Hector hears the quote that has kick-started Ewart Brown’s <$>first Throne Speech as apparently been doing the rounds in a selection of self-help leadership books. Former Opposition Leader Grant Gibbons — who some might argue could have done with consulting a few titles on how to stay in the political hotseat — told the House of Assembly that the famous quote about change from King Whitney Jr. had found its way into a book entitled ‘They Made You The Boss — Now What?’

Maybe this must-read tome was a gift from predecessor Alex Scott<$>, who dropped a copy in the Doc’s lap as the votes were being counted at the Devonshire Rec leadership contest?

But Dr. Gibbons, who Googled the quote on the web before quickly informing MPs of his discovery, also said the saying appeared in other guidance books. One, he said, was called ‘Finding Your Voice — Learning To Lead’. Another, much to the amusement of MPs from both sides of the House, was entitled ‘Why Can’t We Get Anything Done Around Here?’Senate business resumed this week. And despite some fresh new faces on the Government side, Hector was pleased to hear that Kim Swan could still be relied upon to talk the hind legs off a debate competition-winning donkey.

He was stopped in full flow at one stage, however, when he stated that the number of poor Bermudians had “sweltered” in recent years. When a couple of Senators interrupted and asked if he meant “soared”, Sen. Swan said he was glad they were listening. Roll on next Wednesday...Hector was taken aback the claims this week by spin-meister extroardinaire Alex Scott that it his lamentable performance in front of king-making PLP delegates was party due to a faulty microphone.

But clearly the electronic malaise is spreading. The microphones weren’t working in the sleepy Senate Chamber either this week so Bermuda’s radio-listening public were denied the joy of hearing a lengthy debate on the Throne Speech. However, Sen. Swan had the interests of the public at heart as he amped up the volume while lamenting the latest collapse of a deal at Club Med resort.

When the ear-bashing became too much Senate President Alf Oughton intervened and pleaded for the sound to be turned down. But Senator Swan said he merely had the people of St. George’s at heart and, because the radio microphones were broken, was trying to make sure they could hear him raise the topic of the East End monolith.

Hmmm, Hector wouldn’t be surprised to learn that missing senators Wayne Caines<$> and Phil Perinchief <$>also had no trouble catching every word even though they were in London.

Hector noted Senator David Burch proudly brandishing a copy of his (obviously) favourite read The Royal Gazette in the chamber. It’s been a secret love but clearly he is feeling more emboldened these days.