Shorty” Trimingham remembered

through gift to BHCT

City Limits 97 THe Rise of ISIS Law

Regulars

Clockwise from top: The Dock at Waterlot— Hot Summer Nights; Building the new playground for NMB— Monster Play Time!; 9 Questions for Felix Tod of the Big Chill; Afternoon & Evening: BUEI’s Underwater Extravaganza; Summer Products We Love; and The Rise of ISIS Law

8

up front

The Editor’s Page

24 Naturally Speaking

Sunny-side Up!

26 The Consummate Bermudian

The Book Collector

100 afternoon & Evening

BUEI’s Underwater Extravaganza; Celebrating the Night; Soup-a-Bowl; Building Design Awards Cocktail Party

106 That’s Life! A letter from London

6 | The Bermudian

Always on My Mind www.thebermudian.com

Volume LXXXIII Number 2

Tina Stevenson Publisher and Editor tina@thebermudian.com Laura Bell Graphic Design laura@thebermudian.com Linda Weinraub Graphic Design linda@studiofluent.com Subscription Manager Kim Moseley admin@thebermudian.com Fiona Woodward Copy Editor Contributors Elizabeth Jones, Scott Tucker, Amy Peniston, Gabrielle Boyer, W.C. Stevenson, Winnie Smith, Christine Watlington, Winifred Blackmore, Dana Cooper, Monika Davis, Jill Rubinchak Previous Editors William D. Richardson 1930-31 Ronald J. Williams 1931-41 Arthur M. Purcell 1942-49 Ronald J. Williams 1950-76 Dinah J. Darby 1977-86 Kevin Stevenson 1987-94 Rosemary Jones 1994-99 Meredith Ebbin 1999-2003

For more of everthing you love about The Bermudian, visit: www.thebermudian.com Connect with us!

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Published by The Bermudian Publishing Company Limited, P.O. Box HM 283, Hamilton HM AX, Bermuda. Tel: 441-232-7041. Fax: 441-232-7042. E-mail: info@thebermudian. com. Website: www.thebermudian.com. Annual subscription (postage included): Bermuda $29; U.S.A $29; Canada $39; rest of the world $47. The Bermudian is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs unless accompanied by addressed envelopes and return postage. All rights reserved. Reprints from The Bermudian only by permission of the publisher. The publishers cannot be responsible for the contents of any advertisement and readers are advised to use their own discretion in responding to same.

8 | The Bermudian

Best of Bermuda winner Mad Hatters Photograph by Scott Tucker

Up Front

E

very year, for the past 24 years, we rise to the challenge of trying to top the Best of Bermuda Awards from the year before. It is no easy feat and we take it very seriously, which is what we communicate, very firmly, to each fresh batch of judges when we encourage them to go deep, reach as many people as possible and devote the time and commitment needed to ensure, at the end of the day, we have a list of the best Best of Bermuda Award winners possible. The final product, after project managers, judges, writers, photographers, illustrators and editors have come together and worked their magic, is not just a list of stuff well done (though it is that), but also a document that takes the pulse of our island each year and a window into what makes the heart and soul of our community, our people, tick. Starting on page 61, we invite you to take a look for yourself and join the celebration of all that is best about Bermuda. Our thanks go to our sponsor BF&M for their continued support.

But we at The Bermudian are keeping an eye on the rest of Bermuda’s vitals too, and a topic that makes many of us feel a bit peaked is the old bugaboo, Bermuda tourism. The new Tourism Authority has a fresh approach—as well it should—and along with it a fresh face and attitude in CEO Bill Hanbury. Cooper Stevenson sat down with Hanbury, and in a frank and illuminating interview that starts on page 32, discusses his vision for a new Bermuda tourism. I, for one, feel quite bullish both on the future of the industry and Bill Hanbury.

On a lighter note we have a fabulous piece for the many dog lovers in Bermuda with a compilation of all the best places to run, romp and generally have a ball with your bestie on the island.

Along with the great info, is a list of services available, and best of all, a wonderful selection of our readers’ photos. We wish we could have printed all the adorable and humorous pooch pix that were sent in, but happily the entire collection can be viewed in an album on thebermudian. com—which I encourage all our readers to take a look at.

More photography from our talented readers can also be seen in our pictorial essay that celebrates one of nature’s summertime gifts, the glorious blossoms of the royal poinciana tree. In “All Ablaze” we share fourteen stunning shots taken last June when, from one end of the island to the other, Bermuda’s poincianas were spectacularly in full bloom.

Following the success last issue of our piece on Flatts, Liz Jones is back at it with a well-researched piece on the West End this time.

“God’s Country” is a glimpse into Somerset’s storied past, filled with fact and folklore on cannon shots and cricket, lawn tennis and literary meetings, skulduggery­—and even murder! Be sure to read the companion piece on historic Springfield which, we are pleased to report, is getting some Tina Stevenson much needed TLC from the National Trust.

Publisher & Editor We want to hear from you! E-mail the editor at tina@thebermudian.com www.thebermudian.com

What’s your style?

Sunrock by Atlas Concorde

Designer Showroom 7 Serpentine Road, Pembroke. t: 292 8453 f: 295 8453 e: info@pts.bm www.pts.bm

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From the

Crow’s Nest The Scene, pg 12 | Home & Garden, pg 15 | On the Town, pg 18

www.thebermudian.com

Summer 2014 | 11

From the

Crow’s Nest The Scene

4 Reasons We Love Summer in Bermuda

1

cricket game is at the centre of the most festive, fun and entertaining holiday in Bermuda. The island is splashed with colours, ribbons and banners supporting both cricket teams and basically everything shuts down for two days for one big party. Around 15,000 people visit the game each year and this year it will be played at the Somerset Cricket Club, July 31–August 1.

City of Hamilton: Summer Sundays in the Park

May 4–September 7, Victoria Park, City of Hamilton Spend a Sunday evening at “Summer Sundays in the Park” where you can enjoy themed, live entertainment featuring local bands and artists plus a food court, vendor village and a children’s area. Admission is free SUNDAY THEMES: July 6—Rockin’ de Rock; August 10—Island Rhythms; September 7—Reggae Vibes. For more info: events@cityhall.bm or www.cityofhamilton.bm

2

Newport Bermuda Race

June 20, Royal Bermuda Yacht Club The 49th Newport Bermuda Race is an ocean racing classic that stands as one of the world’s premier blue-water sailing races.

Organised jointly by the Cruising Club of America and the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club (RBYC), the biennial race kicks off in Newport, Rhode Island, on June 20, and the celebratory festivities begin a few days later when the boats cross the line off St. David’s Lighthouse, Bermuda.

For the race schedule, visit www. bermudarace.com. Admission to the RBYC during Race Week is

12 | The Bermudian

open, and the public are welcome to view the yachts and attend special functions.

For more info: secretary@ rbyc.bm or www.bermudarace. bm

3

Cup Match

July 31–August 1, Somerset Cricket Club Anyone who knows Cup Match in Bermuda knows there is no event like it in the world! The two-day

4

19th Annual Bermuda Sand Sculpture Competition

August 28–30, Horseshoe Bay Beach, Southampton Join the crowd for an exciting day at Horseshoe Bay for the 19th Annual Bermuda Sand Sculpture Competition and create your own sand sculpture—or just check out this year’s creative efforts and pick a winner!

SCHEDULE: August 28 & 29—Sand Sculpting Clinics,

6:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., learn the tips, tricks, tools and techniques.

August 30—Bermuda Sand Sculpture Competition, sculpting 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., judging and awards presentation to follow with many prizes to be won.

Categories: Families; Children 12 and under; Teenagers 13–19; Open; Company/Organisation; Tourist. Rules: Building time limit is 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.; building lot area 12’ x 12’; one category per team; teams of up to six people only. Judging and Prizes: A panel of three judges begins the judging at 4:00 p.m.

Prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd in all categories. The first prize is offered at $1,000 and there are cash prizes also awarded for the best amateur sand sculptures in the competition.

For more information, contact Nicky Gurret at bermudasandsculpture@bermudatourism.com or www.GoToBermuda. com. www.thebermudian.com

From the Crow’s Nest | The Scene

Monster Play Time!

The National Museum’s custom-built playground in production at Monstrum, Denmark.

Bermuda’s National Museum gets a new playground

by Laura Bell | Photographs by Meredith Andrews

F

orget the typical monkey bars and swings; a brand new playground at the National Museum of Bermuda in Dockyard now offers children a much more colourful and exciting experience! With its wooden 21-foot lighthouse encircled by a vibrant green moray eel weaving its way www.thebermudian.com

through sea grass poles, this playground is as visually stunning as it is thrilling for children to explore and play in.

Situated right next to Dolphin Quest, this interactive playground was designed by award-winning Danish firm Monstrum, which has become famous for its unique and

spectacular playground design. Founded in 2003 by theatre set designers Ole B. Nielsen and Christian Jensen, the company focuses on creative playgrounds including wobbly looking buildings, giant spiders, shipwrecks, snakes and even a dragon or two.

“We believe that playground design should Summer 2014 | 13

From the Crow’s Nest The Scene

441.232.6038

ctx@logic.bm

Building Design | Interior Design | Landscape Design | Planning | Project Management

ARCHITECTURE • INTERIOR DESIGN • LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

OBM INTERNATIONAL

be a reflection of the world surrounding us,” the team states on the Monstrum website. “We see the world as a place full of colour. We meet boys that like pink and girls that like climbing trees. Why only play on a monkey frame and in a sandbox, when you can play in a moon crater or a submarine or a giant spider or an enormous snail or a Trojan horse or a rocket or an ant or a princess castle? The fantasy is infinite.

“As artists and designers and through our experience creating theatrical set design at numerous theatres in Copenhagen, we have the knowledge to combine elements where not only physical activities and play evolve, but also a visual story that creates a space where fantasy thrives.”

Museum curator Elena Strong is excited about the new playground which was in plans for months. “The playground includes a 21foot lighthouse with a slide painted to look like St. David’s Lighthouse, with a 70-foot green moray eel wrapping around it so the kids can climb through its mouth and body. There is also a sandpit in the shape of the Keep Fort and other climbing elements. It is supercool and I can’t wait for the children to play on it!”

Adjacent to the playground and due to open this fall will be a new Museum Playhouse. Designed by Bermudian artists Russell DeMoura and James Cooper of Fungus Arts Collective in conjunction with the museum, the playhouse will feature a multitude of interactive exhibits relating to Dockyard and Bermuda’s maritime history. “Much like a Pixar film, the Playhouse will have lots of hidden secrets and adult jokes to make it fun for the whole family,” said Strong. “The emphasis is on learning through play and developing creativity and a sense of adventure and fits with our education mandate.”

The new playground and Museum Playhouse were generously sponsored by the ACE Foundation.

The playground can be accessed through the National Museum of Bermuda which is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (last admission at 4:00 p.m.). Adults are $12, seniors $10 and children under 13 are free.

1 GORHAM ROAD WOODBOURNE HALL HAMILTON, BERMUDA HM FX • 441 278 3550 • OBMI.COM

14 | The Bermudian

www.thebermudian.com

From the

Crow’s Nest Home & Garden

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Summer Products We Love!

1. Exclusive Bermuda coordinates pillow and parishes pillow designed by Gregory Nelmes, $115, available at Gregory Nelmes Home, St. George’s. 2. Fun summer swings, perfect for the porch, garden or even indoors, complete with two pillows and a matching tote bag, $245. In stock in a variety of colours at Island Trading, Hamilton. 3. From bath to beach, Turkish towels, hand loomed in Turkey from soft natural cotton. Choose from eight different colours, $49 each, available exclusively at Island Trading, Hamilton. 4. Industrial Chic metal stools pictured in vintage blue. Stools $148 each, available in powder blue, grey, iron and copper at Urban Cottage. 5. Waterford’s Giftology collection has products for all gifting occasions. Each piece is packaged in a fun and colourful cylinder with a quirky phrase. Giftology Seahorse Collectable, $80.00 at A.S. Cooper & Sons. 6. Keepsake Lamp, simply pop the top and fill the body with your most precious mementos. Postcards, seashells, wine corks or anything else your heart desires. $172 each, available at Urban Cottage. 7. Colourful, hand painted wine glasses designed by Barbara Finsness, $36 each, available exclusively at The Island Shop.

www.thebermudian.com

Summer 2014 | 15

From the Crow’s Nest | Home & Garden What’s in a Name?

The rhyme and reason behind naming our homes

By Winnie Smith Photograph by Scott Tucker

A

On the Run The practice of house naming began hundreds of years ago with the English nobility whose manor houses, castles and estates bore traditional family or place names. Gradually, the practice spread to the local gentry and then to the middle classes, tradesmen and merchants. Today the name of a house may be decided by its location or an outstanding feature, have historical significance or derive from sentiment, memories or, simply, inspiration. Our homes are a very personal part of our lives; they are where we seek comfort and peace from the world, where we spend time with our family and friends, and where we can just be ourselves.

16 | The Bermudian

breathtaking, glorious view of vibrant green foliage set against a backdrop of gleaming blue and emerald-green ocean awaits Jose and Debbie Cabral every morning at their home On the Run. At the end of the day, Jose is equally delighted by the beautiful view to the west of the property, when the steeple and cross of old St. Mark’s Church are illuminated by the setting sun. On the Run stands high on a steep hill, surrounded by natural beauty and overlooking Spittal Pond, a 60-acre nature reserve and bird sanctuary. (To learn more about Spittal Pond visit: www.thebermudian.com/features/263spittal-pond or www.conservation.bm/spittalpond.)

Upon my arrival at On the Run, I am given a most hospitable welcome by the Cabrals and shown to their living room where they begin their story. Actually, they tell me, naming their home was quite easy. While Jose was shopping at a local hardware store, a fridge magnet with a picture of a runner’s sneaker with the words “On the Run” engraved on it caught his eye.

When he took it home to Debbie she was immediately reminded that their house was built on the run of a steep hill, that they were both constantly running around, and that Jose is known by many on the island as a man always on the go. So voila! They had the name of their home!

In 1981 when the Cabrals were newlyweds, www.thebermudian.com

From the Crow’s Nest | Home & Garden Jose purchased one-half acre of land, on a small promissory note, from his father’s twoacre homestead property. Jose recalls how, as a young boy, he had frequently climbed up into this small woodland, daydreaming of the day he would build a home there for his own family.

Armed with determination and a positive attitude, Jose finally saw his dream come true in 1985 when, while he and Debbie were still in their early twenties, the house was completed. For Jose, their new house was the realisation of a dream-sketch he had drawn for his architect two years earlier.

The Cabral’s spacious home on the hill, with its four bedrooms, three bathrooms, living and dining rooms, kitchen, office, garage and maintenance rooms, was once shared with their three children. Jason, who started his career as one of the youngest actuaries at XL Re Ltd, and Jessica, human resources manager for Montpelier at Lloyds, now reside in London. Ryan is a catastrophe modelling analyst for PartnerRe. Jose worked as an accountant at EY and later joined D & J Group, and Debbie worked in human resources at the Bank of Bermuda. Both now work from their home office.

Jose credits his father, a skilled and highly respected landscape design consultant, with the flourishing garden lawn at On the Run and with the successful grading of its steep-hill entrance. Jose and Debbie are of Azorean Portuguese heritage, their forebears having arrived in Bermuda in the 1930s and ‘40s as farmers and landscapers. The Portuguese share an age-old maritime history with Bermuda, and Azoreans began immigrating here in the 1840s because the island needed their exceptional agricultural and horticultural skills, and prospective employers appreciated their strong work ethic. Debbie was born in Bermuda, but due to the island’s immigration laws at the time, Jose didn’t arrive here until he was four years of age.

When I ask the Cabrals what they enjoy most about their home, they agree that their favourite rooms are the dining room, where they spend quality time with their family around the dinner table, and their comfortable living room where Debbie appreciates their two-way firewww.thebermudian.com

place in winter and where Jose relaxes to read the Bible. On The Run is the name of their home, but the Cabrals have not run from their commitment to their family and their faith, giving thanks for their happy home and their many blessings. They advise all those who dream of owning a home of their own to strive to realise their dreams and never give up, no matter how difficult the process, because the end result will definitely be worth it.

The Cabrals do own another home abroad, but they feel passionately that there is no place on earth like Bermuda. On Sunday mornings, Debbie tells me, she loves to prepare Bermuda’s traditional codfish breakfast a la On the Run. Her secret? She bakes the boiled ingredients in a casserole—a unique finishing touch!

(To learn more about Bermuda’s traditional codfish breakfast visit: bit.ly/Codfish)

Summer 2014 | 17

From the

Crow’s Nest On The Town (not-so) distance, grab the one you love and spend an evening relishing the moonlight at Seabreeze (60 South Road, Paget, 232-3999 or info@lido.bm, www.lido.bm). Part of the Lido Complex at Elbow Beach Hotel, Seabreeze perfectly unites playful and sexy, where sandy feet and salty skin are acceptable and couples enjoy each other’s company without being disturbed either by staff or fellow customers. With its open-air design, the terrace at Seabreeze is exposed to the elements, meaning it’s virtually off-limits during dismal weather but comes alive with agreeable conditions, particularly at full moon. To experience the best Seabreeze has to offer, arrive as late as possible (we think around 8:00 p.m.) when the hotel guests have retreated to their rooms, taking with them any excess noise and underage patrons.

What to Drink

Sangria Bianca—Prosecco, Martini Bianco, peach schnapps, peach nectar, pineapple juice and fresh peach, $46 per pitcher.

Hot Summer Nights Seven of the most romantic places to enjoy a cocktail outside with your lover.

By Gabrielle Boyer

The Dock at Waterlot Inn The Dock at Waterlot Inn (101 South Road, Southampton, 238-8000, www. fairmont.com/Southampton-bermuda/dining/waterlotinn) is the perfect setting for a night out with the one you love—if you know how to do it right. You must go on a Saturday evening, when Chris Finsness graces the small wooden stage with his guitar and his renditions of popular songs. And you must arrive after the sun has set when it’s dark enough to really appreciate the tree at the centre of the dock, wrapped gloriously in twinkling yellow lights. Another benefit to going after dark is 18 | The Bermudian

that it’s cool enough to really enjoy; with very little breeze coming off Riddell’s Bay, any earlier than sundown and the dock is simply too hot. Couples who heed our advice and arrive at The Dock at just the perfect time (think 8:30 p.m. or so) are treated to an unforgettable experience.

What to Drink

Markham Vineyards Merlot, Napa Valley, 2009, $65 per bottle.

Seabreeze Lounge at Elbow Beach Hotel If you long to sip a cocktail alfresco with the sound of the waves gently lapping in the

Coconuts at The Reefs Coconuts at The Reefs (56 South Rd., Southampton, 238-0222, www.thereefs.com/ coconuts) is the ultimate getaway, a place you go when you want to be transported, leaving reality behind. Essentially Coconuts is a roofed deck built into the cliff face of the hotel property, overlooking the private beach and the Atlantic Ocean. During the summer months, Coconuts becomes a haven for couples looking to escape it all and immerse themselves in the romantic atmosphere and picturesque setting. For lovers, the gentle sound of the waves and the salty sea breeze set the scene for an evening well spent together.

To make the most of your time at Coconuts, arrive before the sun sets, giving yourself ample time to enjoy the view before dark.

What to Drink

“Coral Reef ”—Grey Goose vodka, DeKuyper triple sec, DeKuyper blue curacao, sour mix and black-rum-soaked mint leaves. (Award-winning cocktail created by Miguel Verdagoer for the Guest Cocktail Competition.) www.thebermudian.com

From the Crow’s Nest | On the town Breezes at Cambridge Beaches Breezes is one of the best places in Bermuda to get engaged. (We should know; we’ve awarded them a Best of Bermuda Award three times for it!) Cambridge Beaches (30 Kings Point Road, Sandys, 234-0331, www. cambridgebeaches.com) has been around for generations and has an old-world charm incomparable with anywhere else on the island.

Looking out over Long Bay Beach, Breezes, the hotel restaurant and bar, seems always to be doused in sunshine, no matter the weather anywhere else. Take the chance to escape the madness, shy away from socialising (except with the one you’re with) and just enjoy your surroundings. Arrive on a Sunday evening, when all is quiet, giving you and your spouse the opportunity to experience a slower-paced and gentler Breezes.

What to Drink

Merry Edwards, Russian River Valley, 2009 Sonoma Sauvignon Blanc, $96 per bottle.

recipe at www.thebermudian.com/fooddrink/1232-watermelon-tequila-cocktails

Champagne, $63.25, available at Gosling’s stores.

Picnic at Horseshoe Bay

Fort Scaur

For an escape from the ordinary, rise before the sun and head to Horseshoe Bay (South Road, Southampton) with a breakfast picnic in tow. Find a spot on the beach close enough to the shore so that your feet catch the waves every so often and watch the sun rise above the horizon. Skip the plastic cutlery and go all out: pack real china, silver knives and forks and crystal champagne flutes. As you sip on mimosas and dine on fresh fruits and pastries, relish the quiet and appreciate what it means to be truly alone together. Go on the Wednesday before Cup Match, when you have time to savour the beach in all its glory before the madness of the holiday begins.

What to Drink

Simply put, there is no better place in Bermuda to watch the sun go down than at Fort Scaur (107 Somerset Road, Sandys, 234-0908). High up on a hill, Fort Scaur was built in the 1870s for the British army to protect Dockyard from possible invasion by the Americans but it’s now a historical site and national park. Those in the know, know that the location isn’t just rich in history but also one of the best vantage points islandwide.

Skip the happy hour scene and go one Friday evening. Pick up a bottle of prosecco, some cheese and crackers and stage a picnic on the hood of your car whilst you watch the sun slip below the horizon.

What to Drink

Martini & Rossi Prosecco, $18.75, available at Gosling’s stores.

Mimosas made with Moet Ice Impérial

Sunset Cruise on the Water Really the only place to be in the summer is on the water, but of course anyone in Bermuda already knows that. While most head to the usual haunts of Paradise Lake, Gibbet’s Bay and Mangrove Bay, couples in love know that the secluded Castle Harbour islands is the place to be. Go one evening during a quiet week, taking off in a rented boat from Tucker’s Point Dive and Water Sports Centre (19 Harbour Drive, Hamilton Parish, 298-4050 or watersports@tuckerspoint.com, www.divingbermuda.com,) and head down the waterfront of Billionaire’s Row in Tucker’s Town, finally slipping into one of the bays around Castle Island. Anchor off and find a small beach to snuggle up on, taking in the quiet, serene environment around you. Make sure you go well before the Cup Match holiday approaches or else you’ll find yourself one of many boats trying to find a private spot in amongst the picturesque islands.

What to Drink

Watermelon Tequila Cocktails. Find the www.thebermudian.com

Summer 2014 | 19

From the Crow’s Nest | On The Town

9

Questions for Felix Tod of The Big Chill

Last summer The Big Chill got a lot of attention as something fresh and new on the evening scene. Editor Tina Stevenson chills out with DJ Felix Tod and finds out what he is doing this summer to build on last year’s success.

1

Last year was your first year doing The Big Chill at Dockyard, Elbow Beach and on Sunday afternoons at Cambridge Beaches. How did it go? It was a long hot summer. We soon discovered that launching a chill-out event was not at all chilled. We spent all summer watching other people relaxing…

A welcome newness in entertainment! Did you hear that a lot? I had to do it because I felt like there was nowhere where I could go! Luckily a lot of people seemed to like the idea. So now we get to do it again! So The Big Chill is all of us now.

4

Did anything surprise you last year about your new venture?

Yes. Not all of it printable. We made a lot of new friends and blew a few speakers. Good times were had!

Where did the inspiration for The Big Chill come from? Ibiza and Miami. Both places that have strong outdoor nighttime club scenes. I want to go somewhere that feels modern and of the moment.

I’m not down for fish chowder and cedar…I want sushi and beats!

3

5

2

Many people I talked to thought the vibe was fresh, fun and something unlike anything else to happen in Bermuda before.

20 | The Bermudian

What’s up for this year? I am hearing a lot of things, like you’re into calypso. When do you start and where and when www.thebermudian.com

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Summer 2014 | 21

From the Crow’s Nest | On The Town will you be playing? We’re going hard as you can see…we’re on a mission.

Wednesdays—Big Chill at Bonefish from 8:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m.

Thursdays—Glass Onion Band from 7:00 to 11:00 p.m. at Bonefish Fridays—Big Chill from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. at Lido Saturdays—Big Calypso from 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. at The Reefs Saturdays—DJ Felix Tod at Red from 11.30 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Sundays—Big Chill at Cambridge Beaches from 2:00 p.m to 6:00 p.m.

Sundays—Big Calypso at The Frog and Onion from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

6

Other than the beat, how is the Big Calypso different from The Big Chill? Big Calypso is taking the old calypsos, remixing them and adding live musicians to the beats. We go right from the earliest calypsos to the latest tunes from Trinidad. We even play Bermuda’s Talbot Brothers, it’s a five-piece live band. We’re looking for a way to update calypso and give it a fresh twist. It’s Saturday nights at The Reefs with great West Indian food and cocktails. At The Big Chill I play deep house and chill-out tunes, and Joy T. Barnum and Tony Brannon join in again this year for more live music. I’m remixing tunes from Rhianna, Tom Odell, Erykah Badu, Frank Ocean and OneRepublic amongst others into our signature deep house sound, as well as playing my own original material.

7

You are both legends in your own right, though I venture to say that more people know your partner’s name, Tony Brannon. So what role does each of you play in The Big Chill? There’s no master plan other than “Let’s think of something we would like to do or see.” We come up with ideas together for projects—I am a record producer and a DJ, so I do the remixing and choose the tunes, and Tony is a musician who plays guitar and oversees marketing and PR.

8

Is there a certain age-group that The Big Chill appeals to mostly? People old enough to know better and people too young to care.

9

Can we expect some guest appearances this summer? Yes, I’m hoping to make some new friends this summer and invite some old ones back. I’d like to find some more talented players if we get the chance to grow the Big Calypso. Last year I said I wanted people to fall in love with Bermuda again, and The Big Chill would be the sound track to that. I think it kind of happened!

Well, Bermuda loves you for bringing us great tunes and a great vibe. Good luck on a very successful summer season! We’ll be there to chill with you!

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Naturally Speaking | written by elizabeth jones

Sunny-side Up!

N

ow that summer’s here I think of sunflowers I saw once in southern France, fields and fields of them, their heads nodding in the breeze.

And then I think of Arles, Vincent van Gogh and all his vibrant, tactile yellows made possible because of newly invented pigments, such as chrome yellow. The other day I bought a bunch of sunflowers from Amaral’s farm stand, stuck them in a bright blue jug we bought years ago in the south of France, and taking in their rich yellow fringes and chestnut florets, had a long and satisfying Van Gogh moment.

But looking at one of the heads, its petals slightly droopier than the others, a shock of memory shot through me—the involuntary 24 | The Bermudian

who used it as a symbol for futile continual aspiration: Ah Sun-flower! weary of time, Who countest the steps of the Sun: Seeking after that sweet golden clime Where the travellers journey is done.

Where the Youth pined away with desire, And the pale Virgin shrouded in snow: Arise from their graves and aspire, Where my Sun-flower wishes to go.

In contrast, Anthony van Dyck, in his seventeenth-century self-portrait, used a sunflower to denote successful aspiration. The gold chain he holds towards the viewer in the painting was a gift from Charles I of England who appointed him principal painter at court. And the sunflower he points to symbolises the relationship between subject and monarch. Just as a sunflower was supposed to turn to the sun for light, so the subject should turn to the monarch.

Sunflowers had certainly arrived in England from America by the sixteenth century. As I look at my sunflowers, I appreciate the botanist John Gerard’s description of the ones he grew in his London garden. He describes the middle of a sunflower “as it were of unshorn velvet, or some curious cloath wrought with the needle…” and the seeds “set as though a cunning workman had placed them in very good order, much like the honycombs of Bees.” The “very good order” is much appreciated by mathematicians, less inclined to worry about pining nymphs. The florets are always in a spiral pattern with each floret oriented towards the next by the golden angle of 137.5 degrees. As I look closely, I can see a pattern of interconnecting spirals, going in left and right directions. That pattern apparently makes for the more efficient packing of seeds, so it’s practical as well as beautiful.

The BBC, by the way, actually started a second Bill and Ben show in 2001. The new Weed is a proper sunflower, more earth mother than weed. She doesn’t whine—she speaks proper English. What a relief. www.thebermudian.com

Illustration by Christine Watlington

Proustian kind that takes you instantly back to your earliest days. Back in childhood I was, but I just couldn’t remember what I was remembering.

The gap nagged at me until three o’clock the following morning when I woke to total recall—Bill and Ben: Flower Pot Men, a 1950s English television series for children. It featured puppets made out of flowerpots who spoke Oddle Poddle, a gobbledygook, and Little Weed, a wimpy sunflower who whined “Weeeed” from time to time to warn the flowerpot men the dreaded gardener was coming back from lunch. I googled the show on You Tube and couldn’t believe the BBC had the nerve to present it; it’s so excruciatingly twee. Apparently, the series was criticised at the time for promoting immaturity. No wonder I feel young for my age.

Of course there’s nothing wimpy about a real sunflower, either in colour or texture, as Van Gogh well knew, and yet…it does, in European culture, have a wimpy reputation thanks to its apparent habit of perpetually turning towards the sun. Its botanical name Helianthus comes from the Greek helios which means ‘sun’ and anthos which means ‘flower.’

According to Greek mythology, Clytie, a water nymph, loved Helius, the Sun god, but he preferred her sister. In a fit of jealousy, Clytie reported the affair to their father, King Orchamus of Persia, who then buried her sister alive as a punishment. Naturally, Helius now hated Clytie, and as a result she pined away, becoming a sunflower whose head turns to follow the sun each day. However, it can’t have been the sunflower we know today since that species originated in North America about 3000 BC—it’s more likely to have been a heliotrope.

But other artists and poets played with the real sunflower, most notably William Blake

The Consummate Bermudian | written by elizabeth jones From codfish and cocktails, shorts and sports to books and birds and arts and architecture, here is our guide to living the life and having the style and substance of the consummate Bermudian.

W

The Book Collector

hatever their backgrounds, Bermudians share a deep love of their country and a curiosity about its past, present and future. Perhaps that is why so many are keen collectors of Bermudiana books and pamphlets. As dealer in Bermuda books, Anthony Pettit, points out, given the island’s size, an amazing amount of material has been published about every aspect of Bermuda—from history and politics to ecology and flora and fauna, from fiction and poetry to guidebooks and cookbooks, from military history to Bermuda’s maritime heritage, from art and music to antique silver and furniture.

What are the key out-of-print or limitededition titles a collector of Bermudiana publications should have? Of course the answer to that question depends on the reason for collecting. Rarity may be one reason, investment value another. Some collections are restricted to a specific area of interest, but whatever the reason, Bermuda in Print: A Guide to the Printed Literature on Bermuda

by A.C. Hollis Hallett is a must. Both Pettit and book collector Horst Augustinovic, also known for his passion for philately and his extensive collection of stamps, agree they would

26 | The Bermudian

not be without this volume. The list of titles included ends in 1995; however, a sequel is in the works. Retired American engineer, Philip Ashton, whose assistance Hallett recognised in his introduction to Bermuda in Print, has made it his life’s work to record the title of absolutely everything in print about Bermuda, including papers, journals and theatre programmes. Ashton’s cutoff point will be about 2010 so this book will be enormously helpful for collectors now and in the future.

Dr. Jolene Bean, Professor of History at Bermuda College, also enjoys books in the “Hollis Hallett collection.” As a genealogist and family historian, she particularly values Nineteenth Century Church Registers of Bermuda, indexed by A.C. Hollis Hallett, and Nineteenth Century Bermuda Wills 1835– 1913, along with Bermuda Index 1784‒1914, compiled by C.F.E. Hollis Hallett. She’s also deeply interested in the contributions Bermudian women have made to Bermuda’s society. “Nellie Musson’s Mind the Onion Seed played a major role in my decision to write my dissertation on Bermudian women fighting for the right to vote, “ she explains. Another book she treasures for its associations as well as its content is The History of Mary Prince, edited

by Moira Ferguson. “This book brings back fond memories of E.P. Thompson, author of The Making of the English Working Class.

Thompson was a visiting professor at Queen’s University in Canada, and it was he who introduced me to The History of Mary Prince.

This is definitely one of my favourite books, and it’s a must-read for history students at Bermuda College.” Second Class Citizens; First Class Men made her finally understand why her former teacher at The Berkeley Institute, Dr. Eva Hodgson, is so passionate about black history.

Dr. Kenneth Robinson’s Heritage is a musthave for historians and for readers interested in black history. For Meredith Ebbin, former editor of The Bermudian, it’s especially useful for research for her on-line biographical index www.bermudabiographies.bm. Published in 1962 it was one of the first (if not the first) compilations of the activities of black Bermudians during the pre- and post-Emancipation era. Cyril O. Packwood’s Chained on the Rock (1975) is another invaluable resource. As book lover Jennifer Waelzholz, former reference and bibliographic instruction librarian at Bermuda College, says, “This was the first comprehensive book on local slavery. It described the

www.thebermudian.com

many trades which the enslaved population mastered, and it gave valuable insights into the interdependence between the slaves and their masters.” She also appreciates E.A. McCallan’s Life on Old St. David’s Bermuda, as well as many other titles.

Dr. Clarence Maxwell, historian and currently assistant professor of Latin American and Caribbean Studies at Millersville University in the U.S., feels strongly that all collections of Bermuda books are valuable to the national heritage. He appreciates very old books because they detail experiences not usually chronicled. Chained on the Rock is, relatively, not that old but it is a reference for his work which he uses frequently. Henry C. Wilkinson’s histories of Bermuda are popular for collectors, too. Says Bean, “Whenever I pick up this book [Bermuda in the Old Empire] I’m reminded there are two sides to every story and this is just one of the sides. It’s also useful because it’s one of the few secondary sources covering that period.”

Not all interesting accounts of Bermuda were written by established academics. Bermudian William Zuill’s Bermuda Journey: A Leisurely Guidebook, first published in 1946, not only takes readers around what were Bermuda’s best sights at the time but also gives them excerpts from Bermudian oral history and lore often unattainable anywhere else. For writers about Bermuda it’s an invaluable resource. Other earlier guidebooks to Bermuda first published in the nineteenth century, such as Beautiful Bermuda by Euphemia Bell and Bushell’s Picturesque Bermuda, as well as written accounts by visitors can offer interesting, even fascinating, insights into Bermuda’s past and remind us that today’s Bermuda guidebooks will one day become historical references. One very rare title is Sketches of Bermuda by Susette Harriet Lloyd, published in 1835. She spent over a year as a guest of Bishop Spencer and wrote letters to her friends and family recounting her experiences.

It’s prized by Mike Jones, former bookseller and collector, who says, “Every book distills something of its author’s personality and with this book we share the thoughts and personality, prejudices and preoccupations of an earnest abolitionist and missionary lady of one hundred and seventy years ago.”

He also prizes another rare book, Bermuda: A Colony, a Fortress and a Prison by Ferdinand www.thebermudian.com

Whittingham, a colonel in the 26th Highland Regiment at Dockyard in 1857, because it reveals another colonial personality. “Arrogant, pretentious, snobby, supercilious and a bit of a brawler, he’s a bundle of British Empire fuelled testosterone.” Both titles are available in on-demand printed copy, but all collectors mentioned agree with Augustinovic that the quality of print and illustration can never match the original.

Naturally, as Pettit says, art and photography books are an excellent resource for visual glimpses of Bermuda’s past. Two important titles are Bermuda through the Camera of James B. Heyl and Mark Emmerson’s In Celebration of Bermuda’s 400th Anniversary.

Literary novels about or set in Bermuda are few and therefore sought after. Dr. Kim Dismont-Robinson, Folklife Officer for the Bermuda government, values her Brian Burland collection “because of who he was and what he represents as the first significant Bermudian writer of fiction.” Ebbin also appreciates Burland’s novels, especially his The Sailor and the Fox, and admires his fortitude as a member of a white Bermudian family for revealing in his fiction the racial discrimination of his time.

Ebbin, Bean and Waelzholz would all love a copy of The Painted Lily, a novel by Amy J. Baker published in the U.K. in 1921. As Bean says, it “offers insight into the challenges facing racially mixed families, in Bermuda (from a historical perspective), and the opportunities available to those who passed for white.”

Perhaps this book would have become rare eventually anyway, but in Bermuda members of the white community were so upset by its subject matter they bought up all the copies for sale. No doubt they took covert enjoyment in reading them. Today, there is one original copy available in the Bermuda National Library and one photocopy in the Bermuda College Library.

And what of out-of-print books focused on Bermuda’s flora and fauna? Many of the guidebooks and journals already mentioned include valuable information, but Nathaniel Lord Britton’s Flora of Bermuda was definitive, while Jill Collett’s Bermuda: Her Plants and Gardens 1609–1850 is an invaluable reference tool for herbal remedies and information about when various plants were introduced to the island.

Below we offer a list of additional useful Bermuda titles covering a range of subjects that are either still in print or readily available secondhand locally or online.

Another World: Bermuda and the Rise of Modern Tourism by Duncan McDowell 1999

Bermuda’s Architectural Heritage Series, Vols. 1–6: Devonshire, St. George’s, Sandys, Hamilton, Smith’s, Paget Historic Buildings Book Project, Bermuda National Trust

Bermuda’s Botanical Wonderland: A Field Guide by Christine PhillipsWatlington 1996

Bermuda Five Centuries by Rosemary Jones 2004

Bermuda Recollections transcribed and edited by Elizabeth Jones 1993

Hall of History: Bermuda’s Story in Art illustrated by Graham Foster and written by Rosemary Jones

I Wish I Could Tell You: Bermuda Anthology of Children’s Literature and Young Adult Stories edited by Lynn Joseph

In the Eye of All Trade: Bermuda, Bermudians, and the Maritime Atlantic World, 1680–1783 by Michael Jarvis 2010

Island Thyme: Tastes and Traditions of Bermuda by The Bermuda Junior Service League 2005

This Poem-Worthy Place: Bermuda Anthology of Poetry Volume II edited

by Kendel Hippolyte 2011

Nothin’ but a Pond Dog by Llewellyn Emery 1996

Picturesque Bermuda by Roland Skinner 2007

Summer 2014 | 27

Healthy Bermuda Honouring a Legend “Shorty” Trimingham remembered through gift to BHCT Throughout his 87 years, deForest “Shorty” Trimingham was known as a gentleman who lived his life to the very fullest. Parliamentarian, photographer, and most notably a world-famous yachtsman, his achievements were the stuff of legend long before he succumbed to acute leukemia at his home in Paget in 2007.

“Shorty” Trimingham celebrated and enjoyed life till the end. His tenacious love of life motivated his wife, Dorothy, and his daughter, Barrie, to make a gift of $100,000 to the Bermuda Hospitals Charitable Trust (BHCT), and name the oncology waiting room in the new acute care wing in his memory. “My husband used the hospital’s facilities throughout his life and was grateful for the care he received. Barrie and I chose to name the oncology waiting room in his memory because he died of cancer and was cared for frequently at the hospital during his final weeks.”

This generous donation will help King Edward VII Memorial Hospital continue to address the diagnosis, treatment recommendations, chemotherapy, support and education needs of individuals with cancer and their families in the new acute care wing. Donations toward BHCT greatly assist with the transformation of the hospital into a revitalised, state-of-the-art medical facility.

“Those of us who live in the United States but who have strong ties to the island will benefit enormously from the expansion and improvements to KEMH, and I believe it behooves us to support this cornerstone of Bermuda’s health care system,” says Barrie. Bermuda residents and overseas friends who care deeply about the health care available on island can give through the Bermuda Wellness Foundation. As the American counterpart of the BHCT, the Bermuda Wellness Foundation, a U.S. registered 501(c) 3 charitable organization, supports the hospital’s central health care issues and wellness programmes. For more information, visit www.bermudawellnessfoundation.com.

“This extraordinary gift not only reflects the deep generosity of the Trimingham family, but exemplifies the giving character of Shorty himself,” notes Philip Butterfield, chairman of BHCT. “He was known as a man who sought to excel in every endeavour, whether in sailing or in the chambers of Parliament. To this end, his respect for the greater 28 | The Bermudian

good will carry on through the hospital’s care for oncology patients.”

Though called “Shorty,” Trimingham was nonetheless bigger than life when it came to his many accomplishments, especially sailing. Born in 1919 into a family of yachtsmen, he embraced Bermuda’s 400-year maritime tradition of wind and sail. “I was very lucky to be born right here in the lap of sailboat racing!” he once remarked. “Thank God I was born into a yachting family!”

Trimingham also fulfilled a keen desire to contribute to the public good through government service. From 1958–80, he served as member of Parliament, and from 1972–77, as Bermuda’s minister for tourism. In recognition of his services to Bermuda, he was awarded the CBE by the Queen in 1978.

Exemplifying a life well-lived, “Shorty” Trimingham will long be remembered for his exploits on sea and on land. However, his family hopes their gift to KEMH will reveal a new dimension of the man. Says Barrie, “My father cared deeply for his fellow Bermudians and would certainly have strongly supported the hospital’s efforts to provide the best health care for citizens and visitors alike.” www.thebermudian.com

30 | The Bermudian

www.thebermudian.com

Here’s to The Bermudian!

Voted the island’s best bartender in the 2014 Best of Bermuda Awards for a second consecutive year, the versatile and talented Ryan Gibbons mixes up The Bermudian’s eponymous entry into the cocktail world.

By W.C. STEVENSON | Photography by Scott Tucker

T

here is no task is too small, no demand too outlandish when Ryan Gibbons is behind the bar at Barracuda Grill in Hamilton. By the time we approached the 28-year-old with the not-so-straightforward task of creating a cocktail that encapsulated Bermuda, he was already well practised at reproducing within a glass the demands of whimsical palates such as ours.

Jellies, jams, exotic bitters and popcorn, Gibbons has had customers ask for just about everything mixed into a cocktail when he’s serving. Most of the time, he says, he delivers, like when one guest became thirsty for the ever-refreshing taste of Walker’s Cheese and Onion potato chips.

“I couldn’t make them fast enough,” says Gibbons, a graduate of the bartender training programme at Bermuda College. “I muddled white cheddar with pearl onions and a gherkin, added some gin, passed it through a fine strainer and garnished it with little cheddarstuffed pickled onions. Strangest drink yet, but at least the guest liked it.”

Having worked in the hospitality industry in various capacities since 2003, Gibbons says bartending allows him to express himself artistically through a liquid medium, while working in a dynamic and challenging environment that requires just as much problem solving and rational thinking as it does artisanal creativity.

Although offers have come from overseas, Gibbons says he’s “always felt a responsibility to help Bermuda’s bar and hospitality services move in a positive direction.

“It was my pleasure to be given the opportunity to create an exclusive cocktail for www.thebermudian.com

The Bermudian and a very pleasant surprise to be awarded best bartender for the second time now.”

The Bermudian “In creating The Bermudian, I immediately thought of togetherness,” says Gibbons. “It may sound cliché but that was where I went.

“I thought about my family, Sunday dinners, about my Meme’s many baked goods and climbing in the loquat trees next to my Nana’s house. I thought about why it was I left the island in the first place, and what it was that drew me back and has kept me here: family and togetherness.”

While Gosling’s Black Seal rum would be the obvious choice, Gibbons chose to use an item exclusive to Bermuda, Bermuda Gold loquat liqueur.

“With Bacardi International being centred here in Bermuda and the Gosling family’s deep history in spirits in Bermuda, I wanted to bring them both together. I chose Bacardi Oakheart spice rum as my main spirit for its brown sugar and vanilla flavours.

“I didn’t want just to throw those ingredients into a shaker because on their own it’s quite thin. So in the spirit of binding and togetherness I added the egg white and went with a sour-based cocktail for this shot, lemonade days.”

The elaborate drink won’t be on any cocktail menu, but that doesn’t mean Gibbons won’t make it for you. Just head to the Barracuda Grill on Burnaby Street, and ask for The Bermudian.

The Recipe 1 egg white (pasteurised or Eggbeaters works) 1 1/2 oz lemon juice (keep the lemon halves) 1 oz house-made ginger syrup (2:1 simple syrup infused with micro-planed ginger and expressed orange oil) 1 1/2 oz Bacardi Oakheart 1 oz Gosling’s Bermuda Gold 2 dashes Angostura aromatic bitters Sprinkle nutmeg and orange wheel 1. Take two mixing glasses and a shaker.

2. Separate the egg white into a glass, ensuring there is no eggshell in contact or in the glass.

3. Add the lemon juice and sugar and give a gentle whisk for about five seconds.

4. Add the remaining ingredients and one of the lemon halves you kept.

5. Take the shaker and glass, make a firm seal and shake dry. (“I did it like a Ramos Fizz so good hard 21 seconds dry shake, more if you’ve got it,” says Gibbons.)

6. Add ice to the shaker and continue shaking for at least a minute more.

7. Pour into a large wine or hurricane glass.

8. Pour soda water into the shaker and scoop the remaining foam proud into the glass.

9. Garnish with orange wheel and sprinkling of nutmeg.

Summer 2014 | 31

< Bermuda Tourism Authority CEO Bill Hanbury

The Tourism

Technocrat

Bermuda Tourism Authority CEO Bill Hanbury sits down with The Bermudian to discuss his vision for the future of Bermuda tourism.

By W.C. STEVENSON

I

t will come as no surprise to hear that Bermudians are cynical about tourism these days. The public is still reeling from the effects of short-term spending over long-term investment, and the distrust fostered over those years is reflected in the latest numbers charting Bermuda’s confidence in the success of the Tourism Authority, as published in a recent survey by the Royal Gazette. This cynicism might be healthy had we never demanded much of past tourism administrations, but the more the industry suffers, the more reliant we become on its regrowth. This leaves us with a toxic and potentially calamitous mixture: total dependency on the one hand and growing distemper on the other. Times are too desperate for us to be cynical today, but the cures for what ails us seem to remain too numerous and illusive for hope.

In what could be seen as a step towards improving democracy in Bermuda today, control over the industry has been delegated to what might well be called a “tourism technocrat,” an expert in the field with a vested interest in widespread

32 | The Bermudian

success. Whereas a minister was only beholden to voters and public opinion, Bill Hanbury is beholden to the market, and that’s the way he likes it.

Unfortunately, the transparency needed to make this tourism technocracy work has not been forthcoming. Minister of Tourism Development Shawn Crockwell has refused to disclose how much Hanbury is being paid which has raised concerns among the community over his appointment, perhaps unnecessarily. Without an open and transparent process, such assumptions will inevitably be made.

But Hanbury’s objective and the markers on which his success will be judged are clear. In order to reinforce a new sustainable industry, the Authority must harness the twin forces of globalism and localism. The world must want to come to Bermuda, and Bermuda must want to welcome it with organic tourism products, world-class hospitality and a touch of colonial nostalgia. For all intents and purposes, Hanbury seems to recognise this. The question, as always, is whether he can deliver. www.thebermudian.com

Governments around the world are now suffering the con-

What are we doing wrong?

One: people want to shut the doors here in November and open back up in April when the cruise ships come in. Au contraire! Do you factor in the decline of tourism, and when will we stop the think they shut the doors in Syracuse, Buffalo or Milwaukee for six spending and start investing? months out of the year? Absolutely not. We cannot consider ourselves a seasonal destination, which we’ve done. We’ve basically written off One of the things I’ve noticed since I’ve been here is the fact that half of the year and so what happens is you end up... [He grabs my legal we are really good at short-term investments. But they’re usually at the pad again, this time drawing a slope expense of the long-term sustainable up and a slope down, like a mountain, programmes. And we’ve just got to illustrating the drop-off in tourism stop doing that. There have been a lot during shoulder months.] of people who have come to me and "The reality is, not only have we ...so why in God’s name would we said, “Why aren’t we spending money declined in the last 30 years but we just say this is okay? This is what the on this?” or “Why aren’t we spending have fallen completely behind the rest BTA is gonna be doing, start filling money on this event or that event?” of the global tourism economy. We those valleys. We don’t need to worry We’re just not doing it. We’re just about July and August. Let’s think not going to do it the way we used just haven’t been smart about how we about how we’re going to fill these to do it. If it’s not generating tourism promote Bermuda to the world." valleys. So, all of our marketing effort dollars, if it’s not giving us image and all of our work from a brand push across our brand channels, we’re perspective need to be filling those not gonna pay for it anymore. To go valleys. And I’ll tell you, each one of spend a million dollars for Beyonce is those valleys may be worth a hundred million dollars to the economy, not something that we need to be doing. It just doesn’t make any sense. just doing that could be worth hundreds of millions of dollars.

Beyonce can be seen countless times in the United States. There are other examples with smaller price tags, but they all add up, so we’re just not going to be investing in “nice” events or “nice” activities if they’re And how do we do that? not generating substantive tourism revenue. It’s just that simple. So, Again, it goes back to kind of the demand side of the equation. from that perspective alone we’re already doing a better job of investing You’ve gotta do a better job with PR, you’ve gotta do a better job with in our future. social media, you’ve gotta do a better job with advertising and the way This is a two-pronged problem for us: you’ve got a demand probwe manage our creative. I don’t think it’s been well coordinated. lem in the marketplace, which has stopped coming to Bermuda; it’s just that simple. I mean we have not got the job done; it’s obvious. If We do have an amazing product that lends itself to what is you’ve looked at what’s happened from a numbers perspective over the now being called the “Instagram” market. The reason that past 30 years, I mean… [He begins drawing a furious chart on my legal trend is taking off is because it’s free advertising. If a person pad.] What’s happened is: in the last 30 years the international tourism you follow takes a picture of herself in a skimpy bikini on a economy has doubled. There’s been a huge increase in international gorgeous Bermuda beach, that is exposure earned at no exvisitation globally. Dubai, Dubrovnik, Abu Dhabi, 20 years ago nobody pense. How will we be using social media to our advantage? even knew, well you might have known about Dubrovnik, but Abu So here’s the problem. Our digital footprint in the video and photoDhabi? It was not a destination. It was a patch in the sand. So the realgraphic world is abysmal, in relative terms to other resort destinations. ity is, not only have we declined in the last 30 years but we have fallen So we’re going to be very entrepreneurial and very aggressive about completely behind the rest of the global tourism economy. We just improving our video library, improving our photo libraries, and actually haven’t been smart about how we promote Bermuda to the world. We using them in messaging. have allowed ourselves to live on our laurels. We’re still living on the Any visitor that’s making a decision is usually making it based on a vilaurels of the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s, and the entire marketplace moved by sual cue, a visual stimulant that they see and say: “Ah, that looks great!” us. And the reality is we really didn’t do what needed to be done to stay We don’t market like that though. We’re not marketing like that, and so contemporary in the market.

I mean just kinda getting up into the twenty-first century and marketThe second part of the challenge is on the product side. In my opining to the twenty-first century, and again, this is…I don’t believe…I’m ion, we still have all the great beaches. All of the great resorts? Not as not blaming the agency in London or other PR firms or ad agencies or much... We still have great golf courses; we still have this incredible amLou Hammond in New York; I’m blaming us. They managed us. We biance that is Bermuda, just like it was here in the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s, so haven’t managed them. We’re gonna flip that equation on its head and I’m very bullish on the product actually. People have said, “Well there’re start really managing these people. We have, like, eleven advertising not enough restaurants, there’re not enough hotels, there’s not enough agencies, PR firms or representative firms that are all over the world that of this, there’s not enough of that.” Well, you’re talking to a guy who are representing us, and they’re sitting out there like that. None of them promoted Syracuse and Buffalo, New York, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, are talking to each other. so don’t tell me how bad the product is here. sequences of irresponsible spending policies that failed to address long-term sustainability. Was this a contributing

www.thebermudian.com

Summer 2014 | 33

Does our tourism product bring to mind the saying: “A camel is a horse designed by committee”?

Exactly. Those days are over. I mean, nobody is calling me up and telling me that my marketing ideas are good ideas or bad ideas because I’m not taking any of those phone calls. I’m not a politician; I’m a marketing guy, and for better or worse that’s what I’m gonna go on, and my success will be judged by the number of people that get off airplanes and the number of people that get off cruise lines.

number-one thing I’m listening to is the market. Whatever the market’s telling me is what I’m going to do. I’m going to respond to that.

I’m not gonna respond to, you know, which particular political party may be on top on any particular day. I’m going to respond to what the market is saying about what it wants.

So let’s go on to that, the market.

There is a very big trend towards ecotourism today. One of the interesting stats that came out of a traveltrends survey recently was that over

here. We’ve tried to tell them what experience they’re going to have. Those days are over.

We won’t be around at all if we keep trying to curate what everyone wants to have done. We need to give them the information and then let them do their own thing, let them dig in, and touch, and feel, and see and experience Bermuda.

We have to connect the dots for people so that they can actually discover this culture, the performing arts, the visual arts, the culinary delights. We have not done a very good job at that. People get off the plane and we haven’t connected the dots for them.

Is that where the BTA can succeed

60 percent of British tourists said that

where the Department of Tourism

they were “very concerned” about the

failed?

environmental impact of their trip, but

You mentioned that people have to

I think so. We’re in this for the long haul and we’re focusing on the long-term brandbuilding versus the one-offs that the ministry became known for. And I don’t want to say that in a bad way, I mean, that’s just the way it was. Also, we’re not here to appease government constituents. I have a reverence for the market. I listen to the market and you know what, I appreciate what people are saying around here and I want to take input from people and I really do value it, but the

fewer than 30 percent of those tour-

create their own experience and that

ists ever specifically inquired about

we don’t want to be curating that. I

environmental impact. Should we be

would say that we are almost inad-

catering to this trend, to the travel-

vertently curating that with the way

ler’s desire for more of an authentic,

that we move our tourists around the

unspoiled environment to explore?

island. We can’t keep sending tourists

Absolutely. The global consumer today, they want to touch it, feel it and experience it. They don’t want it curated; they’ll curate it themselves. They are smart enough. What we’ve tried to do is curate their experience

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the infrastructure to get these people to these organic, sustainable tourism products?

It’s a big, big issue, and something that the BTA’s going to weigh in on at some point, once we get our sea legs under us a little better. When a visitor comes here, hopefully we’re going to give them better information to connect these dots. We have interactive maps; we have [smartphone] apps; our website becomes more robust; even the collateral materials we’re producing will be better. Bus schedules, ferry schedules, we’re gonna actually begin to work on those kinds of things.

But you have also got to give them additional alternatives. I’m not going to get into the rent-a-car debate. We’ll let other people decide. But for all the complaining about the traffic here, that tourists shouldn’t drive renta-cars, what it does is necessitate great public transit. It’s not an option. It’s an essential part of the destination that we have great public transit because we don’t have rent-a-cars; we don’t have hotel shuttle buses; it’s difficult to walk on the roads here and it’s a very difficult environment for cyclists. To put mopeds in the hands of visitors is not always the best of ideas. Even with rental cars...I mean...I’m an American. Many of our visitors are Americans. For me to learn to drive on the lefthand side of the road is a very difficult thing www.thebermudian.com

to do. It’s not easy. So there’re a lot of barriers to visitors around transportation, whether it’s bikes, motor scooters, no rental cars—limited opportunities to get around the way a lot of people get around urban destinations.

So with all that said we have a great public transit system, when it works. We’ve just got make sure it works all the time. So I would suggest to you, and anybody who had any common sense about the tourism economy would suggest, that since you have very limited transit options for the general public and for our visitors, you better make sure the transit is an essential service, and I’ll leave it at that. I’m not trying to get in a fight with management or the labour union or anybody like that, but the reality is that if we want to be a top-notch destination, visitors demand stability, predictability and efficiency. If you don’t have those three things, you’ll see it in the market. The market could care less about what the unions believe, what management believes; it could care less. They’ve already made the decision to go somewhere else.

You mentioned when you first came on that you wanted to go after the

luxury market. What does that mean for training, for entertainment, for our attractions, for our infrastructure, for sustainability? How does that target

what Parliament says and what everyone else is saying around here, the economists, that it’s the only part of the economy that really can grow organically.

audience inform everything else down the line?

That we can rely on for years to come?

We need to do a better job of nurturing our great music groups, our great dance groups.

We have not done a great job with that, so the BTA is trying to nurture more of that with some of the grants that you’re gonna see us award. There [needs to be] more emphasis on arts and culture, on the visual and performing arts. And that’s what the luxury traveller wants by the way. They’re like everybody else, they’re experiential in nature. They want to touch it, feel it, see it, hear it, taste it; that’s what this, that’s what the market is going to. It’s no longer a curated world.

Exactly. Tourism doesn’t go with the ebb and flow of the economics of Wall Street or whatever they may be doing in insurance and reinsurance. Although those are important industries, this is something that is indigenous to us and we can control our own destiny when it comes to this. It is also something where you can create jobs for the next generations of Bermudians. You don’t need people from offshore; you don’t need experts from afar. We are our own experts when it comes to tourism, and there’s a whole generation of kids sitting in schools around here that need jobs. For the next generation, I’m convinced that the tourism economy can provide familysustaining, upwardly mobile jobs that people can be proud of, so you’re gonna see us doing a lot of work in the schools and a lot of work on-island to better promote the fact that tourism is fundamental to our economy.

What can we do in small ways in practical terms every day to help the tourism product?

I’d like to call it “Team Bermuda.” There oughta be 60,000-plus residents here who care about the tourism product. It’s the other leg of the economy and I believe if you listen to

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A glimpse into Somerset’s storied past with cannon shots and cricket, lawn tennis and literary meetings, skulduggery— and even murder

Illustration by Adolph Treidler from Residence in Bermuda, 1936

T

www.thebermudian.com

By Elizabeth Jones

here is a theory Somerset is named after Admiral Sir George Somers, who so appreciated this part of Bermuda his colleagues jokingly referred to it as “Sommers-seat.” However, neither William Strachey’s True Reportory nor Silvester Jourdain’s Discovery of the Bermudas, two narratives describing the wreck of the Sea Venture, mentions this. Nevertheless, it is true that shortly after the shipwreck Somers built a small boat which he used for fishing and for exploring the whole of Bermuda. As a result of his explorations, he was able to sketch out a map and sure enough included on it is the outline of the peninsula we now know as Wreck Hill and the island of Somerset.

There’s no doubt, then, he sailed into the bays and natural harbours of the western end of the island, and it’s easy to imagine he appreciated the mangrove-edged inlets of Ely’s Harbour and the curve of Mangrove Bay, both for their beauty, untouched by development, and for their shelter. With his seafaring prowess, he must have soon become expert at negotiating the maze of reefs and recognising the cuts that would allow safe access to Somerset.

Also, he would have noticed that going in the direction of Somerset usually meant travelling upwind, a fact that has caused generations of Bermudians to refer to Somerset as “up country.”

Six years after Somers’s death, the name, Somerset, appeared on another map of the island: Richard Norwood’s. When Daniel Tucker was governor, Norwood was mandatSummer 2014 | 43

ed by the Somers Isle Company to survey the whole of Bermuda in order to allocate land to investors in London. He divided it into shares and tribes, giving 50 shares to each tribe with shares consisting of 25 acres each. However, land was left over. This overplus of some 200 acres fell between Southampton and Sandys parishes and consisted of, to quote Norwood, “a beautiful valley of fat and lustye soyle.”

Tucker had been promised three acres of land as a bonus for his governorship. But he was so tempted by the overplus he caused a scandal by claiming the whole of it and by building a magnificent cedar house for himself. After some tense negotiation with the Company in London, the overplus was divided into seven parts, three parts going to Tucker (including the house), and the remainder to the church as glebe land divided between the two parishes.

Whereas Somers would have seen Somerset as open land without house or person upon it, today we see a lively community, firmly convinced their part of Bermuda is God’s country, and an intriguing mix of architecture whose design ranges from imperial public buildings, to gracious residences, to rustic cottages.

What is architecture but a kind of biography?

Certainly many of Somerset’s buildings give tantalising glimpses of events of centuries ago: cannon shots and cricket, for example, lawn tennis and demonstrations, literary meetings and skulduggery—even murder.

This article will look at some of Somerset’s characters who in one way or another were associated with these buildings, to see what part they played, however briefly, in Somerset’s history.

Wreck Hill & Ely’s Harbour

Some people argue that while Wreck Hill is definitely in Sandys Parish, it is not on Somerset Island because it’s located before the bridge. (Somerset Bridge was one of the first three to be constructed in Bermuda, appearing on John Smith’s map of 1624.) But its

Ely's Harbour, once a refuge for smugglers and illicit traders, was named after William Eli who settled here in 1621. Left: Wreck House.

historical significance was entirely due to its view of Ely’s Harbour, as well as of the ocean, and for that reason is closely associated with Somerset. Originally, it was known as “Flemish Wreck” after a Dutch frigate ran aground the reefs in 1618. According to Terry Tucker’s Bermuda: Today and Yesterday, a messenger told the governor (one of the six temporary governors of the time whose neglect and selfinterest were pushing Bermuda into a state of decline) the Dutch ship had an abundance of treasure. In fact there was just £20, which the governor pocketed. So began the Bermudian tradition of salvaging ships. In 1684, Jeremiah Burrows of Wreck Hill was brought before the governor for bringing into Ely’s Harbour a French ketch that had run aground, and then stealing the goods upon it. Local lore has it that bonfires on Wreck Hill were deliberately

Surrounded by a maze of reefs, Ely’s Harbour was a refuge for smugglers and illicit traders who would stop here first before declaring a fraction of their cargo in St. George’s.

One form of contraband was rum, crucial for the local tavern keepers who were mostly women whose clients were mariners and local craftsmen.

44 | The Bermudian

lit to lure ships onto the rocks. Certainly the practice of salvaging ships went on well into the nineteenth century, as was noticed by William Sydes who was a convict at Dockyard.

In his Account of Life on the Convict Hulks, he writes, “If a vessel is on the rocks, all the fishing boats make to her, weather permitting, to see what they can purloin. They rejoice at such misfortunes and call her ‘a turtle in the net’ and all they try is to cause a confusion in the ship so as to get a load and off.”

A fort at Wreck Hill, known as Gun Point, also played a role in the American War of Independence, as indeed did the Tucker family who by this time had proliferated so much they became known by their estates—there were Tuckers of The Grove in Southampton, of Scrogham’s Point, of Church Hill, and of the bridge in Somerset. Colonel Henry Tucker of The Grove and Henry Tucker of Bridge House, both the colonel’s cousin and his son-in-law, were for pragmatic reasons supporters of the revolutionaries. When the Congress placed an embargo on all trade with Britain, Bermuda of course was adversely affected. Theoretically, the island was on Britain’s side. However, the Tuckers of The Grove (a house on the site of Daniel Tucker’s house where Port Royal Golf Course is now) and Bridge House (subsequently St. James’s Rectory) took part in the Gunpowder Steal of 1775 when gunpowder was taken from the www.thebermudian.com

gunpowder cavern at the British garrison and sneaked by boat to America in exchange for the lifting of trading restrictions. According to William Zuill’s Bermuda Journey, “…on the eve of the historic seizure of gunpowder it is said Bermudians came from America on the ships which were to carry off the loot landed here, dismounted ten guns on Wreck Hill and rolled them into the sea where, with the exception of one, they remain to this day.”

Meanwhile, the Burrows family remained at Wreck Hill. According to Hamilton, Volume Four of the Bermuda National Trust’s Bermuda’s Architectural Heritage Series, the Jeremiah Burrows mentioned above had land at the site of the present Wreck House from 1663 and that land stayed in the Burrows family for at least four generations. One Jeremiah had a grocery store at Wreck Hill from 1795 and according to E. A. McCallan’s Life on Old St. David’s Bermuda, customers from St. David’s would travel by boat to buy their goods.

During that year the Royal Navy bought land on the top of Wreck Hill with the idea of building a lighthouse there. The foundations were laid but it was never built. Gibbs Hill was considered the better location.

The next Jeremiah, in 1798, was in charge of the forts at Wreck Hill and nearby West Side.

He kept the shop and also had salt-raking interests in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

It’s likely he was involved in the smuggling activities that went on at Wreck Hill and at neighbouring Ely’s Harbour.

Ely’s Harbour was named after William Eli who settled here in 1621. Surrounded by a www.thebermudian.com

maze of reefs, Ely’s Harbour was a refuge for smugglers and illicit traders who would stop here first before declaring a fraction of their cargo in St. George’s. One form of contraband was rum, crucial for the local tavern keepers who, Michael Jarvis writes in In the Eye of All Trade, were mostly women whose clients were mariners and local craftsmen. Naturally, they were averse to a British presence so that on one occasion a tavern keeper, John Bethell’s wife, refused to provide quarters for soldiers sent to patrol the Somerset coast.

Tensions between locals and the garrison ran high. Once the soldiers arrived in 1778, they often took Bermudian livestock and firewood for themselves, and as reprisals for the Bermudians aiding the Americans, would seize or burn Bermudian ships, as happened to a Mr Hinson whose £600 ship was burned in 1778. According to Jarvis, the garrison had claimed an American ship carrying food that had been stranded on a reef in the West End. But the British did not bargain for the piloting skill of a group of slave fishermen. A chase ensued with the fishermen easily winning. Led

by Tom, they reached the ship first and offloaded it. The soldiers found the slaves’ empty boat, traced it and discovered that though Tom was “owned” by Robert Tucker, he had been working for Hinson. And that was why Hinson’s boat was destroyed although he gained nothing from Tom’s salvaging activities.

Crossways & the Somerset Bridge Club

Crossways, a picturesque cottage by Somerset Bridge, was for 70 years the meeting place of a literary and scientific association—thus proving life in Somerset during the eighteenth century wasn’t all about smuggling and adventures at sea. According to Jarvis, it was founded in 1765 near Bermuda’s first book and stationer’s shop owned by James Rivington of New York who opened it through a partner in Bermuda. A surviving printed pamphlet of rules bearing the signature of one Henry Tucker tells us, by 1784, the club was held “every Thursday night at the house of Mrs Ruth Young.” (Her husband, Captain Elias Young, had left her Crossways after he died.)

The rules tell us that the annual dues would be 20 shillings a year until 1790 and members would be accepted by ballot. In addition to

the annual fee, members also paid 1s 4d (one shilling and four pence) to the treasurer for books, pamphlets and magazines to pay for its extensive lending library. Zuill explains in his Bermuda Journey that one of the aims of the club was to acquire “all the books on economics in whatever language they have been written.” They even hired a librarian. One book known to have belonged to their library and now in the Bermuda Archives is a copy of Memoirs of Claude Joli, Canon of Notre Dame and the Dutchess of Nemours.

Each Thursday, a fish supper would be served between eight and nine o’clock at the cost of one shilling per person (people who failed to attend had to pay 8d) after which the rules say, “Card playing shall then cease and not be resumed for the evening.” Subjects of conversation ranged from literature to science, from religion to economics, but members were also interested in social problems of their time—unemployment, for example, and pensions. They wanted old-age pensions for people who had worked for 40 years.

There was a penalty system which no doubt helped to fill the coffers of the library. People who spoke out of order or more than once on the same subject were fined between “8d and 2s 8d.”

The pamphlet does not mention the names of the membership, but it’s known that the Tuckers attended, particularly two sons of the colonel—St. George who stayed in America, supporting the revolutionaries, and Nathaniel who went to Edinburgh to become a doctor and who for a time acquired fame for his poem “The Bermudian” recalling his childhood at The Grove. It begins: BERMUDA, parent of my early days, To thee belong my tributary lays; In thy blest clime, secur’d from instant harms, A tender mother press’d me in her arms, Lull’d me to rest with many a ditty rare, And look’d and smil’d upon her infant care.

She taught my lisping accents how to flow, And bade the virtues in my bosom glow.

The Edinburgh Magazine and Review by a Society of Gentlemen, in praising it, comments, “Here we find a poet, in whom the ardour of his youth, the love of nature, and the powerful prepossession for his natal soil, unite their conspiring blaze, and animate his strains with Summer 2014 | 45

The horse-drawn Somerset Express took five hours to get from Hamilton to Somerset every day.

uncommon force and tenderness.” No doubt the Somerset Bridge Club agreed. Today, readers are more struck by his commitment to rhyming couplets, so fashionable then and so tedious now.

Royal Naval Dockyard Transforms Somerset

Once Bermudian shipping declined, thanks to larger and then faster ships in America, Somerset’s harbours would not be appreciated again until after the growth of tourism in the twentieth century. As happened elsewhere in Bermuda, people in Somerset had to resort to farming although they were luckier in that their soil was more fertile than that in the central and eastern parishes. Jarvis points out: “The great value of the western parishes as planting land is evidenced by the fact the Bermuda Company charged Sandys, Southampton and Warwick planters a premium duty over the remaining six parishes on their tobacco…” During the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, farming became an important part of Somerset’s economy with exports of vegetables being sent to New York. A lovely quote from Marie St. Felix’s novel, Told by Two: A Romance of Bermuda (1901), puts it this way: “‘Somerset is not famous in any way, that I have heard of, but is said to be very picturesque,’ Polly comments.

‘I believe it is a retreat for invalids who find life at Hamilton too gay, Somerset being unmistak-

ably pastoral…’”

However, it was the development of Dockyard that made all the economic difference to Somerset. Terry Tucker explains in The Islands of Bermuda that after the principal owners of Ireland Island and other islands in the Great Sound sold their land to the Admiralty, they moved to Somerset and are there to this day: the Gilberts, Harveys, Fowles, Youngs, Outerbridges, Williams and Woods. As Dockyard grew, so did the demand for skilled labour and for people to fill civilian positions with the result that an influx of workers arrived from England and from the West Indies, with many moving to Somerset. One such worker from St. Kitts was former MP Walter Lister’s grandfather—James Alfred Lister, who travelled to Bermuda with his wife and family of five in 1902. Eighteen years later he bought land on Heathcote Hill near Sound View Road in Somerset for about £100.

By 1946, Zuill described Somerset as the most densely populated part of Bermuda after Pembroke Parish because of its proximity to Dockyard, which trained apprentices and gave employment to many Bermudians. Consequently, smaller houses and cottages were constructed for the new inhabitants, including a number of wooden houses built for and by West Indian labourers. Today, they have a rustic charm, particularly the ones on Greenfield Lane and East Shore Drive.

The increase in population also affected

Refusing to pay parochial taxes because they could not vote, suffragettes had their furniture seized and then sold by auction outside the courthouse. Women would buy the furniture and give it back to the owners.

46 | The Bermudian

transportation. According to Ronald (Ronnie) John Williams’s Bermudiana, in 1936 the Somerset Express, a horse-drawn bus, could take five hours to jolt its passengers all the way from Hamilton to Somerset. However, Enith Simons in Bermuda Recollections mentions a special service for Dockyard workers during the 1920s and ‘30s. “During this period a horse drawn bus owned by Mr. Lane left the centre of Somerset Village every working day at noon to go to the Dockyard.” He went to deliver hot lunches to the men who worked there. The wives prepared these meals and placed them in enamel or metal containers, each covered with a thick towel and clean white napkin and each with a nametag. The bus, she recalls, also took women to Dockyard to pick up laundry from the men. The women were paid more to wash, starch and iron the officers’ suits.

In 1931 came the train whose single track extended from St. George’s to Hamilton to Somerset. Carveth Wells’s Bermuda in Three Colours (1935) depicts Somerset as seen by train and immortalises one 80-year-old Minnie Hunt who lived at Teucer Place where she was born. She was a champion croquet player and she had “the right to halt all trains.”

Post Offices, Police Stations, Murder & Suffragettes

The story of Mangrove Bay Post Office is a little confusing since it has over time changed its location. Today it is housed in the Armoury Building on Mangrove Bay Road.

The first post office was opened in 1844 in a house also on Mangrove Bay Road originally built by John Fowle between 1826 and 1828.

Still there, in use as a private home, it’s now known as the Old Post Office. Its first assistant postmaster was Jauncey Outerbridge. But the building also acted as a courthouse and jail (and later as a tearoom). In 1878 Edward Skeeter, a black Bermudian man known as “the handiest man in the parish” was held there for a night to protect him from a group of about 20 angry women who, convinced he had murdered his wife, Anna, had attempted to lynch him. Anna had disappeared eight www.thebermudian.com

Left: Now the Somerset Police Station, the former post office and courthouse was the site of auctions of suffragette's furniture.

Above: Suffragists Gladys Misick Morrell (left) and Alice Scott (right)

days before from their cottage on Somerset Long Bay. It was generally known that Skeeter was often unfaithful, cruel and physically abusive to his wife so there was logic behind the women’s actions. He was later released but once again the women threatened violence.

Skeeter was duly charged with murder, but he was not held again at the Old Post Office for fear the women would once again attack him.

Instead he was held in the City of Hamilton jail. A few days later some fishermen and farmers were on a hill looking out to sea when they noticed that while the sea had white caps, a small portion of the channel off Long Bay was unnaturally calm. A couple of days later two men, including Anna’s brother, rowed out to investigate and found Anna’s skeleton which they brought back to the Skeeters’ cottage on the shoreline of Daniel’s Head Road next to Somerset Long Bay. Skeeter was charged at the Hamilton courthouse, found guilty and hanged. He left a chilling confession, referring to her as “my dear Anna…my dear wife” and to her “dear head” lying on the floor, while explaining how he had thrown a brass lamp at her, choked her to death so she could not complain about it and then thrown her body weighted by a stone overboard into the channel. His motive? He wanted to stop her scolding him for coming home late. Their cottage was burned by arsonists the night of Skeeter’s hanging. Remnants of its ruin may be hidden beneath the high tangle of night-blooming cereus now growing there.

By 1905 the post office had moved to what www.thebermudian.com

is now the Somerset Police Station, which with its colonnade of arches, wide steps and pilasters had been built in the imperial style in 1901. It, too, was a courthouse and for many years was where suffragists, led by Somerset inhabitant Gladys Misick Morrell, would demonstrate. Misick created the slogan: “The Three S’s: Somerset Solid for Suffrage”.

Refusing to pay parochial taxes because they could not vote, suffragettes had their furniture seized and then sold by auction outside the courthouse. Women would buy the furniture and give it back to the owners. Julie A. Farnsworth draws on that event for her charming short story “From Under a Hibiscus Bush” published in the anthology I Wish I Could Tell You and written from the point of view of a 13-year-old girl who, in hiding, watches the proceedings as her father acts as auctioneer.

Women finally received the vote in Bermuda in 1944.

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Summer 2014 | AM 47 5/12/14 10:00

Aberfeldy was once the home of the Onions family. Photo courtesy of Bermuda's Architectural Heritage Series: Sandys. Bottom: Well-known architect and Somerset resident Wilfred "Wil" Onions.

While the Bermuda suffragette movement was mostly white, one member was Alice Scott, a black nurse who had qualified at the Lincoln Hospital in New York. The similarities between these two strong women, Scott and Morrell, are striking during this era of virtual apartheid. Both loved tennis. Morrell was a member of the white Somerset Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club which met every Thursday afternoon for croquet, tennis, tea and talk at Melville House on Mangrove Bay—where the two courts still exist in somewhat dilapidated condition. Andrew Burnett-Herkes, who currently lives at Melville House and who was a member, says the club originally met at Daniel’s Head and then moved to Mangrove Bay. The courts were grass at first, then French clay and then concrete.

As was customary at the time, the club was for whites only. Excluded because of her race, Scott was undeterred. She founded the Shady Rest Tennis Club and was also a founding member of the Somers Isle Lawn Tennis Club. She often played in overseas tennis tournaments. Both Scott and Morrell were passionate about social issues. Morrell was a cofounder of the Bermuda Welfare Society which ironically prevented black nurses, including Scott, from working at the King Edward Hospital. Scott founded and ran the Shady Rest Nursing Home for 40 years, until her retirement in 1966. She also cofounded Sandys Secondary School, at one point mortgaging her house to support it financially, and later unsuccessfully ran for parliament. Who nominated her? Gladys Morrell.

The Somerset Cricket Club

Appropriately on Cricket Lane, the Somerset

48 | The Bermudian

Cricket Club also has an imperial architectural style with its arched and columned verandah overlooking the field. It was founded 44 years after the first official Cup Match game was played between Somerset and St. George’s Odd Fellows, and built by James Horton, a member of a prominent Somerset family. He had a carpentry shop on Cambridge Road and spent time mentoring young men in the trade. His daughter, Josephine Smith, now director of quality assurance for RenaissanceRe, says her love of maths came from him. She remembers him as a quiet man who was a champion billiards player and a jockey at the Shelley Bay Race Track. One of his nephews is Randy Horton, well-known Somerset football player, who of course played many a football game at the club. According to Dorcas Roberts, director of preservation for the Bermuda National Trust, the Lopes’s garden next door was often the landing place for the ball when a batsman hit a six.

Felicity Hall & Aberfeldy

The picturesque Felicity Hall on Long Bay Lane was first owned by an early Somerset family—William and Sarah Seymour—in the latter part of the eighteenth century. In 1798, it was sold to Captain William Morris who married Rachel Dalzell in 1813. (The house could have been a wedding present from

her father, John Dalzell, a naval doctor who was shipwrecked in Bermuda on his way to Nevis in 1783. He stayed on, married Mary Seymour Poulton and assembled properties on the land which now constitutes the Heydon Trust.) Eventually, Felicity Hall was rented to a number of interesting tenants including Thalia Misick (Morrell’s mother) and writer Harvey Allen who wrote Anthony Adverse there. Wells, a descendent of Dalzell, lived at the house and wrote his Bermuda in Three Colours, an overly jocular book peppered with exclamation points. Later, long-term editor of The Bermudian, Ronnie Williams, also rented the house where he entertained famous writers such as Ernest Hemingway, James Thurber and Sinclair Lewis. His daughter, Jenny Terceira, remembers humorist James Thurber: “He was the only man Daddy would let sit in his chair.

James Thurber was very, very tall and his legs were very bony.” A keen tennis player, Williams was for a time president of the Somerset Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club.

Dating back to the eighteenth century, Aberfeldy, originally Myrtle Grove, was once the home of the Onions family. According to Chris Gibbons at bermudabiographies.bm, “Bermuda’s best-known and most influential architect of the 20th century, Wilfred Richmond ‘Wil’ Onions, was instrumental in developing the revivalist Bermudian vernacular style that came to define the island’s architecture and inspire Bermudian architects long after his death.” Onions designed City Hall, which sadly he never saw completed as he took his own life in 1959, apparently over a disagreement with a client whose house he was designing on Wreck Hill. The client wanted to make changes to the plans that were at odds with the traditional Bermudian style of architecture Onions loved.

Bermudians still remember a theatrical group called That Somerset Lot, a precursor to Not the Um Um Show, who would perform skits and revues for the public at Aberfeldy.

Onions was a member, as well as a member of the Harem Scarem revue that ran from 1923 to 1948 with Gilbert and Arthur Cooper being key players. www.thebermudian.com

Som a

b

Quaint, charming and historically significant, the "dean of old houses" gets some love and attention thanks to the Bermuda National Trust.

By Elizabeth Jones

F

erse

out

t

Springfield

amous for its distinctive arch leading to the buttery and to an inner courtyard around which the property is framed, Springfield on Somerset Road has to be one of the most photographed properties in the whole of Bermuda, let alone Sandys Parish. So it’s not surprising it has been featured several times in The Bermudian magazine over the last 80 years. In the December 1932 issue, Philip Knox, writing about early “colonial” architecture said that “there is in those high peaked butteries, broad chimneys and unpredictable roof lines something whimsical and elfin, a sort of fairy-tale quality.” He was convinced that the Springfield buttery could “harbour one of the wee folk.”

www.thebermudian.com

l

Illustration by Adolph Treidler from Residence in Bermuda, 1936

It's Al

“The impossible pitch of that smooth stone roof,” he wrote, “would be exactly to taste, though the occupant would probably be just as puzzled as I was to know whence the power came that made the stone stay on.” He went on to describe “the low eaves, low doors, nooks, crannies and cavernous fireplaces,” as “all seemingly expressing a certain drollness of taste.”

In the July 1957 issue of The Bermudian, Betty Smith also wrote about Springfield but this time in connection with the opening of the Somerset branch of the Bermuda Library in the front section of the main house. “In recent times,” she wrote, “Springfield, the dean of old houses had ‘let herself go.’ She had become untidy—almost slatternly.

Summer 2014 | 49

The slave house, for example, accommodating at one point in the early nineteenth century 19 slaves, including a stonemason, a ship’s carpenter, two labourers, seven house servants and three children, allows us to imagine what it must have been like for so many people to have lived in such tiny rooms.

Like Eliza Doolittle in George Bernard Shaw’s play Pygmalion, you could tell that basically Springfield was beautiful but woefully unkempt.”

At the time, the property was leased by the Bermuda Monuments Trust (precursor to the Bermuda National Trust) from the Gilbert family who had owned it ever since the late 1600s. The Trust hired Bermudian architect Wil Onions, renowned for his passion for traditional Bermudian architecture, to renovate it. According to Smith, in response to initial fears that Springfield “was doomed to be modernised and ruined in the process,” Onions declared, “The building looks more like the original building now than before we started work on it.” The grounds, suffering from the “tattered garments of unpruned trees,” were “tamed” by the Sandys Arbour Society.

American humorist James Thurber, frequent guest of The Bermudian’s editor Ronnie Williams at Felicity Hall in Somerset, apparently attended the opening of the library. He kindly donated an advance copy of his latest book, The Wonderful O, a short book of fairy tales for children. Books originally from the Gilbert family’s personal library were, according to Smith, also available on the shelves—“the old Gilbert family Bible,” a “fat volume called ‘The Practical Home Physician,’” and a “fashion publication called ‘The Young Woman,’ published in 1894, a delightful thing with illustrations of shy young misses.”

Springfield remained the home of the Somerset Library for many years but it also hosted the annual Sandys Flower Show, which was especially popular for its floral hat contest. In 1969 The Bermudian printed photos of several contestants, including “Little Canda Smith of Somerset wearing [a] hat made of bay grape leaves and calla lilies” and Miss Hylar Bean of Somerset who wore a “headpiece of daisies, 50 | The Bermudian

calendulas and bird of paradise.”

Today, Springfield still retains its historic significance as well as the quaintness Knox enjoyed all those years ago—the Bermuda stone and the variety of shapes that make up the exterior: the little arches, the huge chimney, the adjacent angles of some of the walls. Its buildings reflect the island’s way of life throughout the centuries. The slave house, for example, accommodating at one point in the early nineteenth century 19 slaves, including a stonemason, a ship’s carpenter, two labourers, seven house servants and three children, allows us to imagine what it must have been like for so many people to have lived in such tiny rooms.

At one point the Gilberts kept in the grounds one horse, one ram, two ewes, four lambs, one sow and three pigs.

But these days, Springfield is once again desperately in need of some loving attention since it has suffered from poor maintenance and fallen into disrepair. And once again, Bermuda has reason to be grateful for the Bermuda National Trust which has come to the rescue. Says Dorcas Roberts, director of preservation, “Our buildings team is currently working hard to preserve the buildings by providing them the urgent care and attention they need—the roofs and exterior walls have been repaired and painted and the exterior millwork is now being refinished. “ The verandah of the main building, added in the nineteenth century

by Susannah Gilbert is, says Roberts, “in a very poor state of repair and is currently unsafe. We have submitted a planning application to make urgent structural repairs to make it secure and halt its deterioration but we also want to remove unsympathetic and deteriorating modern additions and replace missing structural and decorative features.” In addition, the Trust will fix the partially collapsed roof of the two-storey cottage on the property. The Trust is also applying for permission to alter the modern exterior steps on the building to uncover part of the original stone steps and install safety banisters.

The grounds, gracing a terraced garden leading down to a grove of palms and palmetto, need care and attention as well. Any changes will be carried out with the guidance of the Trust’s Gardens and Nature Reserve Committee. It is to be hoped the fruit-bearing olive and mulberry trees on the property will live longer yet, not to mention the cedar that resembles the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Just as it was in 1957, the aim is to bring Springfield back to active life. For that reason, the Trust has applied for permission to change the use of the main house from institutional to commercial. “We would like to retain a public component to Springfield, as one of Somerset’s most important cultural and architectural treasures,” says Roberts. “Whilst no plans have been secured for this building as yet, it is the Trust’s intention to look for a partner/tenant that can operate a shop, tearoom and/or a visitor experience that will provide this building with a sustainable future that can be enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.” Anyone interested in leasing the main house for a small business is welcome to contact the Trust for further information.

The Trust will also rent out three apartments—one 2-bedroom and two 1-bedroom apartments—for private use. The total cost of repairs is budgeted at $400,000. Currently, the National Trust needs $210,000 to reach its goal. Anyone wishing to rent, or to donate, is invited to call Roberts at 236-6483, ext. 216. And volunteers are always welcome.

“We need people to help—to repair the porch and bring the property up to an acceptable standard.” www.thebermudian.com

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Summer 2014 | 51

Cover dog Moneypenny

52 | The Bermudian

www.thebermudian.com

Dog Days Bermudaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best places for swimming, paddling, climbing and generally having a ball with your bestie.

Plus our readers' photos and our guide to care and pampering for your pooch!

Written by Amy Penniston

www.thebermudian.com

Summer 2014 | 53

Outdoor Fun BEACHES Sandy paws, wind-blown hair and wet, salty noses—dogs love a day on a sloping shoreline.

With dozens of public beaches to choose from, we have selected a few unique spots, with qualities that both you and your pet are bound to enjoy.

For privacy and tranquility, it doesn’t get much better than Hog Bay Beach in Sandys. Savour a slow saunter along a wooded trail that stretches from the park entrance toward the water’s edge.

Be sure to consult the tide chart as this sandy cove disappears completely at high tide.

At the very eastern tip of the island in St. David’s is a picturesque spot that’s great for doggie socialising. Clearwater Beach is a popular location for pets, kids and the rest of the family, and the shaded picnic area is a great perch 54 | The Bermudian

from which you can supervise all of the action.

The unusually shallow waters at Shelly Bay in Hamilton Parish are a dream-come-true for dogs that love to wade and chase fish.

The shaded park area and nearby sports field are also great for gallivanting.

Bermuda’s Wildlife Venturing out for a walk?

Mind your dog steers clear of the following: All parts of the common sago palm are poisonous to animals, especially the orange seeds.

The giant toad, Bermuda’s only

PARKS & GARDENS

species of toad, is also toxic.

Although dogs are not allowed on public beaches between April 1st and October 31st, the island offers plenty of prime play spots to keep everyone occupied.

For a memorable day of pawpedalling, escape to Ferry Reach Park in St. George’s. This spacious natural area is dotted with historical landmarks, including old forts and burial monuments, waiting to be explored. Best of all is the meandering Railway Trail

diately if your dog starts frothing

Seek veterinary attention immeat the mouth after spending time outdoors.

Also beware the low-lying

ashore and becomes partially

cacti that cover rocky cliffs and

hidden under the sand. The

beach dunes across the island.

semi-transparent gas-filled

Although flowering varieties are

bladder, which enables it to

easily spotted, smaller plants

float when in the water, may be

often go overlooked and are

mistaken for a plastic bag. Avoid

painful to tender paws.

all contact with the tentacles;

The Portuguese man-of-

they can grow up to 165-feet

war is a jellyfish-like marine

long and cause severe welting

invertebrate that often washes

and blistering. www.thebermudian.com

Competitive Events The dog-eat-dog world of competitive canine training revolves around the prestigious All Breed International Championship Dog Shows

Clockwise from top left: Kalli and Nhuri Bashir; Brooklyn on the beach; Pepper racing at Southlands; Solace in agility training; “Please can we have a treat?”; Lantana; Rory loves to swim; Stanley; and Finn on the sand.

held every October. Organised by the Bermuda Kennel Club, this well-attended event attracts the top bright-eyed beauties. Admission to the show is free.

Prefer performance to pedigree? A series of hair-raising obedience, agility and rally trials are also held throughout

NUMBERS TO REMEMBER

the year.

Think your star pup has

Endsmeet Animal Hospital

what it takes to be the next

168 Middle Road, Devonshire

best in show? The Dog Train-

Tel: 236-3292

ing Club of Bermuda offers a

694-0703 (emergency)

variety of classes in obedience

Ettrick Animal Hospital

and agility to first-timers. You

79 Middle Road, Warwick

are also invited to spectate or

Tel: 236-0007

chat with instructors to learn

699-0502 (emergency)

more about what it takes to be top dog. You can also register

SPCA Animal Shelter

for group lessons in ringcraft

32 Valley Road, Paget

taught by the Bermuda Kennel

Tel: 236-7333

Club Show Committee.

737-1108 (emergency)

that is very popular with earlymorning doggie runners.

Admiralty House provides all the makings for an adventurous afternoon including grassy fields, secluded coves, rocky cliffs and even a dock for jumping, swimming and line fishing. There’s also a public tennis court if your furry companion enjoys a good game of “monkey in the middle.” This www.thebermudian.com

little slice of doggie heaven is situated in Pembroke parish.

The Botanical Gardens is yet another favourite for outdoor expeditions. Located in Paget just a mile away from Hamilton, this spot offers plenty of wideopen spaces that have “Frisbeethrowing territory” written all over them. Plus, it’s popular with the locals, so your companion is

bound to make a new friend or two.

Last but not least is Astwood Park in Warwick, one of the most beautiful places for a sunset stroll.

Acres of rolling hills are perfect for frolicking, fetching and excavating; climbers and daredevils will also enjoy investigating the unusual rock formations along the coastline.

Summer 2014 | 55

Pamper Your Pooch GROOMING AT YOUR DOORSTEP The mobile grooming craze is sweeping the island as never before. Over the last several years, pet owners have seen an explosion in the number of new and exciting boutiques that have made it easier than ever to keep your dog trimmed and cool during hot summer months. A shiny, streamlined and sweet-smelling coat is just a phone call away.

Depending on the company, you’ll be able to choose from a long list of pampering, primping and pruning services. For the royal treatment we love the 56 | The Bermudian

warm bath, fresh breath and teeth cleaning options providing by Dog Gone Good (735-2581).

Each post-treatment doggie is rewarded with a complimentary spritz of cologne and a collar bow.

Adorable!

Also popular among pooches is Bermuda K9 Bath Time (3330518). Beautify from head to tail with one of their deluxe grooming packages—warm bath and blow dry included. A basic clipping service is also available to keep those nails in check.

SALONS & STUDIOS There’s nothing more relaxing than having your pet groomed in the comfort of his or her own home. However, if you and your doggie are up for a drive, there are plenty of resident salons that offer full spa experiences in a welcoming, stress-free environment.

The ultimate grooming package at Love Your Poochie (7778124) is well worth the trip; it includes not only a free consultation but a signature blueberry

facial too!

We can also recommend Pampered Pets (705-4466 and 705-3366) for their convenient locations in Wellbottom and the Pic-A-Pet store in Hamilton.

Their patient and experienced staff will have your pert princess or manly stud strutting in style in no time.

TOYS & ACCESSORIES This summer season, say goodbye to ugly doggie carriers www.thebermudian.com

Clockwise from top left: Soja in the freesias; Annie; Raven the Siberian Husky; Rosie at Spittal Pond; Belle in her favourite pool; Isla going for a swim; and Louis with his Frisbee.

More Doggie Luv Animal & Garden House 3 Cemetery Road, Pembroke, 292-3705 Puppies & Supplies Spicelands, 52 Middle Road, 238-1293 Gorham’s Ltd. 62 St. John’s Road, Pembroke, 2951550

and hello to the latest trend in designer accessories. The hot-selling Dogs of Glamour satchels at Paws & Claws (234-4474) take outings to a whole new level. These blingstudded, faux leather totes are totally fashionable; plus they have lots of pockets to stuff full of treats and hair bows!

Hot temperatures also mean that air conditioners will be working overtime.

Bundle up your pet with a knitted onesie or fleece-lined www.thebermudian.com

plaid vest; doggie outfits are also a must-have for windy boating excursions and trips to the beach. Swing by Pic-APet (292-4554) in Hamilton to browse their wide selection of cute clothing and seasonal costumes for smaller dogs.

For the ultimate in overthe-top, check out the cute collection of Color Paw nail polishes sold by Noah’s Ark Feed & Supply (236-1533).

This pet-lover’s superstore also stocks the clippers and files

you’ll need to give your lucky dog a full “pawdicure”.

We also recommend Kerry’s Place (234-7010), a luxury pet boutique and spa in Sandys. Their fabulous fashion products include adorable paw-wear accessories, neckties, tutus and, yes, even sparkly angel wings.

What will they think of next?

Summer 2014 | 57

Rules, Guidelines & Leash Safety As outlined in the Dogs Act of 2008, the Department of Environmental Protection imposes strict regulations on the registration of all canines as well as the importation and rearing of certain breeds. Owners must obtain an annual license and apply for a special permit to keep more than two dogs. The Rizzy the Staffordshire bull terrier frolicking in a patch of Bermudianas.

Below: Lily and Ginger holding paws in the Botanical Gardens.

act also outlines the standard of care that is to be upheld in order to ensure that our small island is safe for both two- and fourlegged inhabitants.

In addition, the Bermuda government limits canine access to crowded areas during certain months of the year; dogs are not allowed on public beaches between April 1st and October 31st. Dogs must also be kept leashed at all times.

Doggie Services

For more information on policies and permits call Veterinary Services and Animal Control at 236-4201. Visit their website at www.animals.gov.bm to download applications and read

WALKING & DAYCARE After working all day, it’s tough to remember to hit the road, path or park for an hour of quality leash time. That’s why pet owners from east to west are enlisting the aid of mobile daycare businesses to help their critters stay active and social.

These professional dog walkers organise, transport and oversee playgroups for up to 12 dogs at a time. New additions are always prescreened to ensure that they will get along with the rest of the pack.

Since opening in the summer of 2013, Dog Gone Good (7352581) has earned a reputation for safe and energetic play sessions.

Animals are taken to secure areas on private property to give them 58 | The Bermudian

the opportunity to romp off-leash.

Rest assured that your best bud will come home all tuckered out!

Active doggies also dig DogPlay (300-4508) and Pet Palooza (334-9637). Both specialise in group walking and supervised daycare services to help stave off boredom during long work days.

PET-SITTING Though it hurts to say goodbye, we can’t always bring our faithful sidekicks with us when we travel.

Thankfully there are many capable pet-sitters who offer dependable daily feeding, in-house boarding and unbeatable peace of mind.

Dog owners love Bermuda Pet Sitters (400- 7387), a passionate, paw-centric business that provides

half-day, full-day and extended daycare services in a no-cage environment. They can also arrange in-house boarding, play-pack outings and transportation to the vet.

Passion Paw Paws (747-7297) provides loving care, hugs and even live video streaming from your home. Their unique webcam service enables you to watch your pet from your computer while you’re away. How neat is that?

If you’re in the process of relocating to the island, @Home Critter Care (www.athomecrittercarebermuda.com) can collect your pet from the airport and delivery him or her right to your house. They also provide petsitters to feed, bathe and walk your furry friend.

official canine legislation.

Coco

www.thebermudian.com

Cleopatra

Makin’ Tracks BERMUDA BOUND Bermuda welcomes well-behaved pooches—and trust us—your pooch will love Bermuda! Unfortunately, travelling with your trusty companion is more than just a matter of buying him or her an airline ticket.

All dogs must visit a veterinarian within 10 days of intended arrival in order to verify their health and vaccinations. In addition to being physically fit, dogs must be at least 10 months old and be implanted with a microchip. Once a vet has signed off, you will be eligible to obtain an official import permit to accompany your pet during the trip. For more information and to download a permit application, visit www.animals.gov.bm. Also be sure to check with the airlines for size limitations and associated pet fees.

GETTING AROUND As a general rule of thumb, whether or not your dog will be allowed to ride along with you in a taxi is at the discretion of the driver.

Although most cabs are pet friendly, it’s safest to call first and request that a note be added to your reservation. Remember: drivers always prefer clean and dry over sandy and wet!

The Bermuda ferry service is another convenient way to travel with your dog.

Four-legged companions must be leashed and under control at all times. Additionally, they are not allowed in the cabin area.

Remy

Hello Bermuda NOW OPEN – GIBBONS COMPANY, 21 REID STREET, HAMILTON www.gibbons.bm facebook.com/gap www.thebermudian.com

Summer 2014 | 59

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Bestof Bermuda Awards 2014

Shopping & Services • Clothing & Accessories • People & Places • Food, Drink & Entertainment • Shopping & Services

Shopping & Services • Clothing & Accessories • People & Places • Food, Drink & Entertainment • Shopping & Services

• Food, Drink & Entertainment • Shopping & Services • Clothing & Accessories • People & Places • Food, Drink & Entertainment •Clothing & Accessories •

• Food, Drink & Entertainment • Shopping & Services • Clothing & Accessories • People & Places • Food, Drink & Entertainment •Clothing & Accessories •

We are proud to present

the 24th Annual Best of Bermuda Awards, sponsored by BF&M. As always, we’re celebrating the best people, places and businesses across the island which either made big moves forward during the last year or maintained high levels of quality and service.

As with each year, our twenty astute judges scoured the community to find the most deserving amongst us. They spent weeks independently conducting their research and polling locals and residents alike to come up

www.thebermudian.com

with nominations before coming together and hashing it out to decide on winners for each category.

We know as you comb through this year’s winners, you’ll be pleased to see your personal picks that have made the cut once

sponsored by

again, some of which have been on the list since the very beginning of the Best of Bermuda Awards in 1990. In addition to the age-old favourites are the newcomers whom we happily welcome as winners for the first time; we hope they understand the importance of receiving a Best of Bermuda Award and hope to see them on our future lists as well.

As with each year, we couldn’t put together the ultimate list of everything that is best about Bermuda

without our sponsor BF&M, which has shown its generous support for the Best of Bermuda Awards since 2009.

Special thanks to our panel of judges who worked tirelessly and diligently to make sure each winner is the most deserving.

We appreciate all the hard work and dedication they delivered to this year’s awards and hope they feel just as proud as we do in congratulating this year’s Best of Bermuda Award winners.

Summer 2014 | 61

by Gabrielle Boyer • illustrations by dana cooper

Food, Drink & Entertainment

Cup of Java

they don’t need to be told how

Breakfast

can enjoy any style of eggs,

pDangelini’s Café and Bakery

cool they are because it was never

pBouchee Bistro Français

waffles, pancakes and tradi-

An amalgamation of energy and

their intention to be so, but every-

For most, eating breakfast at all

tional Bermudian codfish and

flavour, Dangelini’s Café and

thing about Rock Island Coffee

is an accomplishment in itself.

potatoes from 7:30 a.m. until

Bakery houses much more than

is cool. From the coffee roasted

Most mornings find us consum-

2:30 p.m. daily. We call that a

coffee. Its family-friendly at-

on-site to the art on the walls to

ing nothing more elaborate

well-timed meal.

mosphere welcomes everyone,

the wide array of customers who

than a tasteless granola bar or

• 75 Pitt’s Bay Road, Hamilton, 295-5759

young or old, local or tourist,

never seem to leave, Rock Island

half a grapefruit, but once in a

regular or newcomer, with open

sets the cool-factor exceptionally

while we decide to do breakfast:

arms and a fresh brew.

high. In accepting their award for

we stop, sit down and ac-

• 8 Front Street, Hamilton, 295-5272

Coolest Coffee House, though,

tively enjoy every mouthful of a

Restaurant and Pub

they won’t brag or boast but just

butter-soaked meal. When that

Everything about the Hog Penny

Coolest Coffee House

give us quiet acknowledgment—

happens, it happens at Bouchee

Restaurant and Pub is hearty. Its

pRock Island Coffee

because anything more would

Bistro Français where it doesn’t

patrons are bursting at the seams

simply be uncool.

even have to be breakfast time

with energy, its food is rich in

• 48 Reid Street, Hamilton, 296-5241

to have breakfast; in fact diners

flavour and indulgence,

Really cool people don’t try hard to be cool; they just are. Likewise,

Favourite Pub p Hog Penny

Fresh Breads & Pastries pSweet Saak Bakery From its beginnings as a stall at the weekly Farmer’s Market back in 2006, Sweet Saak Bakery has acquired something of a cult following of hungry Bermudians in constant search of their next Sweet Saak fix. Owner and operator, Kamilah Cannonier opened the doors to Sweet Saak’s flagship store in 2012 on York Street, St. George’s. Since then, her business has grown exponentially. From traditional banana bread and cheese scones to her famous cinnamon buns, the whole island seems to be getting Saak-ed. [Kamilah Cannonier abstained from voting.] • 16 York Street, St. George’s, 297-0663

62 | The Bermudian

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xcellence E f o d Awar

its hat to days gone by when the two-martini lunch was the standard and lavishness was expected. Barracuda Grill is the destination for Bermuda’s most elite locals, celebrity visitors and most expensive business deals.

• 5 Burnaby Hill, Hamilton, 292-1609

Great Sandwich pTribe Road Kitchen There’s a big difference between a sandwich and a great sandwich. A sandwich is something you wolf down in a split second;

pDorothy’s Coffee Shop

its only purpose is to power you

Dorothy’s Coffee Shop does

through the afternoon. A great

one thing and one thing only:

sandwich is carefully constructed

great burgers. Without any ad-

Mad Hatters

using the finest ingredients and

ditions or fancy accouterments

unlike its overrated counterpart,

(we’re not kidding, there’s

Mark Turner and Ben Jewett always envisioned a place

it’s savoured and appreciated

not a French fry in sight), they

where diners could come together to celebrate food and the

down to its last crumb. A great

focus solely on flipping the best

joy of eating. What they created was Mad Hatters, a small

sandwich is not sustenance, it’s

burgers in town, their success

restaurant with big personality on the outskirts of Hamilton.

comfort—even decadence—and

measured by their 15 Best of

After only a few years in business, the eatery has acquired

made at Tribe Road Kitchen.

Bermuda Awards—currently

one of the most loyal customer bases of any restaurant in

• 87 Reid Street, Hamilton, 734-1637

decorating their walls—and

Bermuda. “Their food is absolutely amazing!” said one of our

photo: scott tucker

Hamburger

the line of customers winding

judges, who also noted that the ever-changing specials menu

Lunch Truck

and snaking its way out of the

is so enticing they’ve never ordered anything off the regular

pKeith’s Kitchen

door of their little shop and into

The battle of the lunch trucks is

Chancery Lane.

menu. Mad Hatters seems to have perfected the winning recipe—providing exceptional food, an amusing atmosphere and a staff that really interact with their customers—making every dining experience one to be remembered.

• 22 Richmond Road, Pembroke, 297-6231

real. Each has its own specialty, its loyal customers and its own designated parking spot. But one

• 3 Chancery Lane, Hamilton, 292-1430

Gluten-free Menu

has something the others do not:

pNonna’s Kitchen

a breakfast menu. Granted not

It often seems like a mission to

exactly elaborate, the breakfast

the moon trying to find a decent

menu at Keith’s Kitchen consists

gluten-free meal in Bermuda.

Network. When you’re in need of

of good, hearty sandwiches

But one place in particular

a good meal, a cold pint and an

stuffed with bacon, eggs and all

(without a wheat crumb in sight)

animated sing-a-long, head to

the best breakfast favourites,

is satisfying Bermuda’s celiacs.

the Hog Penny where they may

dished out to the hungry masses

Nonna’s Kitchen serves up glu-

not know your name, but they are

that choose to start each day with

ten-free soups, salads and corn

always glad you came.

Keith and his mobile kitchen.

bread daily, and the best part is

• 5 Burnaby Hill, Hamilton, 292-2534

• BAA Car Park, Hamilton, 295-1310

that even the non-celiacs don’t

Power Lunch

Take-Out Deli

surefire win for everyone.

and its unique history makes it

pBarracuda Grill

pHickory Stick

• 4 Bermudiana Road, Hamilton, 295-7687

everything a great pub should be.

Power lunching is a produc-

Enter if you dare the madness that

As Hamilton’s oldest licenced

tion. Scores of people prepare

is Hickory Stick. As you take your

establishment, the Hog Penny

the set, lay out the props and

place in line, essential questions

pThe Spot

has not changed with the times,

dim the lights. The main stars,

are hurled at you: “Mannayse?”

Perhaps one of the only places

but rather held fast to what it is

dressed in their most impressive

“Black peppa?” “Lattuce and

where a person of any age can or-

that makes it unique, thereby

costumes take their places and

tamata?” If you can survive the

der a grilled cheese sandwich and

gaining international acclaim. The

the show begins. At Barracuda

firing squad, you’ll emerge with a

not garner a host of strange looks

Hog Penny has been cited as the

Grill, the production of power

sandwich piled high and a satis-

is at The Spot, a local institution

inspiration for the Cheers pub

lunching is taken very seriously,

faction like no other.

which has been serving up diner-

in Boston and was named the

with special importance placed

style meals for over 70 years.

best pub in Bermuda by the Food

on the atmosphere which tips

• Clarendon Building, 2 Church Street, Hamilton, 292-1781

know the difference, making it a

www.thebermudian.com

Diner

• 6 Burnaby Hill, Hamilton, 292-6293

Summer 2014 | 63

Food, Drink & Entertainment

pBeluga Bar

Ethnic Cuisine

Salad Bar

the world, served up in small

pHouse of India

pNonna’s Kitchen

portions designed for sharing—

Each year we wonder why we

For those in need of their greens

making swiping food off your

even bother announcing that the

on the go, Nonna’s Kitchen

partner’s plate not only accept-

House of India is, yet again, the

takes the cake…rather, salad

able, but actually encouraged.

best place in Bermuda for ethnic

bar. With two varieties of lettuce

• Elbow Beach Hotel, 60 South Shore Road, Paget, 236-3535

cuisine. They know it; we know

to choose from, and every top-

it; you know it. If a Bermudian

ping imaginable, it’s no wonder

says, “I’m getting Indian tonight,”

that Nonna’s Kitchen is the

there’s never a question of

talk of the town among healthy

where they’re going to get it.

lunch-goers.

• 57 North Street, Hamilton, 205-6450

• 4 Bermudiana Road, Hamilton, 295-7687

Fine Dining pThe Point at Rosewood

Bermudians have acquired a

Tucker’s Point

love for sushi that cannot be

The word “fine” just doesn’t do

stifled. Restaurants islandwide have gotten into the action, each serving up its version of

it when describing the dining experience at The Point at Rosewood Tucker’s Point. From

Pizza

the time you are seated you are

pLa Trattoria

treated to a level of service that

You know what they say: If it

is unmatched anywhere else on

ain’t broke, don’t fix it! That

the island. Couple that with an

seems to be the recipe for La

• 18 Church Street (Washington Mall),

incredible menu and breathtak-

Trattoria’s pizzas, which

Hamilton, 542-2859

ing views and it’s not hard to

have garnered so many Best

see why dining at The Point is

of Bermuda Awards over the

worth every penny.

last 24 years we struggle to

• 60 Tucker’s Point Drive, Hamilton Parish, 298-4000

count. Getting stuck into their

the Japanese dish. But it seems none is any match for Beluga Bar, the winner in this category for the second consecutive year.

Salad pCafé Ten From the basic to the most

oven-baked pizza, handmade

elaborate, the salads at Café Ten,

and dripping in several layers

although green, are not for the

Lunch on the Go

grazers. The regular clientele are

pCafé 4

among Bermuda’s healthiest who

There isn’t an eatery speedier

young at heart.

stop by for a fill-up after a visit

than Café 4, where customers

to one of the surrounding health

can place their orders online,

• 22 Washington Lane, Hamilton, 295-1871

clubs. Whichever came first, the

swing by and collect them in

salads or the bodies, we’re not

turn, skipping lines and avoiding

sure but we do know that we’ll

Ambiance

Hotel Restaurant

the waiting game. Customers

have what they’re having.

pBlu Bar and Grill

pWaterlot Inn

can choose from sushi, sand-

• 10 Dundonald Street, Hamilton, 295-0857

wiches, salads, desserts and

Feast your eyes on the sweep-

“Come in and make yourself

ing views of Hamilton Harbour

comfortable” was the welcome

and the Great Sound for too

received by famous visitors, such

long and you might forget to

as Eleanor Roosevelt, Mark Twain

order. Sure, the food at Blu

and James Thurber, when they

Bar and Grill is impeccable, but

arrived to dine at the Waterlot Inn

what really draws the crowds

years ago. Today you don’t have to

to the property is the unparal-

be a celebrity to be received at the

leled panoramic view from the

centuries-old establishment; all

floor to ceiling windows. Book

that is required is a hearty appe-

at the right time and catch the

tite—and perhaps a dinner jacket,

setting sun for an atmosphere

too. What makes the Waterlot Inn

so euphoric you might as well

so unique is the way it success-

call it heaven.

fully marries the past and the

• 25 Belmont Hills Drive, Warwick, 232-2323

present, continuing to serve up

snacks all via www.cafe4.bm/ Small Plates

lunchexpress/index.html. Before

pSea Breeze

they’ve even left the office, their

Whether you’re a first-time

order is being boxed—their food

diner at Sea Breeze or a weekly

is on the go before they are.

customer, you’ll never run

• 18 Queen Street, Windsor Place (Washington Mall), Hamilton, 295-8444

out of new dishes to try. The extensive menu is chock-full of

of glorious cheeses, is a favourite among the young and the

time-honoured culinary favourites with a playful contemporary twist— thereby ensuring its customers return year after year.

• 101 South Shore Road, Southampton, 238-8000

64 | The Bermudian

www.thebermudian.com

photo: charles anderson

Sushi

various food items from around

The Waterlot Inn When succulent selections are on your culinary itinerary, the historic Waterlot Inn is not to be missed. This AAA Four Diamond and Wine Spectator Award winning restaurant serves the finest steaks and chops on a inspired menu featuring signature specialties and exciting, bold flavours.

Open daily: 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM

The Dock at The Waterlot Chic waterside lounge with stunning sunsets, grilled fare, & live entertainment in the comfort of our outdoor living room.

Open Wednesday - Saturday: 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM | Open Sundays: 2:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Call 238-8000 for reservations & more information | www.fairmont.com/southampton

photo: scott tucker

Food, Drink & Entertainment

Bartender

Sunday Brunch

walled Wine Room at Ascots

pThe Reefs

provides the same exceptional

No one brunches like Bermudi-

service found in the dining room

ans. What used to be an outing

but with added privacy. Sur-

reserved for special occasions

rounded by wine from around the

has now become a weekly

world, you and up to 13 guests

feeding frenzy at which even the

can dine in seclusion, undis-

hungriest will triumph. So where

turbed by other patrons—a luxury

do the serious brunchers go?

sometimes deemed a necessity.

To The Reefs, of course, where

• 24 Rosemont Avenue, Hamilton, 295-9644

every kind of dish under the sun is just waiting to be devoured!

• 56 South Shore Road, Southampton, 238-0222

Out-of-Town Eatery pSpeciality Inn Speciality Inn will forever remain a local favourite. The food is

pRyan Gibbons

Cake Maker

You’d be hard pressed to find a bar-

as it’s always been, delicious,

pCake Boutique Celebration

tender who is more knowledgeable

inexpensive and served with a

Romantic Restaurant

Certainly not your grandmoth-

smile, making the short trip to

pAscots

er’s fruitcake, Kayo Lambert’s

get there well worth the drive.

masterful cakes are simply

• 4 South Road, Smith’s, 236-3133

than Ryan Gibbons of the Barracuda Grill. With over ten years’ experience behind the bar, Gibbons knows that being the best bartender is about more than making great cocktails; it’s a job that includes knowing your customers and how to please them.

• 5 Burnaby Hill, Hamilton, 292-1609

Kid-Friendly Restaurant pLa Trattoria La Trattoria has always wel-

works of art. Having graduated

Ascots has been the venue for much wining and dining over the last twenty years, with

from the New England Culinary

Porch & Patio Dining

Institute, Lambert has built an

pWahoo’s Bistro and Patio

enviable reputation for her busi-

Where better to enjoy fresh

ness, Cake Boutique Celebra-

love. Surrounded by perfectly

Bermuda fish than alfresco at

tion. These days, Lambert’s

landscaped gardens and trees

Wahoo’s Bistro and Patio in the

masterpieces are hotly sought

decorated in twinkling lights,

heart of St. George’s. Of course,

after by local brides—and any-

falling in love at Ascots is practi-

anyone who has experienced

one else celebrating a special

cally part of the dessert menu.

Alfred Konrad’s exceptional fish

occasion. [Kamilah Cannonier

• 24 Rosemont Avenue, Hamilton, 295-9644

tacos can attest that the food

abstained from voting.]

is enough by far, but the added

Maître D’

• Tel: 304-8181

bonus of the sun and sea makes

pPaolo Odoli

comed the littlest diners with

it all so much better.

open arms, but now thanks to

• 36 Water Street, St. George’s, 297-1307

Catherine Burns of Nutrifit and Natural Nutrition Bermuda, kids

Fresh Local Fish

are dining more healthily than

couples choosing its enchanting atmosphere to woo the one they

“People sought me out to make sure that I knew that Paolo Odoli was the best,” said one of our judges, who admitted to being

pRustico

overwhelmed by how passion-

Trattoria partnered with Burns in

The menu at Rustico is swim-

ate his supporters were. Their

2013 to develop a menu for kids

ming with fresh local fish, pre-

reasoning? Paolo is a jack-of-all-

that both satisfies their hunger

pared with resident hands and

trades, doing everything he can

and fills their tummies with good,

enjoyed by resident mouths.

to ensure that his customers (at

nutritious food, free of antibiot-

• 8 North Shore Road, Flatts, 295-5212

Red Steakhouse and Bar) have

ever at the family restaurant. La

ics, hormones and excess sugar and fat. If that’s not kid-friendly, we don’t know what is.

people's choice award

• 22 Washington Lane, Hamilton, 295-1871

The People Have Spoken!

Private Dining Room

absolutely everything they need—

pWine Room at Ascots

even if it’s just a smile and a hello.

Whether you’re dining for busi-

• 55 Front Street, Hamilton, 292-7331

ness or pleasure, the glass-

Happiest Happy Hour

Favourite Pub

Best Pizza

Favourite Hotel Restaurant

La Hamilton Swizzle Waterlot Inn Trattoria Princess Inn

66 | The Bermudian

www.thebermudian.com

Butcher pThe Supermart Fillet steak, hanger steak, beef rib, pork, chicken and fresh local fish—the butcher’s counter at The Supermart is no place for vegetarians. The well-qualified butchers urge their customers to hunker down and get creative with meaty meals, cut and prepared with all the tenderising necessary.

• 125 Front Street, Hamilton, 292-2064

Local Fruits and Veg pJ&J Produce Husband and wife team Junior and Patty Hill have been running J&J Produce since 1979, providing Bermuda’s healthy eaters with colourful fruits and vegetables year-round. With farmland spread out across the island, there’s never a shortage of good-quality produce available through J&J Produce, including (but not limited to) carrots, beets, asparagus, tomatoes, strawberries and various leafy greens. Selling every Saturday at their Devonshire farm stand, the Hills help to make nutritious, locally grown foods more accessible than ever.

• Tel: 236-8616

Wine/Liquor Sales pHenry’s Pantry When picking up liquor on the go, stop by Henry’s Pantry and get everything you need to create the perfect cocktail at home.

• 69 South Road, Southampton, 238-1509

www.thebermudian.com

Summer 2014 | 67

Place to Hear

Food, Drink & Entertainment

Live Music p The Hog Penny Restaurant and Pub With a collection of 600 songs from

Friendliest Wait staff

its cool, cosmopolitan vibe and

pMad Hatters

upscale environment. Each of

Although Mad Hatters attracts

the bartenders at The Pickled

the wildest clientele, the waitstaff

Onion has extensive experience

have no problem remaining cheer-

in whipping up various cocktails,

ful—and it doesn’t seem to be an

including their most popular

act. The all-Bermudian team is

Berry Boost, Pickled Swizzle

genuinely happy to help, even if it

and Jealous Coconut.

means rattling off the list of daily

• 53 Front Street, Hamilton, 295-2263

specials for the umpteenth time.

• 22 Richmond Road, Pembroke, 297-6231

Well-Chosen Wine List

which the audience can make requests, resident crooner Will Black always puts on a show that brings down the house.

Performing nightly throughout the warmer months Black has taken his show to cyber space, now streaming worldwide directly from The Hog Penny Restaurant and Pub via website http://www.tonybrannon.com/HOG_PENNY/index.html.

Rock on, Will.

• 5 Burnaby Hill, Hamilton, 292-2534

p Harry’s Restaurant and Bar Creative

Harry Cox would be proud

Place to Catch a Film

Best Dramatic

Cocktail Menu

that his namesake restaurant,

Production

pThe Pickled Onion

pSpeciality Cinema

Harry’s Restaurant and Bar,

It’s no secret that going to

pSleeping Beauty

Since its opening in 1998, The

has garnered so much attention

the movie theatre can be a

The leading lady may have been

Pickled Onion has used its

for its unique wine list. With an

pricey experience, but with two

asleep for much of the production,

signature cocktails to highlight

extensive collection boasting

theatres, ticket kiosks, 3-D

but the audience was awake and

both New World and Old

screens, comfortable seat-

on the edge of their seats during

World wines, many of the

ing and a vast selection of hot

each performance of BMDS’s

labels available at Harry’s

and cold food to indulge in, a

2013 Pantomime, Sleeping Beau-

are unique to the restaurant

showing at Speciality Cinema is

ty. Of course the show garnered

and found nowhere else on

worth every penny.

many boos, hisses and yells but,

the island—making each sip

• 12 Church Street, Hamilton, 292-2135

in genuine pantomime fashion, it was all in good fun.

• 96 Pitt’s Bay Road, Pembroke, 292-5533

• 11 Washington Street, Hamilton, 292-0848

Photo by Peter Aldrich

something special.

4 Bermudiana Road, Hamilton Open Monday to Friday 7:00 am to 3:00 pm Tel: 295-7687 Follow us on Facebook

NoNNa’s KitcheN Catering the most delicious and widest selection of salads, healthy gluten-free soups and stews and our delicious gluten-free breads.

Talk to us about hosting cocktail parties, too!

We are thrilled to have won the BEST GLUTENFREE MENU and BEST SALAD BAR awards!

68 | The Bermudian

www.thebermudian.com

Harbourside Marine servicing all outboards

Voted Best Boat Repair 2013 & 2014 Happiest Happy Hour pHarry’s Restaurant and Bar

T. 441-505-7965 harboursidemarine@hotmail.com

At the end of a long week, the happiest local folk head to Harry’s Restaurant and Bar to settle into the weekend with cocktails. Unlike most other happy hour venues, Harry’s is buzzing year-round with people mixing and mingling outside of

bouchée is one

a little bit

of bermuda's

of france

best kept

right here

local secrets!

in bermuda.

their usual social circles, making it an all-inclusive occasion.

• 96 Pitt’s Bay Road, Pembroke, 292-5533

Pick-up Bar pCafé Cairo Towards the end of the night, all roads lead to Café Cairo

Le Petit Déjeuner BREAKFAST Daily 7:30am - 2:30pm

where late-night revelers unite.

“People walk in single and leave holding hands,” attested one judge. “It’s the last stop of the night, it’s where everyone ends up.” While not, perhaps, the equation for everlasting love,

Le Déjeuner/LUNCH Daily 11:30am - 2:30pm

several drinks and a shisha pipe certainly seem to bring Bermudians together—even if just for the night.

• 93 Front Street, Hamilton, 295-5155

Musician/Musical

Le Dîner /DINNER Monday - Saturday 6:00pm- 10:00pm CLOSED SUNDAY EVENINGS

Group pCollie Buddz Although not on-island as often as we’d like him to be, it’s for very good reason. Since he first took the stage, Collie Buddz has produced multiple records and toured with the likes of Cypress

We are very proud to be awarded the

Best Breakfast in Bermuda Delicious food and great service makes this a favourite spot for locals and visitors.

Hill, Rebelution and Matisyahu, proudly representing Bermuda every step of the way. When he does have time to come home and perform, everybody and their grandmother is there to proudly sing every word of his every song, with their Bermuda flags held high in the air.

• www.colliebuddz.com

www.thebermudian.com

75 Pitts Bay Road, PemBRoke Tel: 295-5759 www.bouchee.bm Summer 2014 | 69

Food, Drink & Entertainment Place to Shake a Leg

friendly atmosphere as its great-

Tasty Takeout (Dinner)

pSnorkel Park

est assets, adding that it makes

pHouse of India

According to our judges, the

any event “just perfect.”

In a unanimous decision, our

long trek to Snorkel Park earns

• 169 South Road, Paget, 236-4201

judges agreed that takeout from

partygoers the right to let loose.

“I’ve danced at Snorkel like I’ve

Flanagan’s

Fish Sandwich

the House of India is bar none the best in Bermuda, making the

never danced anywhere else!”

pSea Side Grill

said one judge. Another added,

Be prepared; there may a riot

consumed, these authentic Indian

“Part of the experience is drink-

over this one. A fish sandwich

dishes never disappoint.

ing before you get there, mean-

king has been crowned and his

• 57 North Street, Hamilton, 205-6450

point that no matter where they’re

ing that when you do, you’re Place to Watch

wild and free.”

Homegrown (Locally

Televised Sports

• Snorkel Park Beach, Royal Naval Dockyard, 234-6989

made food/drink

pFlanagan’s Outback Sports Bar

product) pSally’s Jams

It’s not whether you win or lose; it’s

Music Venue

how comfortable you are watch-

pBermuda Botanical Gardens

ing your chosen team do the work.

Having made its debut as a music

name is not Art Mel. Instead,

Godet of Sally’s Jams is expe-

With 22 wide-screen TVs there’s

venue when it hosted thousands

those byes at Sea Side Grill have

riencing sweet success. Manu-

no better place to watch a sport-

for the John Lennon Tribute

successfully baited and caught

factured at home from locally

ing event in public, privately, than

Concert in 2012, the show ring at

themselves the Best of Bermuda

grown fruit, Godet’s jams have

in your own booth at Flanagan’s

the Bermuda Botanical Gardens

Award for tastiest fish sandwich.

become favourites with locals,

Outback Sports Bar.

is now the sought-after location

You know what that means? The

as well as with visitors looking to

• Emporium Building, 69 Front Street, Hamilton, 295-8299

for all local concerts. Our judges

battle lines are drawn over Best

experience a little taste of Ber-

cited its garden setting, vast

of Bermuda 2015!

muda after they return home.

amount of space and family-

• 81 North Shore Road, Devonshire, 292-1241

• E-mail: sallies@northrock.bm

When it comes to producing locally made products, Sally

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70 | The Bermudian

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Codfish Breakfast pMid-Atlantic Boat Club

Celebrate With Us

When it comes to traditional codfish and potatoes, Mid-Atlantic Boat Club serves up an authentic breakfast with “the works,” like fried bananas, avocado and tomato sauce—along with an added view of the open ocean.

• 37 North Shore Road, Devonshire, 295-0172

Fish Chowder pLobster Pot It seems that ordering up a bowl of steaming fish chowder at Lobster Pot is just as traditional as the dish itself. Bold, hearty and full of black rum, Lobster Pot’s rendition of the time-honoured favourite is the real deal.

• 6 Bermudian Road, Hamilton, 292-6898

Local Fare

Proud Winner of Two Awards Happiest Happy Hour & Well-Chosen Wine List

pBlackhorse Tavern If you’re not a regular, you’ll still be treated like one at Blackhorse Tavern where only real Bermuda food is served and only real Bermuda camaraderie is expected. Dig into mussel stew, fresh local rockfish and traditional shark hash for a taste of local flavour unavailable in the same way anywhere else.

• 101 St. David’s Road, St. David’s, 297-1991

judges Alexis Barker PwC, Senior Associate Insurance/ Reinsurance Daniel J. Woods Event Manager at Off Level BDA Sue Kemp Interior Designer Nicholas Boorman Assistant Property Underwriter, ACE Bermuda Insurance Ltd. Kamilah Cannonier Owner, Sweet SAAK Bakery

www.thebermudian.com

Summer 2014 | 71

by Amy Peniston • illustrations by dana cooper

Shopping & Services the case, the Bermuda Book-

a unique and compelling picture

artists Jonah Jones, Chesley

store has once again scored top

of the island’s creative culture.

Trott, Christopher Marson and

marks with the island’s avid read-

With exhibits that rotate every

Christopher Grimes. Admission

ers. Looking for a specific book?

six weeks, the gallery invari-

to the gallery is free.

Visit www.bdabooks.bm to

ably boasts an eclectic lineup

• 4 Maritime Lane, Dockyard, 234-2809

submit a request for an individual

of textiles, paintings, sculptures

Book Store p Bermuda Bookstore

title; if it’s not in stock they’ll bring

and more. Be sure to inquire

it in and call you when it arrives!

about upcoming workshops;

Great Gifts p Pulp & Circumstance

Maybe it’s the smiling staff, the

• 3 Queen Street, Hamilton, 295-3698

classes are taught by experts

Lively, diverse and fun are three

in a variety of fields and are

words that describe the unique

open to participants of all ages.

selection of items waiting to

thick titles longing to be opened.

Art Gallery p Bermuda Arts Centre

The Bermuda Arts Centre at

be discovered inside Pulp &

Or maybe it’s their unbeatable

Set against the backdrop of the

Dockyard is also a great place

Circumstance. Tucked away

service and speedy delivery of

historic Royal Naval Dockyard,

to mingle with and support local

on one of Hamilton’s busiest

special-order books. Whatever

the Bermuda Arts Centre paints

talent including the four resident

alleyways, this treasure trove

comforting worn wooden floors or the stacks upon stacks of

is a passionate purveyor of the “one-of-a-kind.” Their fesFresh Flowers p Demco The perfect bouquet demands a delicate touch and a passion for colour, shape, texture and scent. Judging by their rave reviews and extensive collection of stunning arrangements, it’s clear that the creative professionals at Demco have mastered the art. The freshest of flowers are nestled lovingly into position and accented with bright tissue paper, ribbons, shells or even balloons. Planning a wedding or special client gathering? Their exotic

tive holiday offerings, frequent discounts and eclectic greetingcard collection are even more reason to stop here first on your quest for the perfect gift. You’ll never know what you may find!

• 4 Washington Lane, Hamilton, 542-9586

event creations can be customised to complement the décor and make a lasting impression on your guests. • 14 South Road, Devonshire, 234-7777

72 | The Bermudian

www.thebermudian.com

Aw

xcellence E f o d ar

Toy Store p Little People’s Toys Surprise your child with a trip to Little People’s Toys, recognised once again this year for its selection of collectables, games, stuffed animals, kits, costumes and much more. There are toys for all ages and every occasion, including plenty of inexpensive party items to fill treat bags or piñatas. Plus, their convenient location and long hours on Saturday and Sunday make this a fun spot for a weekend outing.

photo: scott tucker

• 62 Victoria Street, Hamilton, 292-7527

Yo Cherry

warehouse-style shopping

mention the wide range of sea-

mecca known as PriceRite. Pre-

sonal gift items and magazines

pare to be overwhelmed by the

to keep you occupied while you

towering displays of flat-screens

wait to pick up your prescription.

TVs, supersized grocery items

• 62 Victoria Street, Hamilton, 292-7527

and shelf after shelf of house-

The island is abuzz with rave reviews for the frozen yogurt store

hold cleaning products. It’s a

Pet Pampering/Supplies

known as Yo Cherry. A clean, bright interior beckons passersby, as

bargain-shopper’s paradise

p Noah’s Ark

do cheerful signs and welcoming employees. Mix and match fresh

filled with bulk products at

Even non-pet-owners know

and exciting flavours to your heart’s content using the handy self-

deeply discounted prices.

that there’s no better place

serve machines; once you’ve filled your cup, choose from dozens

• 10 Mill Reach Lane, Pembroke, 295-7111

than Noah’s Ark to stock up

upon dozens of toppings to customise your creation: gooey, salty, gummy, fruity—we bet you can’t pick just one!

This year’s judges praised Yo Cherry not only for their selec-

Place to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

on quality pet products. With over 17 years of experience, this family-operated, animal-centric

tion of creamy frozen goods but also for their innovative market-

p Yo Cherry

ing style and incredible customer engagement. The frequent

The frozen yogurt craze is

business revolves around af-

prize give-aways and entertaining contests provide even more

sweeping Bermuda and at its

fordable products, knowledge-

incentive to pop in for a quick lunchtime snack. If you’re lucky,

heart is Yo Cherry. A recent

able staff and happy customers.

you might just walk away with a free yogurt.

addition to the island’s sweet-

Their range of bedding, food,

Yo Cherry is conveniently situated on Bermudian Road, just a

tooth scene, this shop invites

toys and treats makes it glori-

short distance from Front Street and the Hamilton Ferry Terminal.

you to design a one-of-a-

ously simple to care for (read:

Relax with your treat in their colourful outdoor seating area or

kind desert with flavours like

spoil) your furry, hairy, scaly or

head to one of the three parks nearby (Par-La-Ville, Barr’s Bay

dreamy dark chocolate, tropical

feathered companion.

or Point Pleasant) if you fancy a stroll. In addition, their extended

Creamsicle or top-selling ooey

• 3 Marsh Lane, Devonshire, 236-1533

nighttime hours make this a great place for a post-dinner splurge

gooey Cinnabon. For toppings,

or fun first date. Be sure to check their Facebook page for the lat-

stick to the basics (chocolate

Helpful

est opening times and daily flavour lineup.

chips or sprinkles) or splurge for

Hardware Store

• 8 Bermudiana Road, Hamilton, 292-2020

gummies, fresh fruit or shredded

p Gorham’s

coconut. Their selection and service is guaranteed to have Grocery Store p Lindo’s

whenever possible, fruits and vegetables fresh out of local

The friendly atmosphere and

gardens. The lively vibe and

commitment to excellence at

pleasant staff make shopping

Lindo’s keep the parking lots

painless and—dare we say—fun.

bustling and turn every cus-

• 128 Middle Road, Warwick, 236-1344 and 4 Watlington Road, Devonshire, 236-5623

you coming back for seconds!

• 8 Bermudiana Road, Hamilton, 292-2020

Pharmacy p People’s Pharmacy

superstore has shown that good

For the second year in a row this award goes to the neighborhood favourite, Gorham’s—where helpful and hardware go hand-inhand. Looking for a specific item but don’t know where to begin?

Consult one of the knowledge-

A central location with ample

able staff members at the

parking and convenient hours—

information desk. In the mood to

what more could you ask for in a

browse? Count on the Gorham’s

Warehouse-Style Shopping

pharmacy? People’s Pharmacy

crew to point you in the right

has set the bar for so many

p PriceRite

direction. And, if you have to

years that we’ve actually lost

exchange or return a product,

goods. We also love their pro-

“I walked in for the first time

count. Our judges couldn’t say

customer service is always on

duce department that features,

and—‘WOAH!’” remembers

enough for the respectful atmo-

point and ready to assist.

one judge about visiting the

sphere and caring staff. Not to

• 62 St. John’s Road, Pembroke, 295-1550

tomer into a repeat customer.

Lose yourself in the diverse selection of meats and cheeses, the immense frozen section and the aroma of still-warm baked

www.thebermudian.com

Summer 2014 | 73

Car Mechanic

Shopping & Services

p Martins Precision Automotive Looking for someone to down vehicle? Leave

of Sea-M Electric Ltd., has

your wheels in the hands

secured this year’s title of Ber-

of Paul Martins, expe-

muda’s best electrician. Chris’s

rienced veteran in the

experienced eye and honed

field of car repairs. Paul

troubleshooting skills will ensure

and the rest of the busy

that even the most intricate

crew at Martins Precision

installation or maintenance job

Automotive offer speedy

is completed without a hitch.

service at very reason-

Kitchen Tools & Accessories

• 295-2323

able prices, helping you

p International Imports

Computer & Other

quickly as possible.

International Imports is the one

Device Sales

• 8 Hurst Crescent,

place to go for restaurant-quality

p Redlaser

Pembroke, 296-3694

appliances, equipment and sup-

Specialising in ink cartridges,

plies. You will be blown away by

computer accessories and a

their collection of knives and cata-

miscellany of other gadgetry,

logue of tools for whizzing, slicing,

Redlaser is our first stop for

Boat Repair

pouring, frying, measuring and

anything and everything elec-

p Harbourside Marine

more. Shopping for the avid foodie

tronic. The personable staff is

in your family? Their gift certificates

Maintaining a boat can be a

well versed in matters of both

make the perfect stocking stuffer

nightmare unless you hire the

hardware and software support,

or birthday-card filler.

right person for the job. Andrew

plus they offer free island-wide

Cottingham of Harbourside

• 44 Par-La-Ville Road, Hamilton, 292-1661

delivery—how convenient is

Marine has defended his title as

Lawn & Garden Care

that? Look for the Redlaser Bike Mechanic

Bermuda’s best boat repairman,

p Bermuda Landscaping

building at the intersection of

p Ambrosio Cycles

proving that he knows water-

Bakery Lane and Addendum

craft like the back of his hand.

“They are incredibly hard work-

The only thing more important

Lane off Serpentine Road.

• 505-7965

than a working bike is speedy,

• 8 Bakery Lane, Pembroke, 296-6400

get back on the road as

affordable repair service when

doing more!" enthused one of

Gas Station

that bike goes on the blink.

Computer Service

Ambrosio Cycles is open on

p Decisions Ltd.

Saturdays and has competitive

ers who never have a problem

pRUBiS Warwick Gas Station

our judges; her positive experience with Bermuda Landscaping persuaded the panel that

Service and smiles await you

this dedicated team deserves

Setting up a complex network

prices to boot. Most importantly

at the RUBiS Warwick Gas

an award. The company proudly

infrastructure? Or just trouble-

their mechanics have extensive

Station on South Shore Road.

trains young Bermudians rather

shooting a home wireless system?

experience with most makes

Our judges love the extended

than hire workers on work per-

The process may seem like rocket

and models which ensures all

hours and unbeatable selection

mits. Their commitment to client

science, but to the tech wizards at

repair work is done lickety-split.

of grocery items. Their hot lunch

continuity is evidenced by two

Decisions Ltd. it’s just another day

specials, freshly baked goods

of their senior staff who have

• 6 Market Lane, Pembroke, 292-2205

on the job. They provide unbeat-

and in-house HSBC ATM also

worked for the business for

able support when and where it’s Electrician

help to put this gas station in a

over 50 years! Services run the

needed across a wide range of

p Sea-M Electric Ltd.

category all its own.

gamut of outdoor maintenance

devices. Save yourself the frustra-

• 72 South Road, Warwick, 236-4158

including trimming, felling, plant-

Chris Montgomery, president of

tion and give them a call—you

ing, mowing and much more.

the Bermuda Electrical Contrac-

won’t regret the decision.

• Cavendish Road, Pembroke, 292-0711 or

people's choice award

• 295-4533

The People Have Spoken!

74 | The Bermudian

Health & Fitness Club

Court House

Freshest Flowers

Spa

Flowers Willow

By Gimi Stream

Hair Salon

Strands www.thebermudian.com

photo: scott tucker

trust with your broken tors Association and founder

Shopping & Services Sports Equipment 704-7740

p Sports R Us Rackets, clubs, bats, boards, rods and nets line the walls of Bermuda’s best for sports equipment, Sports R Us. Deck yourself out in all the necessary protective gear, take a few test swings and even pick up a new pair of sneakers while you’re at it. Everything you need to exercise, practise or compete professionally is available under one roof. It doesn’t get much easier than that.

• 61 Church Street, Hamilton, 292-1891

Upholsterer

For Patio & Pool

p Eastwood for Upholstering

p Island Trading

With 30-plus years of experi-

With all the time Bermudians

ence under his belt, Mr. Reid at

spend outdoors, it’s no wonder

Eastwood for Upholstering has

that we value our poolside ac-

established a devoted following

coutrements. It’s also no wonder

and an excellent repute. The

that our judges unanimously

meticulous care with which he

recommended Island Trading

tackles each and every project

for quality outdoor furniture and

inspired one judge to announce

lounge equipment. The mas-

that she has never been disap-

sive indoor showroom features

pointed with his results—or his

cushioned chairs, wicker tables,

prices. Mr. Reid’s personalised

weatherproof sofas, umbrellas

service is well worth the trip to

and much more, all tastefully

the Heron Bay shopping plaza.

arranged as if out of the pages of

• 227 Middle Road, Southampton, 238-2288

a magazine. As one judge asked: • 93 Reid Street East, Hamilton, 292-0400

enterprise@logic.bm

• 28 Bostock Hill East, Paget, 232-4194

Plumber

Health & Fitness Club

p David Hayward

p Fitness Fusion

Our judges agree that Da-

Relieve stress and invigorate

vid Hayward’s reputation for

your lifestyle with help from the

dependability, honesty and

energetic training professionals

Interior Designer/

character distinguish him from

at Fitness Fusion. Their belly-

Decorator

the long list of helpful plumb-

blasting, blood-pumping weekly classes are a perfect way to re-

p Gregory Nelmes Interior Design

Cell Phone Sales

ing professionals on the island.

Whether troubleshooting a

lieve stress and tone your body;

Gregory Nelmes Interior Design

p CellOne

chronic leak or responding to

new training sessions are added

believes that just as no two

a plumbing emergency, David

frequently to keep your workout

For the fourth consecutive year,

people are exactly alike, neither

consistently maintains a confi-

feeling fresh. For a unique

CellOne has pulled ahead of

should any two environments be

dent, experienced persona and

training regimen your friends

competitors thanks to their in-

the same. Their design is client

always aims to please. His expe-

won’t believe, inquire about their

novative marketing techniques.

focused, integrating an exact-

rience, especially with regard to

intensive pole dancing courses!

As you walk through the door, a

ing, appropriate vocabulary.

plumbing parts and accessories,

friendly sales representative with

• 9 Washington Lane, Hamilton, 541-3489

It’s also timeless—a longevity

an iPad swoops in to direct you

which is produced by honouring

to the next available agent. Need

classical elements of the past

help picking out a new phone?

and present, from the modern to

Their knowledgeable staff will

the antique—creating environ-

be more than happy to suggest

ments that are elegantly casual

a model to fit your lifestyle. And,

and chic. Visit the designer at

if you’re minding your wallet,

his studio and retail location,

our judges agree that CellOne’s

Gregory Nelmes Home, in his-

Black Friday deals and promo-

toric St. George’s.

tions are always the best.

• 8 Duke of York Street, St. George’s,

• 18 Church Street, Hamilton, 700-7000

is without equal.

“Where else would you go?”

& Service

Caterer p Island Restaurant Group Memorable events require memorable service, which is why we turn to the awardYoga/Pilates Studio p Lotus

winning catering team at the Island Res-

Treat your mind, body and spirit to an engaging and energising

taurant Group. Gourmet mains, sides and

class at Lotus, Bermuda’s favourite yoga and pilates studio.

desserts are uniquely customised to fit any

Lotus’s team of in-house professionals is adept at combining

event, large or small, seated or standing.

challenging poses, dynamic transitions and deep stretches to

Our judges rave about the generous portions,

improve participants’ flexibility and core strength. Hour-long

unique cocktails and themed buffets—

sessions for all ages and skill levels run seven days a week.

and your guests will too!

• 46 Victoria Street, Hamilton, 296-5900

• 295-3648

76 | The Bermudian

www.thebermudian.com

proach and effective training strategies, Haley Bright at The Athletic Club has earned this year’s award for best personal Place for a Mani/Pedi

trainer. Haley helps you attain

p Orchid Nail Spa

results and achieve your fitness

Escape for an afternoon of re-

goals while providing compas-

laxation at the Orchid Nail Spa,

sionate instruction tailored to

conveniently located in Ham-

your every need. Book a session

ilton and open seven days a

today and see for yourself!

New Local Ad/Promotion p Burnt House Productions

week. Their selection of polishes

• 6 Washington Street, Hamilton, 295-

“Happy” by Burnt House Productions will be remembered across the island

ranges from sassy to classy, fun

6140 or 599-7213

as the viral online sensation of 2014. Over the course of one weekend, the video scored more than 60,000 views and has been recognised as one of

to sophisticated, bold to subtle.

Male and female clients of all

Fishing Charter

the best representations of Bermuda culture, character and hospitality. A

ages are welcome; the spa also

p Playmate

special thanks to Andrew Kirkpatrick, Kim Brewer, Laura Siegfried and the

caters to private events, girls’

Captain Kevin Winters runs a

entire Burnt House Productions crew for making this smash hit possible.

nights out and teenage birthday

tight ship. His 43-foot vessel

• 337-1276

parties. Be sure to inquire about

Playmate offers novices, enthu-

holiday specials and combined

siasts and professional anglers

manicure-pedicure bundles!

the chance to experience the

• 54 Par-la-Ville Road, Hamilton, 296-8696

excitement of deep-sea fishing—Bermuda style! Captain

Personal Trainer

Winters offers the full gamut of

p Haley Bright

fishing equipment and is able to

Thanks to her committed ap-

arrange catering if you expect to work up an appetite on board.

Mechanical

|

Body & Paint

|

Towing

• 4 Mill Point Lane, Pembroke, 292-7131

sionals are masters of the fine

Hair Salon

arts of hair highlighting, colour-

p Cabelo Hair & Beauty

ing and braiding. Attending a

Stick to a basic cut or book a

special event? The skilled styl-

whole-head treatment at our

ists at Cabelo will be happy to

favourite salon, Cabelo Hair &

sculpt you the perfect updo.

Beauty. Their in-house profes-

• 10 Park Road, Hamilton, 295-1873

|

Tires

|

Welding

|

TCD Testing

LOCAL DISTRIBUTORS FOR:

Car Oils Truck Oils Marine Oils Motorcycle Oils Racing Oils Lawn Equipment Transmission Oil Construction Equipment Fuel Treatments Grease Hydraulic Oils Car Care Products

Lucas Oil just ask for it at participating Auto and Truck Shops, Cycle Shops, Marine Shops and Service Stations.

Protect your investment, make it last and use high performance oils at the lowest pricing in Bermuda.

Tel: 441-296-3694

www.thebermudian.com

|

High quality automotive and marine paints.

Hundreds of colours to chose from.

High performance spark plugs.

Available for most models of cars, bikes and lawn equipment.

Fax: 441-296-3961

|

Can also be used for furniture, gates and anything else you can come up with.

Paint Repainting your bike and need something flashy? Come take a look at our Vibrance Collection.

Tons of different flakes and pearl colours to chose from.

E-mail: office@mpauto.bm Summer 2014 | 77

Shopping & Services vintage designer clothing plus Diligent Real

makes ordering a breeze and

from Bermudian entrepreneurs.

Estate Agent

they’ve got plenty of experience

If you somehow manage to

p Coldwell Banker

with tank cleaning and repairs if

emerge empty-handed, leave

Bermuda Realty

you’re in need of the whole pack-

Coldwell Banker Bermuda

age. Pool troubles? Hire Wett &

Realty’s own Fiona Hatfield

Wild for hassle-free pool draining

and Reggie Fleming embody

and filling.

all of the traits we admire in

• 538-9388

your name and a description of what you’re looking for with one of the friendly staff members Orange Bay Company

Their prompt, island-wide delivery

a variety of home-grown wares

and they’ll give you a call when something that fits the bill turns up! How’s that for service? • 4 Mill Creek Road, Pembroke, 295-5400

Home Furnishings

diligent real estate agents. Their commitment to client requests, broad expertise and familiarity with the changing marketplace

& Décor

Investment Advice

p Orange Bay Company

p IFP

working peers. Fiona, Reggie

Barber

Attention all connoisseurs of

The very knowledgeable experts

and the rest of their elite team—

p The Cutting Room

gently used treasures: the wildly

at IFP (International Finan-

we salute you!

For the second year in a row,

popular Orange Bay Company

cial Planning) deliver winning

• 11 Par-la-Ville Road, Hamilton, 292-1793

the lovely ladies at The Cutting

is home to Bermuda’s most

investment strategies tailored to

unique selection of furniture

suit each client’s needs, budget

Water Trucking Service

as best barbers in Bermuda.

and home accessories. And

and portfolio. Their sound

p Wett & Wild Water Service

Opt for a traditional trim, clean

if that isn’t reason enough to

advice emphasises security and

shave or fancy buzz while enjoy-

consistency across a range of

Count on the water wizards at

pay them a visit, the Orange

ing lighthearted small talk and

financial topics including retire-

Wett & Wild Water Service to top

Bay Company showroom now

pleasant company.

ment and education planning.

off your tank and help you survive

boasts a second floor full of

the sweltering summer months.

• 37 Reid Street, Hamilton, 292-0577

set them apart from their hard-

Room have earned their stripes

• 5 Reid Street, Hamilton, 297-4375

Best in the

Business

Pro-Tone Cleaning Services Limited is proud to have won the

Best of Bermuda Award 2014 for Best Cleaning Services. We would like to thank all of our staff and valued clients for making this possible.

PHONE 292-1456 www.pro-tone.bm Commercial | Residential | Janitorial | Carpet | Upholstery | Windows | Post-Construction | 34 Dundonald Street, Hamilton | info@pro-tone.bm 78 | The Bermudian

www.thebermudian.com

a surprise!) when taxis arrive

individual needs. Their exclusive

Health Care

on time. That’s why our judges

Spa

product line and acclaimed

Professional

recognise Oliver Bain for his

p La Serena Spa

therapists guarantee a soothing

p Catherine Burns

prompt, dependable service,

A full suite of signature mas-

and memorable experience.

Catherine Burns, nutritional

day or night. Mr. Bain caters

sages, facials, detoxes and

• The Reefs, 56 South Shore Road, South-

therapist and managing director

mainly to the insurance and

wraps, a stunning view of the

of Natural Ltd., has taken the

reinsurance sectors but can also

Atlantic ocean and a rewarding

Bermuda health community by

provide knowledgeable tours for

customer-loyalty programme—it’s

storm with her enjoyable holistic

visitors to the island.

no wonder La Serena Spa has

approach to personal wellness.

• 337-5369 or ogbain@logic.bm

secured their title as best spa in

In addition to writing a weekly column for the Royal Gazette, Catherine cultivates a passion-

Private Party Boat Charter

ate following through private

p UberVida

classes, workshops and a

Sail into the sunset on UberVida,

motivational running programme

a deluxe 70-foot catamaran, and

called Beat the Couch. Be sure

discover why this company sets

to follow the Nutrifit and Natural

the bar for private boat charters.

Nutrition Facebook page for

The yacht’s multiple decks,

links, recipes and resources to

lounge areas and full-service bars

help maintain a healthier lifestyle.

can accommodate up to 150

• 236-7511

guests, which is just one of the

Bermuda for the second year in a row. Treat your feet, face, body or hands to one of their many special therapeutic or beauty services, tailored to meet your

reasons why they’ve hosted official Bermuda Spring Break parTaxi Driver

ties for the last two years. For any

p Oliver Bain

occasion, laid-back or highbrow,

While most Bermudians con-

UberVida lets you schmooze,

sider it fashionable to be five

booze and savour the ocean

minutes late, it’s still a relief (and

breeze in comfort and style.

UberVida

• 236-2222

BEST GAS STATIONS At RUBiS, we UNDERSTAND that values like TRUST AND SERVICE should be passed down from one generation to the next. Our teams work hard to DELIVER the BEST EXPERIENCE possible when you visit any of our conveniently located stations.

No matter your car’s age, advanced ULTRA TEC Gasoline keeps you going.

GET RUBiS. GET GOING www.rubis-bermuda.com facebook.com/RUBiSBermuda

www.thebermudian.com

Summer 2014 | 79

Shopping & Services schools, and public and private

whether you’re tending a flowampton, 239-0184

erbed or growing a vegetable

Government Services

primary, middle and second-

patch. Your thumb will be looking

p Department of Health’s Speech and Language Services

ary schools. We are pleased to

Speech-language patholo-

service to the community.

Cleaning Service

gists (SLPs) are autonomous

• 278-6429

pPro-Tone Cleaning Services

health professionals who have

greener in no time!

• 3 Pomander Road, Paget, 236-2927

With over three decades of experience, Pro-Tone Cleaning Services has been crowned this year’s king of no-nonsense, nohassle cleaning services. Their Aberfeldy Nurseries

team of conscientious and hard-

photo: scott tucker

working technicians is secondto-none for big jobs, small jobs Garden Gear

and all jobs in between. The

p Aberfeldy Nurseries

in-house rug cleaning service,

Count on the gardening gurus at

which includes collection and

Aberfeldy Nurseries to outfit your

redelivery, also scores top

wardrobe or work shed with all of

marks. Call today for a consulta-

the sturdiest outdoor gear. Their

tion or to book an appointment

arsenal of tools and accessories

that fits your busy schedule.

covers all levels of experience,

• 34 Dundonald Street, Hamilton, 292-1456

The MX Subwoofers are the affordable alternative for those who value great bass performance in their boat. Designed by the same team and built on the same U.S. production line as the more expensive M-Series, they deliver outstanding sub-bass performance in moderate power applications.

Awesome Audio/

language development and in

Visual Sales

the disorders of communication

p Custom Acoustics

and swallowing. SLPs aim to prevent speech-and-language/ feeding challenges through screening and the provision of consumer information, as well as to optimise skills in these areas through the implementation of intervention strategies. The 14 SLPs of the Department of Health’s Speech and Language Services work closely with parents, caregivers and teachers, providing support and services in clients’ homes, nursery

PLAYBAR

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• 13 Cox’s Hill Road, Pembroke, 295-2277

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80 | The Bermudian

www.thebermudian.com

ALL-INCLUSIVE INTERACTIVE ISLAND ECO-TOURS

O F

B E R M U D A

LT D

Friendliest Customer Service p Java Jive Frequent customers agree—

TEL: 441-704-0999 bermyreefexplorer@gmail.com

RESERVATIONS ONLINE: www.bermudahiddengems.com

when it comes to welcoming wait staff, Java Jive has the best. Their servers make you feel at home by remembering your name and preferred breakfast combo. Our judges gush over the personable touch, positive vibes and dependable service that ensure no patron or coffee cup goes unattended.

• 29 Victoria Street, Hamilton, 296-5050

Wildcard: Best Spent $20 p Roti Humble yet delicious, this local

The Department of Health’s Speech and Language Services thank The Bermudian Magazine for voting us “Best Government Service 2014”.

We take this opportunity to remind all parents and caregivers of children entering Primary One in Bermuda Government Schools in September 2014 to attend the Speech and Language Screenings that will be taking place from June 30 to July 11, 2014.

favourite pleases lunchtime crowds with a fusion of Eastern Caribbean flavours. One of their

Health Dept. Ad.indd 1

5/9/14 4:01 PM

popular Trinidadian specialties is a flatbread sandwich filled with chickpeas, also known as “doubles.” In addition, they offer a variety of home-style roti and curry combos that are seasoned to perfection and very reasonably priced. Best yet, you can even throw in a drink or sweet snack and still be under $20!

• 55 Court Street, Hamilton, 293-7684

judges Daina Casling Legal Counsel, RenaissanceRe Suzi Outerbridge Stix Around, Kid’s Labels Russell De Moura Freelance Designer Marissa Brangman Department of Health, Community Rehab Michele Smith Managing Director OBM International www.thebermudian.com

Summer 2014 | 81

by Laura Bell • illustrations by dana cooper

Clothing & Accessories Ties p The English Sports Shop

Women’s Fashion

Are you a classic solid-with-a-crest, a funky Bermuda-inspired or

p Atelerie

an on-trend, skinny-tie kinda guy? No matter, they have them all

A combination of the French

at The English Sports Shop. Whether you are matching your tie

words atelier (boutique) and

with your cherry red Bermuda shorts or pairing it with a sleek new

galerie (art gallery), Atelerie is

suit, the Front Street store has all the brands, colours and patterns

the epitome of French boutique

you could ever desire. Be sure to go upstairs to check out the ties

charm with clothes as beauti-

from the Alexandre of London label. • 49 Front Street, Hamilton, 295-2672

ful as art. In their new home on Reid Street, the boutique carries some of the most sought-after

Men’s Business Wear

the best for all things office-ap-

what we need. [Rebecca Han-

contemporary designers includ-

p The English Sports Shop

propriate and beyond! [Rebecca

son abstained from voting.]

ing Diane von Furstenberg, Feel

Back in 1918 when The English

Hanson abstained from voting.]

the Piece, Halston Heritage,

Sports Shop was founded,

• 49 Front Street, Hamilton, 295-2672

• 29 Front Street, Hamilton, 295-3961 ext.

201 or customerservice@ascooper.bm

Men’s Casual Wear

Women’s

p A.S. Cooper Man

Business Attire

men didn’t just dress for the office, they dressed up for leisure and sporting occasions

lywood loves them, so here’s

p Gibbons Company

alike—which is why that tweed

At A.S. Cooper Man they be-

blazer in your closet is called a

lieve that “if you look good, you

Women have to suit up and

“sport coat”! Even as styles and

do well” and our judges agreed.

show up too, and according to

trends have evolved over the

From classic Ralph Lauren polo

our judges, the best place to

years, the Front Street store has

shirts to edgy Lucky Brand tees

get the most office-appropriate

continuously served Bermuda’s

for the weekend, Helly Hansen

duds without sacrificing your

businessmen with the largest

jackets for the bike and trendy

style is at Gibbons Company.

collection of colourful Bermuda

Calvin Klein shirts for your next

The large department store

shorts, linen jackets and made-

night out, this popular men’s

carries both classic styles and

to-measure suits from their

store has all the best brands and

cutting-edge contemporary

Alexandre of London depart-

styles for any occasion. And

fashion to suit whatever busi-

ment. Whether they choose to

their excellent customer service

ness you are in—whether you are

show their knees or not, local

helps even the most fashion un-

the CEO or a summer intern.

businessmen know that ESS is

savvy amongst us find exactly

• 21 Reid Street, Hamilton, 295-0022

82 | The Bermudian

Soft Joie and many more. Holyour chance to dress like the celebrity you already are!

• 9 Reid Street, Hamilton, 296-0280 or info@atelerie.com, www.atelerie.com

www.thebermudian.com

ellence c x E f o d r a w A

Shoe Store p Perry Footwear Sure, guys may not understand a woman’s obsession with shoes, but Perry Footwear certainly does. From dainty ballet flats to high-fashion stilettos with even higher heels, this favourite of local fashionistas is our judges’ choice for the best in style, selection and service. We say if the shoe fits…buy it in every colour!

photo:amanda temple

• 44 Reid Street, Hamilton, 296-8097 or perryfootwear@mac.com

Alexandra Mosher Bermudian artist and jewellery designer Alexandra Mosher’s new store in the Washington Mall has been described as a “wonderland of treasures.” The dreamy 450-square-foot boutique has an abundance of fine silver, gold and gemstone jewellery all hand-crafted by Mosher, who can often be found in her corner workshop space creating something beautiful. She first launched her jewellery line in 2005 and she now has both local and international clients eager to wear her latest elegant creations.

While Mosher has studied at some of the top US universities, her inspiration definitely comes from her island home.

The majority of her custom creations reflect some aspect of Bermuda’s flora and fauna, with her pink coral sand pieces being especially popular with visitors and locals alike. Mosher creates the moulds—often of shells and large gemstones—and then casts, polishes and finishes the work herself in her studio using high quality sterling silver and gold. Her distinct style, truly Bermudian inspiration and highly professional business sense has earned Mosher the highest of praises from our judges this year.

• Washington Mall West, Lower Level, 7 Reid Street, Hamilton,

designer’s work has been featured

Men’s Jeans

in many local fashion shows

p Jeans Express

recently—garnering him much ac-

Levi’s invented the very first pair

claim for his breezy, free-flowing

of blue jeans in 1873—and they

style and ultra-feminine, some-

have been on the cutting edge

times envelope-pushing designs.

of jeans fashion design ever

We look forward to seeing what’s

since. Whether you are a slim,

next for the talented designer.

straight or relaxed, the men’s

[Rebecca Hanson & Dana Coo-

wardrobe staple from the origi-

per abstained from voting.]

nal jeans company can be found in every wash, cut and style

Local

you prefer at Jeans Express on

Jewellery Designer

Queen Street at prices compa-

p Alexandra Mosher

rable to the US.

Inspired by the island’s natu-

• 30 Queen Street, Hamilton, 295-0084

ral beauty, artist and jewellery designer Alexandra Mosher has been steadily building a name for

p Coral Cleaners

herself with her stunning jewellery

Nothing beats a crisp, perfectly

collections. Mosher is best known

pressed dress shirt and no one

for her Bermuda-sand pieces,

beats the quality and service

each hand-cast in her studio

at Coral Cleaners. In fact our

using jewellery-grade resin, pink

judges say their service is so im-

coral sand and sterling silver, and

pressive you might finally retire

sold both online and at her new

your iron for good.

Washington Mall store.

• 9 Victoria Street, Hamilton, 292-4059 or jshirt@northrock.bm

• Washington Mall West, Lower Level, 7 Reid Street, Hamilton, 236-9009 or orders@alexandramosher.com

236-9009 or orders@alexandramosher.com

essential summer flip-flops from

p Atelerie

Havaianas and even beauty and

Got somewhere to go this sum-

fragrance products to finish off

mer? For a boutique that has it

your perfect summer outfit.

all our judges recommend going

• 9 Reid Street, Hamilton, 296-0280 or info@atelerie.com, www.atelerie.com

to Atelerie and letting the helpful staff find everything you need— from head to toe. Alongside all the gorgeous fashion, Atelerie

Finds p Lovit Boutique

Regardless of size, all Bermudians love to look their best when they are out and about on

Local fashionistas looking for

the weekend, in the office all

the latest designer duds are in

week and on the town at night.

love with Lovit Boutique! The

Girls with curves know their

chic Queen Street store carries

figures will be flattered at Gib-

everything from classy work

bons Company thanks to their

Local Fashion Designer

wear and stunning evening

generous selection of fabulous

p Amethyst

attire to unique casual pieces,

work and weekend wear for all

along with handbags, jewellery

shapes and sizes.

and beauty products from such

• 21 Reid Street, Hamilton, 295-0022

also carries popular undergar-

With a seamstress for a grand-

ments from Hanky Panky and

mother, a face that photographers

Spanx, jewellery and acces-

love and a body fit for the runway,

sories from designers such as

modelling and fashion design

Coralia Leets, Chan Luu, Ken-

came naturally to Amethyst

neth Jay Lane and more, the all-

Richardson. The local fashion

www.thebermudian.com

Plus-size Fashion p Gibbons Company

Fashion-Forward Boutique

Dry Cleaner

popular brands as House of Harlow, Sugarlime and Bailey 44. If it’s trending, it’s at Lovit.

• 22 Queen Street, Hamilton, 295-1239 or info@lovitboutique.com

Summer 2014 | 83

photo: ann spurling

Clothing & Accessories Women’s Jeans

accessories. Our judges love the

p Atelerie

variety and reasonable prices

Finding that perfect pair of jeans

for toddlers to teens.

that fit and flatter a woman’s

• 27 Front Street, Hamilton, 295-3961 ext 213 or customerservice@ascooper.bm

curves while keeping her looking

Scents-ational Scents p Lili Bermuda

trendy is, for most women, akin to

The scents of Lili Bermuda reflect the unique aromas of the island:

finding the Holy Grail. For cutting-

fresh salt spray, pure breeze, spicy cedarwood, spring freesias and

edge designs in super-flattering

juicy loquats. Every hand-filled bottle is meticulously developed,

fits, our judges recommend Atel-

Mama birds in the know find the

bottled and packaged at the historic Stewart Hall building in St.

erie. With popular brands like Rag

best baby gear for their newly

George’s adding to the authenticity of the quality local product. With

& Bone, Citizens and J Brand,

hatched little ones at Nest.

fragrances for men and women, we recommend you take a stroll up

the Reid Street boutique always

Located in the Six Dundonald

Queen Street and smell for yourself.

stocks the latest styles from the

apartment complex, the new

• Stewart Hall, 5 Queen Street, St. George’s, 293-0627 or info@bermuda-perfumery.com, www.bermuda-perfumery.com

hottest designers.

boutique carries all the most

• 9 Reid Street, Hamilton, 296-0280 or info@atelerie.com, www.atelerie.com

Baby Gear p Nest

sought after brands like Bugaboo strollers, Maxi-Cosi car seats, Hotslings, Boba wraps

Trendy Wear—Teens

what you are missing! The cloth-

Lingerie

and the much-loved Crocs-

p A.S. Cooper Express

ing and accessories thrift store

p Secrets

alternative Native shoes. Nest

Dressing to impress is a teen’s

located above the Red Cross

also carries an ingenious line of

headquarters on Berry Hill Road

Women look and feel their best

MO and finding the latest styles

magnetic-close onesies—every

is a treasure trove of gently used

when their undergarments

from top designer brands that

new mama’s must have!

won’t break their piggy bank is

(or never even worn) items for

flatter their outer garments.

often a focus of many a Saturday

men, women and children. The

Hiding panty lines, nipping in a

• 6 Dundonald Street, Hamilton, 296-6378 or www.nestbermuda.com

shopping trip. The top choice for

store is open on Fridays and

our judges (and the multitude of

Saturdays 9am–3pm, and 9am–

teenagers they polled) is A.S.

1pm on Tuesdays.

Cooper Express in the Wash-

• 9 Berry Hill Road, Paget, 236-8253

ington Mall. Alongside fashions from favourite designers like

Workout Wear

tummy or having just enough lace to make you feel supersexy and confident, the lingerie at Secrets is sure to cover your every need. This sophisticated store stocks all the naughty and nice under things you (and your

Rare Editions and My Michelle

p ProShop

as well as well-known brands like

Football players, runners, tennis

Esprit, DKNY and Polo Ralph

players and even yogis all know

Lauren, the store also has a wall

the best spot to get fitted for their

covered with every accessory

favourite sports is underground

Children’s/Baby Wear

imaginable to pull that all-too-

at ProShop where they carry

p A.S. Cooper Children

important outfit together.

athlete’s favourites like Adidas,

Little ones like to look good

• Washington Mall, Reid Street, Hamilton, 296-6525 or customerservice@ ascooper.bm

Reebok, Mitre and more. And if

too! From Carter’s playwear

all you need is something cute to

to special-occasion dresses,

go walking in, they have that, too!

pajamas to Ralph Lauren polo

Thrifty Fashion Finds

Their great service and reasonable

shirts, A.S. Cooper Children on

p Upstairs Closet

prices also help give ProShop the

Front Street is stocked high with

If you haven’t checked out Up-

edge over the competition.

a generous selection of quality

stairs Closet yet, you don’t know

• Kenwood Building, 17 Reid Street, Hamilton, 292–7487

baby and children’s clothing and

partner) could ever desire.

• Washington Mall 1, 20 Church Street, Hamilton, 295–0651 or secrets@ibl.bm

Handbags p Lusso No outfit is complete without the perfect accessories and a luxury handbag helps make just the right statement. Another favourite of the fashion-forward crowd,

people's choice award

Lusso (which means luxury in

The People Have Spoken!

Italian) has all the oversize totes,

Fashion Forward Finds

work-appropriate purses and

Workout Wear

Trendy Jewellery

Atelerie Sportseller Atelerie

84 | The Bermudian

itty-bitty evening clutches a girl can carry from the designers—oh, hello Armani!—she dreams about.

• 51 Front Street, Hamilton, 295-6734 or lusso@tess.bm

www.thebermudian.com

Coolest Shades p Sovereign Sunglasses & Watches As the famous actor once said: “With my sunglasses on, I’m Jack Nicholson. Without them, I’m fat and 60.” For all the local celebrities—including fans Michael Douglas and Collie Buddz—the best place to buy your shades is at newly renovated Sovereign Sunglasses & Watches. From sporty Ray-Bans to uber-glam Versace shades, Sovereign has the ones you need to look fabulous while you hide from the paparazzi.

441-542-9585 4 Washington Lane, Hamilton & U.S. Departure Lounge L.F. Wade International Airport

Exquisite gifts in all price ranges. Fine social stationery.

Invitations, beautiful pens and gifts for all occasions!

beauty

Inspired by Bermuda’s

• 13 Reid Street, Hamilton, 292-7933 or sovereign@logic.bm

Hair Accessories/Hats p The Salon Store Supplying salon professionals and the greater public with

Handcrafted

pink Bermuda sand Art Jewellery

their wide range of quality hair products has been the mandate of The Salon Store since they opened their doors in 2009.

Our judges lauded their wonderful selection and excellent service from charismatic owners Ozzie and Janet Hinds.

• 81 Reid Street, Hamilton, 295-0177 or info@salonitems.com

Fine Jewellery p Davidrose While fairly new to the island, Davidrose has swiftly made a name for themselves in the luxury jewellery market by creating exquisite bridal and engagement jewellery, unique statement pieces and a luxury silver line for local and international clientele alike. When you are looking for something completely custom-made, make a private appointment with Bermudian designer David Zuill who owns the beautiful boutique store with his wife, Avrel.

• Somers Wharf, St. George’s, 293-7673, or info@davidrose.bm, www.davidrose.bm

www.thebermudian.com

Boutique located in Hamilton in the Washington Mall at 7 Reid Street

441-236-9009 ¦ www.alexandramosher.com ¦ Worldwide Shipping

Summer 2014 | 85

Clothing & Accessories Cocktail/Eveningwear p Cécile (now Lusso) They may have closed their doors earlier this year, but the Cécile brands—and the extraordinary customer service—live on at the new Lusso, situated just a little further down on Front Street. No matter if you are looking for a super-cute Lilly Pulitzer sheath dress for a summer cocktail soiree or a full-length beaded ball gown for a black-tie extravaganza, you can be sure that you’ll stand out from the crowd with the perfect dress from Lusso.

• 51 Front Street, Hamilton, 295-6734 or lusso@tess.bm

Cosmetics p A.S. Cooper Shiseido, Lancome, Clarins, Lusso

Estée Lauder, Clinique, Bobbi Brown, Elizabeth Arden—all the best brand-name cosmetics

Trendy Jewellery

Watches

of the best selections of ladies’

are available at A.S. Cooper’s

p Guilty Pleasures

p Crisson Jewellers

and men’s swimwear on the is-

main store on Front Street. And

What’s your guilty pleasure? For

From the technology and style

land as well as all the cover-ups,

as Bobbi Brown said: “I believe

many women we know it is a

of a Casio to the precision and

hats and accessories any beach

that all women are pretty with-

jewellery box (or closet, perhaps)

reliability of a Raymond Weil,

bum could ever want.

out makeup—and can be pretty

overflowing with all manners of

the largest and finest selection

powerful with the right makeup.”

accessories! When the need—

of watches can be found at Cris-

like say, a new outfit—calls for the

son Jewellers—the official Rolex

• 10 Church St, Hamilton, and 16 Camber Rd, Dockyard, 292-4609 or www.makinwaves.bm

perfect pair of oversized earrings

retailer for Bermuda. With the

or a statement necklace, our

greatest selection and service

Bargains, Deals,

judges recommend a trip to

that can’t be beat, it is our

• 59 Front Street & 26 Reid Street, Hamilton, 295-3961 ext 407 or customerservice@ascooper.bm

Guilty Pleasures where you are

judges’ favourite year after year.

guaranteed to find a piece to

• 55 Front Street, Hamilton; 16 Queen Street, Hamilton; and Clocktower Mall, Dockyard, 295-2351 or info@crisson.com, www.crisson.com

make you stand out from the crowd. With their selection of chunky bangles, bold necklaces,

Discounts When a great big department store carries a great big selection of clothing and accessories and then has a great big sale, everyone wins! Our judges

Beachwear

we say life is too short to wear

p Makin’ Waves

boring accessories.

Makin’ Waves really does have

at Gibbons Company during

“everything for fun in, on and

their regular storewide sales,

under the water!” as their tag

and their innovative one-day

line suggests. With popular

premier-customer specials were

brands like Quiksilver, Roxy,

welcome surprises over the

Billabong, Hurley, O’Neill and

recent holiday season.

many more, the store has one

• 21 Reid Street, Hamilton, 295-0022

86 | The Bermudian

A.S. Cooper!

p Gibbons Company

ear cuffs and even body chains,

• Washington Mall 1, Lower Level, 20 Church Street, Hamilton, 703-3338 or guiltypleasuresbda@gmail.com

So go on, find your power at

lauded the fantastic savings to be had for the whole family

www.thebermudian.com

Wildcard: Worst Fashion Trend p Crocs Shoes They are made of plastic, make your feet look awful, are found in garish colours and give the worst tan lines possible. So why do people still wear crocs in public? We have no idea.

judges Kayleigh Scott Photography Consultant Dana Cooper Art Director and Fashion Print Designer Tamara Bradshaw Events and Marketing Coordinator, Corporation

Atelerie_4.75x4.75_BermudianMagAd_PRINT.pdf

of Hamilton

1

5/14/14

4:22 PM

ChĂŠ Barker Terminal Supervisor, Esso Bermuda Rebecca Hanson Development Director at AAC Saatchi & Saatchi and Founder of TABS (The Authentic Bermuda Shorts)

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CM

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CY

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www.thebermudian.com

Summer 2014 | 87

by Laura Bell • illustrations by dana cooper

People & Places Most Effective

cies, cost cutting and the SAGE

the live Parliament stream and

Politician

Commission he’s done a fairly

broadcast the debate over the

p Bob Richards

good job trying to mitigate it all.

human rights amendment online

Holding the position of minister

He’s been the most visible and

via their website and social me-

of finance in boom times is a

willing to take risks.”

dia channels. Using the hashtag #BerRights, the LGBT commu-

tough job, but during a recession? We can’t imagine how

Political Coup

nity and their friends weighed

tough the job must be, but we

p Bermemes #BerRights

in on the debate live from as far

know that a cool head like that of

Bermudians are funny people

away as London while members

the Honourable Everard “Bob”

and Bermemes has made a

of DCI tried to get the stream

Richards certainly helps calm the

name for itself by capitalising

taken down. It was a risky move,

storm. As one judge put it: “If you

on our idiosyncrasies. However,

but as one judge said: “Some-

think about what he has taken on

no one was laughing last year

times you have to bend the rules

with the state of the economy…

when the team of young IT and

to make a change.”

and dealing with the rating agen-

social media stars hacked into Cultural Event of the Year

News Event of the Year p Twins Born Eight Days Apart Bermuda’s own miracle twins made history in November of last year during an extremely rare interval delivery at the IWK Health Centre in Halifax. Almost four-months premature but healthy, Esai and Emyr were born eight days apart—a medical first for the Canadian facility and a relief for parents Edonna and Ryan Bean. This remarkable story was picked up and reported by news outlets around the world (including the CBC and the Huffington Post) and now the miracle Bean twins are Bermuda’s youngest celebrities!

p Cup Match Nothing brings the community together while simultaneously dividing it down the East/West line better than our favourite holiday, Cup Match. Even our judges argued which end hosted the game better, but all agreed that it is the best cultural event in Bermuda year after year.

88 | The Bermudian

www.thebermudian.com

Aw

xcellence E f o d ar

Shadow Minister in the Limelight p David Burt Right now everything is about the economy, and thus Shadow Minister of Finance David Burt is forced to take one of the most difficult and leading positions for his party. Using technology to engage younger people—he tweeted while simultaneously speaking in the House as he gave the PLP’s official reply to the 2014 budget in February—has helped make Burt, an IT profes-

photo: scott tucker

sional, more accessible and put him in the limelight more often than many of his colleagues.

Bermuda Booster p Bermuda’s “Happy” Video

Thespian p Rebecca Faulkenberry Her stint as Mary Jane Watson on the Broadway mega musical

Spider-Man: Turn off the Dark may be over since the New York City show closed in January, but we know there are even bigger parts in store for talented Bermudian thespian Rebecca

Louise Jackson

Gorgeous scenes of the island

Respected member of Parliament and tireless champion of the

Bermudians—combined with

rights of the elderly and disadvantaged; teacher; founder of the

Pharrell Williams’s infectious

Jackson School of Performing Arts and the National Dance

mega hit “Happy”, of course—

Theatre of Bermuda; Bank of Bermuda board member; chairman

was the ultimate combination

of the Bermuda National Gallery; mother to Susan and Debo-

for an incredible video produced

rah—the list of hats that Louise Jackson wore over her 83 years

by INTO Bermuda. With over

is long and impressive.

235,000 views on YouTube at

Only days after being named Officer of the Order of the

press time, the video went viral

British Empire by the Queen in the New Year Honours, Jackson

almost immediately and quickly

passed away unexpectedly on January 2—and the outpouring

put Bermuda in the limelight—

of love for the former politician was overwhelming. So much so

even getting a cameo on Oprah!

that the Gombeys, whom she assisted by making their dance a

“It was a Bermuda booster both

legitimate art form in her school, formed a guard of honour at the

internationally and in Bermuda

entrance of the Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity as her casket

as everyone was really proud of

was brought to the hearse at the end of her funeral. As she was

it,” said one judge.

such a pillar of excellence, our judges felt it was fitting that she

• E-mail: intobermuda@gmail.com

p Tokio Millennium Re

+ Honourable Mention

Reinsurance company Tokio

p Tucker Murphy

Millennium Re is proving to be

Braving the cold temperatures to

a good corporate citizen year

and many beautiful, happy

be honoured with our Award of Excellence this year.

Faulkenberry. Cutting her acting teeth on the City Hall stage at the tender age of seven, the actress spent her formative years in numerous local productions before heading to London’s West End and finally making her Broadway debut in 2011 as Sherrie in Rock of Ages. Locals were thrilled to hear her sing on the City Hall steps during the Earth Hour celebration on March 29th. What is next for Faulkenberry? We can’t wait to find out either!

Good Corporate Citizen

Political Goof

we imagine cell phones may be

show off his knees in traditional

after year through their commit-

p Nandi-gate

banned from politician’s offices

Bermuda shorts made Tucker

ment to supporting youth and

In this age of technology what

from now on.

Murphy an instant celebrity dur-

family services agencies—such

ing the opening ceremonies at

as The Family Centre, The

Pit Bull Politician

the Winter Olympics in Russia

Reading Clinic, Windreach

row. Opposition leader Marc

p David Burt

earlier this year. News outlets

Bermuda, Knowledge Quest

Bean learned this lesson the

In this still-struggling economy it

from around the world weighed

and more—as well as supporting

hard way when it was revealed

is the job of the shadow minister

in on the fashion decision with

youth sports through their spon-

that what he thought was a

of finance to keep the govern-

(mostly) positive comments.

sorship of the popular Tokio

private conversation with Nandi

ment’s feet to the fire when it

(Davis) Outerbridge had been

comes to the country’s financial

New Bermujan Verd

the Sprint Triathlon. We also

recorded via her cell phone and

decisions. Our judges felt that

(or Phrase)

love their continued support of

shared with Premier Craig Can-

David Burt was relentless in his

p Wha’ Ya Dumb?

Bermuda’s talented triathlete

nonier. The allegedly damning

quest to keep the government

You don’t get this category?

Tyler Butterfield.

recording has not been publicly

accountable, while calling for

Wha’ ya dumb?

released, so we may never know

both parties to work together for

• Chesney House, 96 Pitt’s Bay Road, Pembroke, 296-6700

the truth behind this goof but

the best for Bermuda.

you say today may certainly come back to haunt you tomor-

www.thebermudian.com

Youth Mountain Bike Series and

Summer 2014 | 89

People & Places Point Special Development Or-

signed with Huddersfield Town. At

der and the recent governance

only 24 years old, this success-

issues at the Corporation of

ful goal scorer will certainly have

Hamilton, Brock was relentless

many more awards in the future.

in her pursuit of the truth.

photo: oliver tucker

Spectator

Sports Coach/ Instructor p Skipper Ingham Arguably one of Bermuda’s best known martial arts instructors, Frederick “Skipper” Ingham opened the island’s first martial arts

Unsung Hero

Sports Event

p Louise Jackson

p World Rugby Classic

The New Year started off with

Crazy costumes, rowdy rugby

the sad news of the passing of

players and corporate hospi-

former politician and unparal-

tality tents—what’s not to love

leled champion of seniors, Louise

about the annual World Rugby

Jackson. Throughout her political

Classic? Thousands of local and

career she spoke regularly—and

international fans flock to the

eloquently—about the rights of the

National Sports Centre night

elderly and disadvantaged, while

after night to watch some great

she worked tirelessly behind the

rugby, eat delicious catered

scenes to support those who

food and drink their favourite

were often forgotten or disre-

cocktails—all while cheering on

garded in the community. May

their teams.

her legacy continue to inspire.

• Tel: 295-6574, www.worldrugby.bm

Historic Site

school in the 1970s and has taught hundreds of students ever

p Town of St. George

since through his Bermuda Karate Institute. At over 80 years old, the veteran martial artist and instructor shows little sign of slowing

Almost everything about the

down as he continues to win tournaments beating men half his age.

beautiful old town of St. George’s is historical—from St. Peter’s, the oldest surviving Anglican church

Ecological Blunder

to the problem and, with the cost

in the western hemisphere, to the

p Illegal Dumping

of trucking prohibitive for lower-

fascinating Unfinished Church, the

Bermuda is a beautiful island

income families, we suspect the

old State House, dated 1620, and

paradise but unfortunately due

dumping will only get worse.

the Featherbed Alley Printshop

to the inconsiderate acts of a few

museum, just to name a few.

Visual Artist

Community Activist

Designated a UNESCO World

p Lexy Correia

should be. Illegal dumping con-

p Arlene Brock

Heritage Site in 2000, St. George’s

Bermudian artist and owner of

tinues to be a problem island-

As the first official public watch-

is always worth another visit.

the DNA Creative Shoppe—fit-

wide with mounds of trash bags,

dog—and certainly a pit bull of a

broken televisions, mildewed

watchdog—Arlene Brock, who

mattresses and the like dumped

retired earlier this year, served

our island is not as pristine as it

tingly an art supply store—Lexy Athlete

Correia was honoured this year

p Nahki Wells

by having a portrait she painted of burns victim De’jon Simons

as a tenacious ombudsman for

alongside the road from end to

Bermuda during her tenure.

name is on the lips of six-year-

selected by the prestigious

end. The government’s cancel-

Leading investigations into con-

olds to 60-year-olds.” Whether

Royal Society of Portrait Paint-

lation of the free household

troversial subjects, including ra-

you know him personally or not,

ers for exhibit in London. We

bulky-waste collection service

cial disparity at King Edward VII

all Bermudians are proud of the

only hope this honour doesn’t

earlier this year has only added

Memorial Hospital, the Tucker’s

talented local striker who recently

pale in comparison!

people's choice award

on railway trails, in the ocean and

As one judge stated: “Nahki’s

The People Have Spoken!

News Event of the Decade

Athlete

Historical Site

Attraction for Visitors

Horseshoe St. Hurricane Jessica Bay Lewis George’s Fabian

90 | The Bermudian

www.thebermudian.com

People & Places Place to Enjoy Nature

when you need the most tena-

p Cooper’s Island

cious lawyer to argue your case.

Nature Reserve

• Vallis Building, Second Floor, 58 Par-LaVille Road, Hamilton, 295-7957

With some of the most pristine beaches in Bermuda (“They have no footprints!” said one judge) and

Children’s Activity

a total of 77 acres to lose yourself

p Gold Point Archery

in, Cooper’s Island Nature Reserve

Are the kids driving you crazy

in St. David’s is the absolute best

hitting and shooting at each

place to enjoy nature. You are

other all weekend? Why not give

permitted to walk, swim, picnic,

them something to shoot at— Astwood Park

bird-watch and snorkel throughout

Gold Point Archery! Owned and

the park—you just aren’t permitted

operated by Ross Roberts, the

to drive!

photo: scott tucker

range at Southside is open on Picnic Spot

Saturdays and Sundays 11am–

p Astwood Park

5pm or by appointment during

Family Outing

Holding the position for the last

With incredible cliff-top views

the week, and beginner classes

p Bermuda Fun Golf

20 years—he was only sup-

of the ocean, soaring longtails

are held through the Govern-

While in Dockyard, the whole

posed to be the town crier for a

to watch, generous open space

ment Community Education Pro-

family can enjoy putting a few

day in 1994 when they needed

to run and play in, shady trees to

gramme. Just be sure to leave

holes at the brand-new minigolf

someone to announce the ar-

relax under and picnic tables to

the bow and arrows behind.

range at Bermuda Fun Golf. Lo-

rival of the Queen and the Duke

set up your favourite spread on,

• Kilgore Field, 65 South Side Road, St. David’s, 532-7769 or gparchery@yahoo.com

cated at the entrance to Snorkel

of Edinburgh—Christopher can

Park, the 18-hole course

often be found wandering the

features miniature versions of

streets of Hamilton giving tours

some of the best golf holes in

to tourists and generally enter-

Bermuda, the US and Scotland,

taining everyone he meets.

Astwood Park is our judges’ best local spot for picnicking during the warmer summer months. Just bring the wine and cheese—or

Children’s Playground p Dockyard

mini sandwiches and juice boxes,

If archery isn’t your thing, head to

with generous summer hours

depending on your company!

the other end of the island for a

from 10am to 10pm. We chal-

Vocal Artist

full day of play in Dockyard! Just

lenge you not to have a good

p D.I.A. (Devil’s Isle Audio)

Tenacious Lawyer

outside Snorkel Park is a fun, tra-

time—and to get a hole-in-one!

Formed in 2010, D.I.A. have

p Marc Daniels

ditional playground with soft, clean

already opened for Toni Brax-

Defense lawyers often get a bad

sand and a water feature the kids

• Royal Naval Dockyard, 400-7888 or office@fungolf.bm, www.fungolf.bm

rap, but Marc Daniels of Charter

just can’t resist getting soaked in.

Chambers Bermuda is known

Inside the National Museum of

Bermuda Character

to be one of the best. Accord-

Bermuda, check out the brand-

p Ed Christopher

ing to our judges, whether you

new, unique playground featuring

Hamilton’s hilarious town crier

at Chewstick’s open-mic jam

are a petty criminal or naughty

a wooden lighthouse/slide and a

Ed Christopher is one of the

sessions. The talented band in-

politician (wrongly accused, of

huge moray eel to climb through

funniest and most entertain-

cludes drummer Scarlet Thom-

course), Daniels is the man to call

and discover. Kids are free!

ing people you will ever meet.

as, guitarist Kofi Desu, percus-

ton, toured with Chewstick in NYC and Toronto and hosted numerous freestyle nights, and they regularly back local talent

sionist Aden Peets and music director/bass player Derek G. Charity Event/

Simmons. Their original music

Fund-raiser

includes hip-hop, reggae soul

p St. Baldrick’s

and even their newly developed

If bald is beautiful than going bald

Bermudian genre, gombass. We

while raising thousands of dollars

can’t wait to hear what they are

to fund research for childhood

playing this summer!

cancer makes the annual St.

• Tel: 236-2628 or 516-1240, or e-mail D.I.A.bermuda@gmail.com

Baldrick’s Fund-raiser the ultimate beauty queen! According to the St. photo: scott tucker

Baldrick’s Foundation website, this year saw a total of 103 shavees raise over $300,000, and total funds since the inception in 2002 have now reached $4,482,248!

92 | The Bermudian

Place for Falling in Love p On a Boat Picture this: The sun slowly starts to set and the golden light reflects off the glistening www.thebermudian.com

water as the girl (or guy) of your dreams gracefully swims up to your boat rafted up in Paradise Lake just to say hello. “That’s where all my friends’ marriages began!” laughed one judge.

Place to Dump a Lover p Ice Queen It is 3am, you’ve been dancing together all night and decide to take a quick detour to Ice Queen for a bite to eat before heading, um, home. She orders a veggie burger with tomatoes and lettuce and you a greasy, meaty hamburger—and suddenly you realise that this just isn’t going to work out. Drive away, friend.

Just drive away.

• Rural Hill Plaza, Paget, 236-3136

Place for a Discreet Rendezvous p Hog Bay Park Located way up in Somerset, Hog Bay Park is pretty far off the beaten path and the perfect spot to sneak away with someone special. The hiking paths eventually lead to a secluded little beach and gorgeous, sweeping views of the south shore. A word of caution for those on a romantic rendezvous, however: stay on the paths as poison ivy is quite common in the park!

Beautiful Garden p Botanical Gardens As more and more of us are living in smaller spaces (read: condos) and lead more hectic lives, tending to our own gardens has become a thing of the past. When you feel the need to literally stop and smell the roses, our judges recommend a visit to the Botanical Gardens.

For those interested in learning more about Bermuda’s unique flora, the 35-acre landscaped park offers a free walking tour that’s well worth the time.

• 169 South Road, Paget, 236-4201

www.thebermudian.com

Summer 2014 | 93

People & Places Journalist

Reserve and even cliff diving at

regular column 6.0 Minutes in

p Sam Strangeways

Blue Hole National Park—owner

the Bermuda Sun.

“The best journalist on the

Ashley Harris promises visitors

island by a country mile,” said

more than the average tour.

Radio Station

one of our judges of the Royal

• 20 Patience Lane, Hog Bay, Sandys, 704-0999 or bermyreefexplorer@gmail. com, www.bermudahiddengems.com

p Vibe 103

Gazette journalist Sam Strangeways. “She is professional, her standards are incredible and she is immensely experienced.”

We couldn’t agree more!

Place to Propose p Gibbs Hill Lighthouse Hoping she’s not too out of breath to say yes, the hike up to the top of Gibbs Hill Lighthouse is well worth it if you are searching for the perfect spot to propose. The views are spectacular and the romantic Dining Room restaurant downstairs is ideal for a celebratory glass of champagne once you return to earth!

• 68 St. Anne’s Road, Southampton, 238-8069

People-Watching Perch p KFC Window Seats Let’s face it, Bermudians are pokey people—and they love chicken! Tucking into a twopiece meal and watching the Hamilton crowd walk by in the window seats at KFC is the perfect combo lunch special.

• 21 Queen Street, Hamilton, 295-5564

Columnist p Christopher Famous

It can be a tough job to get the

Moore’s jungle, swinging on the vines at Southlands, snorkeling at Cooper’s Island Nature

Place to Play a

tiple genres well into the night,

Round of Golf

listeners are guaranteed to hear

p Port Royal Golf Course

their favourite jams all day long while tuned into Vibe 103. There is only one problem, however: tuning into the energy station on Throwback Thursday mornings has been known to make many a commuter late for work!

• Tel: 232-0699 or e-mail info@vibe103.com

Burgess

p Hidden Gems Ecotours

Swimming in the caves in Tom

the hottest music spanning mul-

tion as they can about their

to help educate their readers.

they’ll be sure to remember!

of Bermuda’s top DJs spinning

p Keevel “The Captain”

for Visitors

take the adventurous on a trip

drive with DJ Smokey and a host

ity to gather as much informa-

facts in a comprehensible way

but Hidden Gems Ecotours can

Berri to the afternoon energy

Radio Personality

Attraction

to standard visitor attractions,

rush with DJ Chubb and Sherri

Columnists have a responsibil-

subject and then present the

Any tourist can find their way

From the entertaining morning

balance just right, so the best columnists—like Christopher Famous—develop a loyal following (and sometimes win awards!).

Whether he is taking on the government’s lack of transparency or waxing lyrical about the Bermuda of yesteryear, Famous speaks to all Bermudians in his

With 6,842 manicured yards, 18 championship holes, sweeping ocean views and the home of the PGA Grand Slam, the Port Royal Golf Course is the gold standard of greens in Bermuda.

Playing on the same course as greats like Angel Cabrera, Lucas Glover, Ernie Els and last year’s winner Adam Scott is a dream come true for local golfers and visitors alike—but

A veteran of the local airwaves,

beating their scores will prob-

Keevil “The Captain” Burgess

ably remain a dream!

has been entertaining Bermudians on his radio show for over

• 5 Port Royal Golf Course, Southampton, 234-0974, www.portroyalgolf.bm

30 years, winning several Best of Bermuda Awards in the pro-

Charity/Community

cess. Tune in to Mix 106 from

Service Organization

6:00am to 11:00am weekdays

p Eliza Dolittle Society’s

to hear The Captain playing

Daily Bread Programme

your favourite tunes, hosting his

This tough economic climate is

upbeat interviews and of course

hardest for those already on the

sending out birthday shout-outs.

margins of society, and it is esti-

•Tel: 292-0050 or e-mail info@vsb.bm

mated as many as 3–6 percent of locals suffer from hunger to some extent. This sobering statistic— and the knowledge that many

photo: sacha blackburne

local establishments like hotels, Wedding Reception Location

restaurants, bakeries and grocery

p Rosewood Tucker’s Point

stores discard consumable food—

Whatever your personal style—from a casual wedding

encouraged the Eliza Dolittle

on the beach followed by a barbeque, to an exquisite

Society to create the Daily Bread

formal reception with 400 guests in the Camden

Programme. The programme

ballroom—Rosewood Tucker’s Point can accommo-

now provides food for over 1,000

date all manner of reception needs. With experienced

meals per week for nine different

wedding planners on hand to cater to your every whim,

feeding centres, allowing the

this luxury resort will guarantee your big day will be your

Society to realise its mission to

best day.

reduce hunger and food wastage

• 60 Tucker’s Point Drive, Hamilton Parish, 298-4000 or tuckerspoint@ rosewoodhotels.com

94 | The Bermudian

in Bermuda.

• Tel: 333-4483 or e-mail info@elizadolittle.bm, www.elizadolittle.bm

www.thebermudian.com

photo: scott tucker

Tim Madeiros of AES

Club/Party DJ

headlines or breaking news text

plate of bacon and in his anger

p D’General

alerts, you’ll always be the first to

accidentally broke the door after

With 15 years’ experience

know thanks to the hardworking,

trying to open it with his foot.

behind him, Jason D’General

always awake, team at Bernews.

According to the Royal Gazette,

Sukdeo is well known as one of

• E-mail info@bernews.com, www. bernews.com

he protested to the magis-

Bermuda’s best DJs for all man-

trate: “I would never do that on

ner of events—from weddings

purpose. We are cousins. We

to christenings, corporate func-

pinged marbles together.” The

tions to nightclubs. Specialising

trial is set for November 19th.

in soca music, D’General also Booster for the

has a weekly radio show, Soca

Environment

Sweetness, on Vibe 103 (Mon-

p Alternative Energy Systems

day nights, 8:00–10:00pm)

De’jon Simons

(Bermuda) Ltd. (AES)

that’s not to be missed!

CEO & Founder

Leading the way in solar energy

• Tel: 300-1049 or e-mail info@d-general. com, www.d-general.com

systems in Bermuda, Alternative Energy Systems is helping Bermuda companies clean up their energy acts by supplying and

Best Source of Local News & Information

judges

Bermemes Jeremy Deacon Wildcard

Director of Public Relations,

p Worst Excuse in

Deep Blue Communications

installing the highest efficiency

p Bernews

Magistrate’s Court

solar products available. AES

This 24/7 news source is

A Paget man accused of caus-

is responsible for some of the

constantly updating the island

ing over $600 damage to the

largest energy-users—like Gor-

with the latest breaking news

front door of the Paraquet Res-

Dianne Brewer

ham’s, Lindo’s and Gosling’s—

and lifestyle and entertainment

taurant pleaded not guilty to wil-

Strategic Marketing & Business

covering their roofs with solar

stories, making Bernews a win-

ful damage in magistrate’s court

Development Consultant

panels and reducing their overall

ner in this category for the fourth

earlier this year claiming the

energy use while hopefully

year in a row. Whether you follow

incident was just an accident.

inspiring other big businesses to

Bernews on Facebook or Twit-

The man stated he was irate

follow suit (hint, hint!).

ter, or receive their daily e-mail

after being charged $3.25 for a

Nicola Muirhead Photojournalist, Bermuda Sun

Clifton Webb Customer Insights & Market Research Manager, HSBC Bank Bermuda Limited

2014!

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96 | The Bermudian

www.thebermudian.com

City Limits

Business News Around Town

From left: Sharon Beesley, Stephanie Paiva Sanderson, Kiera Petty, Marco Montarsolo (seated), Chris Buchan, Brenda Lehmann, Domonique Rivas, Alan Doughty and Saul Froomkin

The Rise of ISIS Law

W

hen Marco Montarsolo and Sharon Beesley decided to establish ISIS Law in 2008, in the middle of the global economic crisis, it was a discouraging time. Yet five-anda-half years later, ISIS Law is a thriving boutique law firm boasting nine lawyers, seven support staff and a reputation as a mould-breaking and dynamic firm. In August 2013, ISIS Law grew out of their modest office in the old Crow Lane Bakery building and moved into Andrew’s Place on Church Street. Stepping into their bright and airy penthouse overlooking Hamilton Harbour, one can immediately appreciate this is a firm fast becoming a major player in the Bermuda legal-services landscape.

ISIS Law specialises in corporate and commercial law, investment funds, banking, finance, insurance and litigation, and in a few short years has made great strides in expanding its legal capabilities. The firm has recently worked with some of Bermuda’s most sophisticated businesses on market-leading transactions and has seen new overseas investors injecting capital into commercial enterprises in Bermuda.

Significant recent transactions include the acquisition of Butterfield Fulcrum Group by Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group and its subsequent acquisition of the Meridian Group; the acquisition by Clarien Group of a controlling stake in Capital G Group; and the acquisition of Alea www.thebermudian.com

Group Holdings (Bermuda) Ltd. and American Safety Reinsurance Ltd. by subsidiaries of Catalina Holdings (Bermuda) Ltd. ISIS Law is also supportive of several small- to mid-size local businesses. Yo Cherry, a popular new frozen yogurt retail enterprise on Bermudiana Road, is just one example of the successful smaller companies ISIS Law has worked with.

ISIS Law’s burgeoning reputation is also attracting a number of top lawyers to the firm, including the well-known litigator Saul Froomkin, OBE, QC, who has been with the firm since 2012 and is a director and the head of the firm’s litigation department. In turn, ISIS Law’s strategy to attract key talent has fuelled its rapid growth.

Looking back on the firm’s progress over the last few years, cofounder and director, Beesley, says, “Perhaps the most remarkable part of ISIS Law’s success is that we have achieved this at a time when most firms have been cutting back.” Beesley attributes the firm’s success to two main factors: ISIS Law’s unique “boutique” approach and its special relationship with Bermuda.

The term “boutique” refers to a culture in which client satisfaction is the ultimate goal. By virtue of the nimbleness resulting from the firm’s size and structure, the expertise at ISIS Law can be tailored to the client’s individual needs and the lawyers can be very personal, flexible Summer 2014 | 97

and innovative in their approach. “We work hard to understand what clients are looking for when they seek our services and encourage our lawyers to be approachable yet knowledgeable and responsive to clients’ needs,” Beesley says. Given the economic crisis, she adds, “We also are dedicated to building long-term, trusted relationships with clients to help them structure their businesses to optimise results, remain commercially aware and be able to take advantage of opportunities for growth as they arise.” ISIS Law staff are keen to add that they also see “boutique” as referring to a collaborative, non-stuffy, family-oriented working environment. “We enjoy what we do,” says Montarsolo, cofounder and managing director.

The ISIS Law style has won much admiration and praise from the firm’s clients. Tim Calveley, deputy CEO of Mitsubishi UFJ Fund Services, speaks highly of the firm’s handling of Mitsubishi’s important milestones: “We have trusted ISIS Law to handle our legal matters since its inception. Their lawyers are down-to-earth, hard-working and responsive; they understand how to work with their clients to achieve ultimate goals.” Mitchell

Hedstrom, a founding member of the Clarien Group, similarly recognises the strengths of the ISIS Law team. Of the recent acquisition of a controlling stake in Capital G Bank and its subsidiaries by the Clarien Group, he says, “[It] could not have been accomplished without the dedication of the team at ISIS Law who stuck by our vision and did everything in their power to see the deal come to fruition.”

As a Bermuda resident for over 21 years, Beesley recognises the importance of business for the future of Bermuda’s economy. She is

also highly appreciative of the role Bermuda’s unique legal and financial environment plays in the creation and growth of new business.

“ISIS Law understands the importance of encouraging investment into Bermuda’s economy and we are here to facilitate such transactions to the fullest extent. We have been extremely pleased with the increase in business opportunities for Bermuda, both domestically and internationally, in the recent months and are encouraged by this trend,” she says, adding: “We are also very appreciative of the efforts of the Bermuda Monetary Authority which is always willing to work with quality investors and business opportunities for Bermuda, yet at the same time works hard to ensure that we maintain a reputation as a clean, sound and innovative jurisdiction.”

It is this special relationship between Bermuda and business that Beesley and Montarsolo credit with fostering unique businesses such as ISIS Law, which can give back to Bermuda’s economy in many different ways. For as well as profiting Bermuda’s business community, they believe it is essential that ISIS Law plays a socially responsible role in Bermuda, too.

ISIS Law is committed to investing in Ber-

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muda’s youth by giving opportunities to, and training, young Bermudians. As Montarsolo explains, “The future growth and stability of Bermuda will be greatly assisted if the younger generations of Bermuda are well-educated and skilled.” To this end, and despite only comprising six lawyers in 2011, ISIS Law engaged two Bermudian pupils, one of whom was called to the Bar in February and the other is expected to be called in May. Beesley knows well the benefits of nurturing Bermudian talent and attracting skilled non-Bermudian lawyers. “We are proud to have so many Bermudians as members of our team and also appreciate and need the wealth of knowledge our non-Bermudian members bring to the table.” Ultimately, Beesley says, “ISIS Law is stronger for this union, and both our lawyers and our clients benefit at the end of the day.

ISIS Law is a true meritocracy.”

ISIS Law is also committed to the wider community through partnering and supporting local not-for-profits. Its team has been involved with such organisations as Caron Bermuda, Summerhaven, The Women’s Resource Centre and the Bermuda Equestrian Federation. In addition, ISIS Law partners

with KatKids, a volunteer fund-raising organisation dedicated to supporting projects which help children in need of food, shelter, health care or education. The founder of Katkids says: “We’re so grateful for the support that the ISIS Law Group has given over the years.

They have been extremely generous and the support, passion and involvement of their staff have made a significant positive impact on our fund-raising achievements to date. This type of partnership between nonprofit and business is essential for small charities like us.”

When asked what he sees as the defining elements of ISIS Law, Montarsolo concludes, “We are a very family-oriented firm and have been fortunate to bring such an interesting team together and look forward to growing our practice and increasing our client base.

We believe we have broken the mould of the traditional law firm and want to thank our clients who have been with us through the more difficult times. As we look to the future we know we will be judged by our actions and our work ethic and we welcome the opportunity to show what we are made of. ISIS Law is a firm that is looking forward to a positive future, for itself and for Bermuda.”

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Summer 2014 | 99

Afternoon & Evening

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photography by Monika Davis

BUEI’s Underwater Extravaganza On Saturday, March 22nd, the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute (BUEI) held its first “Underwater Extravaganza.” The event was a fun, sophisticated evening that raised funds for BUEI’s education programmes. The night kicked off with cocktails in the upper lobby and entertainment by the In Motion dancers. A delicious sit-down dinner was held in the Harbourfront Restaurant, followed by music by The Big Chill and dancing on a bioluminescent dance floor! The theme for the evening: “Underwater Chic…the Hue is Blue.”

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www.thebermudian.com

Afternoon & Evening

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photography by Jill Rubinchak

Paula Clarke & Sylvie Rowlinson

Laura Gorham, Graham Hueber & Jane Taylor

Gill & Pete Ramsdale, Elspeth Dunlop

Celebrating the Night The Family Centre’s Celebrate the Night event at Fourways Inn provided a fun-filled evening of entertainment with something for everyone—from dancing on the patio with DJ King Arthur to comedy with Gina Davis and Toby Butterfield’s Improv “Hilarity for Charity” troupe, magicians and Gavin Smith in the Peg Leg Lounge. Despite rain and wind, 400 people came out to support the charity.

Sophie Campeau, Christina Frederick, Jeannine Menzies, Monika Burrill, Maria Gitken

Davika Hill, Josué Mecene, Alisha Mecene, Darryl-Craig Van Heerden & Sarah Dunstan

Charlie Thresh, John Wight & Walt Higgins

Frank & Carolyn Amaral

Kirk & Judy Kitson, Wenda & Rick Krupp

Kennita Perry & Leon Bascome

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Kirstin Cann & Yoga Horseman

Jackie Napier & Corrine Fiocca

Danielle & Wesly Guiteau

Davika Hill & Sandi Marshall

www.thebermudian.com

DISCOVER THE UNIVERSAL FRAGRANCE

F R E SH,

C R I S P,

C I T RUS

BE AU T Y

Afternoon & Evening

Jennie Lee O’Donnell & Karen Clare

Charlene Joell, Olivia & Sarah Mardon

Catherine Mello, Gavin Collery, Les Waters, Chris Caponigro & Kurt Dickmann

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photography by Jill Rubinchak

Claire Etchingham & Emily Deane

Jacquellynn McRonald & Aaron Bassett

Len & Maria Aitken

Ryan Jones, Harriet Saari, James Britland & Alex Whittaker

Neville Ching & Catherine Silvester

Richard Reno

Soup-a-Bowl The annual Soup-a-Bowl event benefiting The Eliza DoLittle Society was another great success this past February. Last year’s winner Dick Reno from the Mid Ocean Golf Club was there to defend his title, and was again voted (by just a few beans) the 2014 Soup-a-Bowl Champion! All the chefs brought their “A” game, and a delicious time was had by all. The Society raised $35,000 which goes directly to supporting the charity to feed Bermuda’s hungry population.

Andrew McClennia, Tahinde Frederick & Randolph Pedro

Guy Hengesbaugh, Tom Doyle & David Olivera

www.thebermudian.com

photography by Monika Davis

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Afternoon & Evening

Building Design Awards Cocktail Party For 20 years, The Bermudian magazine has recognised the very best in architectural design in Bermuda. Along with our sponsor, Bermuda Gas, we once again awarded prizes in both commercial and residential divisions in our annual Bermuda Building Design Awards. The awards ceremony took place at the Bermuda Gas showroom on March 27th. Prizes were awarded to Waterloo House (BotelhoWood Architects), winner in the commercial design division; Bees Nest (Westport Architecture), winner in the residential design division; Spindrift (CTX), runner-up for residential design; and Rosemont (Benevides & Associates), honourable mention for residential design.

www.thebermudian.com

Summer 2014 | 105

That’s Life! A Letter from London | written by Winifred blackmore

hough I am far from home, I find, if I keep my eyes and ears open, there are glimpses and echoes of Bermuda to be found in the most surprising places.

A couple of months ago, I visited some friends who live in Suffolk. In a little village—hamlet, really—called Walberswick. It’s on the coast…keep driving, and you fall into the North Sea. The place can only be approached by one long, rutted road, flanked by free-range pigs and, after dark, patrolled by muntjac deer, who look like Bambi with an overbite but become extremely aggressive during rutting season (this from my friend, who has been on the receiving end of one of them...he’s a tall man...it was a low blow).

Deer victim and his wife run a pub called The Anchor. It’s the kind of establishment where, in autumn and winter and chilly spring evenings, there’s always a fire blazing in the snug. Where you can find whatever sort of beer you fancy—whether it’s brewed in Alloa or Alaska; where the wine is not out of a box; where the pub grub is not grubby.

We spent a happy weekend with them— walking miles along the vast lonely beaches strewn with pebbles smooth as eggs, avocets and sandpipers mirrored in the marshes behind us.

When it came time to leave, I noticed an old book by the side of my bed. Palgrave’s Golden Treasury, with an introduction by C. Day-Lewis. It was a slim volume, bound in red leather and slightly the worse for wear. I opened it, and it fell, at random, to page 127: “Song of the Emigrants in Bermuda” by A. Marvell.

Now this is remarkable for two reasons.

One, for the sheer serendipity of it. And two, because I had never seen the poem before.

Forty lines of verse that was beautiful and

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surprisingly accurate, given that it was written in 1653. Not for Marvell, a monster living in a tree, like Shakespeare’s Caliban in the “stillvex’d Bermoothes” (admittedly, the Bard was working with some very early information).

No, this was a Bermuda I recognised…

With cedars chosen by His hand From Lebanon He stores the land; And makes the hollow seas that roar Proclaim the ambergris on shore.

Andrew Marvell wrote the poem (also known as “Bermudas”) when he was 32, inspired, allegedly, by the tales of a man called John Oxenbridge, with whom he was staying while tutoring at Eton. Oxenbridge was an outspoken academic (an old boy of Cambridge and Oxford) who managed to get thrown out of every institution that ever employed him, thanks to his habit of speaking his mind. More interestingly than Oxenbridge’s chronic case of foot-in-mouth disease, though, was the fact that, by the time he was in his early 40s, he had visited Bermuda. Twice.

Imagine those journeys. No “frequent sailors” perks in the seventeenth century. It would have taken weeks—if he was lucky. And after the return leg (which must have made the

BA red-eye to Gatwick look like the transporter from Star Trek), he went: “You know what?

That was great! I think I’ll do it again.”

From Oxenbridge, Marvell no doubt learned of the “fowls” the islanders fed on.

He knew of the treacherous “watery maze” of reefs that surrounded our shores.

Finding that poem felt like a sign. Possibly a sign that I had slept through more of my English literature lessons than I’d thought.

But no! I asked my family, and they, too, were unaware of the piece. It wasn’t till I spoke to another friend that I found someone who did know it. “Oh yes, I think we studied it for O levels,” she said, blithely. I felt quite shattered. I wanted it to be my secret.

There have been other signs, too. Not quite as divine as stumbling on a previously undiscovered masterpiece by the man who wrote “To His Coy Mistress”—but signs all the same.

Taking my sister, brother-in-law and two small nephews to the Weald & Downland Open Air Museum in the Sussex countryside near Chichester recently, we came across a house built in…1609. In addition to that fateful date, Pendean farmhouse was significant for the fact that it boasted a central, indoor chimney. Until the mid-1500s, if you wanted a fire in your house, you lit one in the middle of the living-room floor. (Apart from the appeal of being able to get rid of the piles of Sunday papers without trudging to the recycle bin, there’s not much else to recommend this method of central heating.)

And while admiring H&M’s new homeware collection, I noticed that one of their china ranges, decorated with a bold design of old newspaper small ads, featured, front and centre, the words: “Bermuda: Round trip including meals and berth, $50 and up.” I bet John Oxenbridge would have loved it. www.thebermudian.com

illustration by dana cooper

T

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