Hug an expat day

December 10, 2007

Dear Sir,

For no particular reason other than this is the season of peace and thanksgiving, I'm declaring December 20 "Hug an Expat Day". All of us in Bermuda should be thanking our guest workers, our non-Bermudian spouses, our visitors and our long term residents for:

? Contributing millions each year to Bermuda charities for the betterment of our lives;

? The enormous amount of man hours dedicated to Bermuda charities

? Hiring our sons and daughters, mothers and fathers;

? Supporting countless scholarships making it possible for Bermudian students to attend university

? Supporting our public and private schools with money, with equipment and with bricks and mortar

? Offering countless intern programmers for summer students to explore the different business opportunities here

? Supporting football, tennis, cricket, swimming, cycling, golf, netball, squash, riding... and every other sport on this Island

? Supporting the performing arts both with time and with treasure

? The support of our Aquarium, the Maritime Museum, BIOS, St. George's Foundation, the National Trust, the BUEI, the National Gallery and Masterworks.

? For continuing to work and participate in Bermuda life when your future is uncertain

We thank you for enriching our lives, for marrying us, for living here and for bringing your business, your friends and your family to share with us. We couldn't do it without you,

DEVIL'S HOLE

Smith's parish

Not just wasteful...

December 12, 2007

Dear Sir,

When I came back to Bermuda in 1993, after being away in school in Wales for some three years, I was delighted to find a new recycling and resource management initiative in place, plus the news that solar panels and electric cars had been exempted from Customs duty. These certainly seemed positive moves on the energy front, but since then a depressing lack of progress seems to have been made.

Over the years, conferences at the BioStation on Bermuda and its energy needs have pointed to solar as being an obvious way for us to go, but BELCO has always been stubbornly resistant this idea, though happy to propose a massive wind farm plan which would likely create major damage to our marine environment as well as be unbelievably expensive to construct.

With BELCO's current outrageous plan for an additional and conventional generating plant, using oil, (how backwards can we get!), on the same site (so that it can all get swamped together in a severe storm!), I am left again with the same old questions: Why wasn't legislation ever put in place so that Planning would insist on solar panels for water-heating being installed on every roof (new and old)?

Water heating is one of the main users of electricity, so that alone could have created a huge saving in electricity since 1993. Why didn't BELCO create its own company to do just that? Bermuda could have been a tiny but shining example to the world, instead of lagging woefully behind. Not making use of all that yellow stuff shining down on us every day is not just wasteful but criminally negligent!

Eight or so years ago, when building their house, environmentally-conscious (and money-conscious) friends installed a solar panel on their roof to heat the water. All very simple, money-saving, and still working like a dream, as is the solar panel that David Wingate installed on the main house on Nonsuch Island in 1988, as part of an overall project (including a small wind turbine), to provide energy appropriate to a nature reserve, as well as a practical demonstration of sustainable living for the public.

Now, almost twenty years later, with increased public awareness, and Greenrock energetically working on changing mindsets, maybe it's finally time to get it all together. Let's hope so!

PENNY HILL

Hamilton Parish

P.s. Wales has been in the forefront of renewable and sustainable energy for thirty years or more, and the Centre for Alternative Technology (C.A.T.) is a fascinating and inspiring place to visit. Solar is definitely part of the overall plan in both public buildings and private homes throughout Wales, even though sustained sunshine is not something the country is exactly famous for! So, come on, Bermuda!

Unnecessary bureaucracy

December 8, 2007

Dear Sir,

HM Customs must be having a laugh with the public. Every cell phone/ golf club etc. must be registered etc. prior to leaving & re entry? I just imported a new cell 'phone via the GPO. The Customs form was filled in and I paid $50 odd in duty etc. I did not receive a receipt stating the details of the 'phone ¿ just a regular receipt.

If I bring a new computer in at Bda/LFW International I pay duty and I'm given a receipt. My duty form is retained. It is ludicrous to expect tax payers to register goods after they have paid duty. Not to mention that Government "steals" extra money from tax payers [AT] Bda/LFW International because it is too idle to get a proper software program to properly charge the correct duty.

FORMER AGENT

Smith's parish

The PLP has delivered

December 9, 2007

Dear Sir,

Over the last few weeks my letter entitled "Shut out of Facebook" has somehow made its way around the island on e-mail. So far, I have had a very encouraging and positive response from the Bermuda public, and I thank you for that. Few have challenged my credibility and my capability, but many have showed continued support. A common response was keep writing! I will answer your request by doing so.

In this address my main objective is to educate the public about democracy and party loyalty. I feel that these two topics are most relevant to our society today. We need to understand them and fully appreciate them. Democracy is the Divine, Everlasting, Moral, Open, Cohesive, Right, to Appropriately, Convey, Your Views. It allows each and every one of us to express our interest or discontent on how society is progressing. It gives each and everyone of us a unique and individual voice; a voice that cannot be stolen or voided.

Although this voice cannot be stolen or voided, it can be hidden; something that many of us resort to. We choose not to utilise the power that it holds. As a young person I feel that this is because we lack a cohesive education and appreciation of democracy. We need to embrace it, and take charge of it.

Despite what many believe, democracy is not free. It has a price and a rewarding price at that. "The price of the democratic way of life is a growing appreciation of people's differences, not merely as tolerable, but as the essence of a rich and rewarding human experience." In order to have a successful democracy, we as a society have to appreciate one another's views and ideas. We have to humble ourselves to convey an equal existence amongst the Bermudian people.

It is no doubt that many believe they know which party I support. Well, you are right in your prejudgments. I support the Bermuda Progressive Labour Party. Why, some may ask? The answer lies in the mission statement of the Party.

"We see a New Bermuda, in which the talents of every Bermudian will be mobilised in building a humane society, in which social and economic justice is a reality, not just an ideal. The Bermuda Progressive Labour Party's policies and programmers are meant to rekindle hope, to heal Bermuda's present divisions and to replace apathy and alienation with a spirit of optimism and a feeling of oneness and unity. We continue to put Bermuda first, and to put Bermudians first."

I believe in the mission of the Progressive Labour Party. I believe in their proactive role on Race Relations and the youth of Bermuda. The Progressive Labour Party has showed time and time again that they are for the Bermudian people. They have increased the presence of International Business (complex situation), increased Tourism numbers, embraced cultural awareness with the renaming of public monuments and institutions, and taken a huge interest in the youth of Bermuda.

The Mirrors Programme was a huge success. It was encouraging for me as a teenager to watch the positive transition from old confinement to new and optimistic free expression. Transportation has been steadily improved with the fast ferry system. Seniors have also been given priority with the exemption of land tax, the introduction of the Rockway Center and the Sylvia Richardson Facility.

Yes, I agree that education needs to be fixed as well as a few other issues, but for the most part, the Progressive Labour Party has delivered! They are moving Bermuda forward, and taking every Bermudian with them.

Party loyalty means sticking with the party no matter what, in the lows and the highs, in the good and the bad. Isn't that how we took over Parliament in 1998 and again 2003? I am sure that this same approach will ensure us victory on December 18, 2007. But, it's up to you Bermuda. We have to put aside our personal agendas and our spite.

The Progressive Labour Party candidates have gone to the people, lived with the people, learned from the people, loved the people, and planned with the people. They have started with what they know, and continuously built on what they have. They represent every background and every story. What other party can boast such social and historical diversity. I call on all PLP supporters to trust and believe, as I have. I assure you that the Progressive Labour Party can and will deliver for a third consecutive term.

A CONCERNED TEEN

It's not about skin colour

December 11, 2007

Dear Sir,

'The International Community is watching Bermuda too'. Not just those in Bermuda, but others from outside too. This Government's track record on justice, equal human rights, corruption, arresting our Auditor General, hidden reports and the simple trust that they are working for all the people of Bermuda is hugely questionable.

The slick talking Doctor can apparently fool many wishful thinking Bermudians, but he isn't fooling anyone else. The International Community is hoping that the real people of Bermuda want to change the dreadful track record of hate and division that has been the PLP legacy for the last nine years. They are looking for an acknowledgement that real Bermudians want "simple honesty" and care about all Bermudians and our guest workers.

If you have doubts about the Doctor and his Government, then you should be voting for a change. This election is not about skin colour, it is about our future together. There is a viable alternative that is truly representative of all Bermudians and they deserve a chance. Together we are stronger, divided we are at risk. The future is about all of us. It is about sustainable development and opportunity for our children, both black and white. The choice is yours. Vote accordingly on December 18.

RMB

Devonshire

Keep politicians honest

December 13, 2007

Dear Sir,

It is important to remember in any election that it is healthy for a country to have a swing in parties. Let's look at the United States as an example ... they have had a Republican in the White House for the last eight years. Perhaps it is time for the American people to consider a change? It is only a four-year process before they will again have a chance to consider a new vote. But to elect the same party, just for the sake of electing the same party (over and over), is not healthy for any viable democracy (or in Bermuda's case, not healthy for a democratic Parliamentary).

It makes sense that if one is not happy with the current state of affairs, then consider change. In five years time, if one is not happy with the current state of affairs, they again consider change. This is the fundamental principal which makes a democratic society work. Without being biased toward the UBP or the PLP, voters ... keep your country in check, keep your politicians honest, vote with your heart and may the best party win!

CONCERNED

Southampton

Don't ignore change

December 11, 2007

Dear Sir,

First, let me express my gratitude of this medium for the general public's ability to share their concerns and or opinions, on various subjects. There have been a "slew" of advertisements lately via electronic media by those opposed to Independence. It is in my opinion that their position maybe based on prejudice, bias or ignorance. I endeavour to highlight some pertinent information regarding our "status", the transformation from the once mighty British Empire, and the formation of the Commonwealth realm, consequently, the Independence of a majority of the former Colonies.

The origins of the British Empire date back to 1497 through 1583 considered the first phase, when King Henry VII, commissioned John Cabot to search for Asia via the North Atlantic. He found what we now know as Canada. During this period, the British Isles (Protestant England) were in rivalry with (Catholic) Spain and Portugal, which led to the Crown sanctioning English privateers (pirates) John Hawkins and Sir Francis Drake to engage in piratical attacks on ships returning from the 'New World'. At the same time influential writers such as Richard Hakluyt and John Dee, in particular was the first to use the term 'British Empire'.

In 1578, Queen Elizabeth granted Sir Humphrey Gilbert a patent for discovery and exploration, with the intention of first engaging in piracy in the Caribbean and on return establishes a colony in North America.

We all know or should know the worldwide campaign embarked upon by the British as far afield as Australia, New Zealand, Falkland Islands and many others, imposing their philosophies, killing, destroying and displacing indigenous people. This was the ideology of the British as the foundation of their Empire.

We should all admit that those times have long past, and that one consequence of the "Empire's" involvement in the Second World War in particular was the downfall of the British Empire. The financial burden as well as depletion of resources resulted in assistance from the US and maybe a few others; hence the 'beginning-of-the-end' of the British Empire as colonies sought independence, including Canada, Australia, New Zealand, some Caribbean Islands and India, Pakistan and what is now known as Bangladesh (former East Pakistan), Israel, Palestine and many others.

To date the United Kingdom retains sovereignty over 14 territories outside the British Isles, which to me does not constitute an empire! Most former colonies are members of the Commonwealth of Nations, a non-political, voluntary association of equal members in which the UK has no privileged status. Fifteen members of the Commonwealth continue to share or shared their head-of-state with UK- the Commonwealth Realms.

Many former British colonies share or shared certain characteristics:

? English language as thee main or secondary language

? A democratic parliamentary system of government modelled on the Westminster system

? A legal system based on English law, the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council

? A military, police and civil service based on British models

? The Imperial system of measurement

? Educational Institutions, such as boarding schools and universities modelled on Oxford and Cambridge

? Drive on the left

? Popularity of rugby union / cricket as well as related sports

Several ongoing conflicts and disputes around the world can trace their origin to borders inherited by countries from the British Empire: Guatemala's claim to Belize, the Kashmir conflict, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and in Africa, where political boundaries did not reflect homogenous ethnicities or religions, something (recently) we can relate/identify with locally.

With these points 'objectively' considered, I don't understand what all the anti-Independence fuss is about. Especially with the option of being a Commonwealth member, affording us many of the liberties we enjoy today. We currently run our "own affairs" anyway, so why not go all the way! For those concerned about the legal ramifications, the Privy Council will continue to be the highest court as a Commonwealth member, therefore, "stand at ease".

One can only assume that those whom choose to ignore the "changing times", therefore unwilling to progress like so many other countries, must be of the similar ideology of days past. They shouldn't just embrace certain aspects of progress (to suit their interest), and follow suit of the world's majority, as they do in so many other areas. I'm not sure if it was specifically outlined in the Independence Commission report, whether or not the option of Commonwealth membership was considered (I didn't read it thoroughly), but with that possibly being an option, should allay fears.

Apprehension is fear of the unknown, humans are creatures of habit; therefore it's expected to be a lot of anxiety. Some like to try and draw comparisons with countries to our south as 'scare-tactics', forgetting that we are and always have been in better standing than our neighbours. I can only come to the realisation that it must be a case of the Anglo-Saxons wanting to "control" the lives of the remaining 14 overseas territory citizens.

GLENN O. CHASE

Sandys

Christmas is spoiled

December 11, 2007

Dear Sir,

2007 will forever be remembered as the year that Dr. (Grinch) Brown stole Christmas. Instead of exchanging the usual compliments of the season, Bermudians are discussing government scandals and unethical behaviour. Political banners and signs have taken the place of holiday decorations; the traditional red and green have been replaced with blue and green.

Instead of carolers, we've had political candidates on our doorstep singing the praises of their party. The people involved in the election process have been taken away from their families at a time when it should be all about family. Our children, who should be celebrating the joy of Christmas, have been forced to consider the reality of an independent Bermuda, which would undoubtedly mean they will lose low cost tuition at UK Universities, as well as their ability to travel the world without visas.

As Bermudians, we have always been able to put aside our differences, particularly during the holiday season, but this year we've been polarised and pitted against each other. Our Island has never been more divided. So we can thank "Dr. Grinch" for spoiling the holidays by egoistically having an election one week before Christmas, and perhaps in return the voters of Bermuda will give him the gift that keeps on giving¿ a UBP victory!

BLUE CHRISTMAS

Warwick

Think about our future

This was sent to the Department of Planning and copied to The Royal Gazette:

December 7, 2007

Dear Sir,

After attending the meeting last night for the proposed expansion of Belco I am completely amazed that Mr. Perinchief, the area representative for government, got up and answered the question. "Does Government have an energy plan for the future?" with. "I cannot answer that".

This past decade has to be the most fossil fuel-talked-about decade ever, people around the planet are aware of global warming, pollution, and oil at $100 a barrel and we have a Government that has no plan for the future.

Are we just going to keep burning oil till there is no more no matter the price to our health, or pocket books? Will someone, who we as taxpayers pay, please put on their thinking cap, get over the fact that the landscape is going to change and start investigating solar, wind, water, hydrogen and any other free or lower cost power for us to survive on this tiny village in the middle of the Atlantic in the future and stop thinking about the present.

There are simple things that can be done right now to make a difference. Mandate every new building to have solar panels, make one night a month or week 'star night' and turn off all the power, approve wind turbines for use. Amazingly we might be able to reduce power enough that Belco does not need to do such a huge expansion.

The Government seem to have plenty of time and money to build bigger megaship terminals, useless emission control centres and go to China to attract none existent tourists. What about doing a little homework for the energy future? Don't get me started on transportation.

HUBERT WATLINGTON

Pembroke

Lighting rationale

December 11, 2007

Dear Sir,

Please allow me to interrupt the Election frenzy with some comments on a problem that is becoming more common on our roads. It is particularly irritating now we are driving home in the dark every evening.

There are apparently large numbers of drivers that are under the impression that the lights on the front of their car are there for decoration. They seem to feel they can use these lights in any combination to look cool or sporty or just plain intimidating. Nothing could be further from the truth. I don't want to just complain so here are some constructive suggestions and hopefully some enlightenment!

Most recently built cars have four main sets of lights — these are headlights; parking lights and fog lights (and their associated rear lights) and turn indicator lights. The name of each is a strong clue as to their purpose.

Headlights are to be used when driving at night. They have two main settings and often a neat little adjustment knob on the dashboard. The high beam is for driving at speed when you are alone on the road as they can dazzle oncoming drivers. There are two points here. Firstly, you should not be driving at speed. Secondly, with 40,000+ vehicles on 140 miles of road, you are never alone. So, you probably never need to use your high beams — just stick with the low beams so you don't dazzle other drivers.

That neat little adjustment knob that lets you raise and lower your headlights is there to help you keep the lights pointing down at the road when you have your two 300 pound buddies in the back seat and the muffler is scraping the ground. It is not so you can crank up the lights and illuminate the whole road for half a mile ahead with your low beams — that is just as dazzling as using high beams.

Parking lights are meant to be used to make your car visible when parked without draining the battery. They are also a safety measure when one of the headlights fails. Fog lights are to be used when it is foggy. Since it is never foggy in Bermuda you never need to use these lights. These lights are extremely bright and it is prohibited in many countries to use these lights in clear conditions or on wet roads due to the risk of dazzling oncoming drivers. Leave them off.

There are some particularly dim people who insist on driving in clear conditions with parking lights and fog lights. Why? Trust me you don't look like a NASCAR driver — you look like someone who hasn't read the instruction manual that came with your car. Studies have indicated that far more people in North America use Fog Lights incorrectly in clear conditions than those that use the lights correctly in foggy conditions. Bermudians seem to be picking up this bad habit.

Finally, we come to the old favourite — turn indicators. These lights are to let other drivers know what you are going to do in a few seconds time — to give people some warning that you are going to turn. Clicking the indicator on as you spin the steering wheel and screech around a corner doesn't really serve any useful purpose. We've either figured out what you were going to do and taken evasive action or hit you. The process for making a corner is indicate, then brake, then turn. Let's give this a try and maybe we can save a few trips to the hospital this Christmas.

Turning on the correct lights when you drive at night will make it safer and more pleasant for everyone. However, if your headlights are adjusted like Rodney Dangerfield's eyes, you are still a nuisance to other drivers. This applies to motorcycle drivers too. It's not difficult to tell that your lights are broken or badly adjusted, assuming of course that you have your eyes open when driving (you should — it's the law!). Get them fixed. Thanks for humouring me.

RICHARD WATKINSON

Shame on parent

December 6, 2007

Dear Sir,

To the parent or caregiver who changed their child's diaper in their car parked on Cobb's Hill Road near Harbour Road sometime between December 4 and 5, and then left the soiled diaper on the sidewalk instead of taking it with them to dispose of it properly, shame on you.

R. CHRISTIE

Paget

We've hit a new low

December 10, 2007

Dear Sir,

Today, I believe Bermuda has hit a new low in politics. The YouTube accusation about Opposition Leader Michael Dunkley is preposterous — and one of the most transparently poisonous, twisted pieces of politicking we have ever witnessed in our island. First, let me declare my interest: Michael is a lifelong friend. We went to school together, played sports together, and have travelled on holiday with our families. I watched the teenaged Michael cope with the loss of his father. I knew Michael when he used to go to work at 4 a.m. and 5 a.m. at the family dairy, playing his part in keeping the milk supplies available in Bermuda.

Although biased, I believe I am also well placed to have seen Michael in action in many different situations over the years. From that perspective, I wanted to let my fellow Bermudians know that he is the most ethical, honest, principled and hardworking person that I have ever known. He exhibits every gracious and caring Bermudian quality that we cherish as a people. Motivated by the opportunity for good and not by power or profile, he is a quiet family man who could have easily chosen not to serve his country.

You may choose to disagree with his politics — that is everyone's right in a true democracy. But I want to assure you, you never have to question his ethics, or his honesty. Ask him any questions you want — and you will get a direct, honest and straightforward answer. To try to taint him with allegations of drug dealing is such sleazy — some might even say desperate — behaviour that it is beyond belief. When Bermudians go to the polls, Mr. Editor, I want them to know that Michael Dunkley has always believed that he could make a positive difference. He chose to do so understanding that as a minority white man in a majority black community, it would be a struggle. It took courage, because he knew that personal attacks were the weapon of choice of our current leadership.

If he leads the next government, I have no doubt that we will see a return to the values most Bermudians believe should be embraced and modelled by our leaders: honour, honesty, transparency, and service to the people.

BARRY BREWER

Warwick

Let's not be left behind

December 12, 2007

Dear Sir,

I was surprised by the letter in today's Royal Gazette by Julian Hall on the subject of double jeopardy. Is he not aware that the United Kingdom repealed this act some years ago, thus making it acceptable for all her overseas territories to follow suit? We should have done so at the time, but as I recall Dame Lois opposed it.

It is quite obvious that with modern technology, DNA and so many other improvements in criminal investigation, that our justice system should be brought up to date. We cannot be left behind in this, and no doubt the shocking case of the Middleton murder would have been brought to justice now if we had repealed the double jeopardy rule.

Let us hope and pray for a change in Government so that this antiquated law can be repealed, our justice system brought up to date, and the country brought back to responsible leadership.

E. RABEN

Paget

Don't take the credit

December 3, 2007

Dear Sir,

I think Dr. Brown has some nerve to try to take credit for the Rockaway apartments that have just opened. 'Rockaway' is part of the Housing Trust — nothing to do with this government. It was started by the late Mr. R. Fergerson and Mr. Purvis a group of old Bermudians with donated money from the public charities and some from Bank of Bermuda. The government had nothing to do with it except donating the land.

NOTHING NEW THERE

Devonshire

Wisdom from TR

December 13, 2007

Dear Sir,

Perhaps the following words of wisdom will be of interest to your readers. On July 4, 1886, Theodore Roosevelt spoke in Dickinson, Dakota, USA. "But as you already know your rights and privileges so well, I am going to ask you to excuse me if I say a few words about your duties. Much has been given to us. And we must take heed to use aright the gifts entrusted to our care. It is not what we have that will make us a great nation; it is the way we use it."

I do not for a moment undervalue our material prosperity... but we must keep steadfastly in mind no people ever yet benefitted by riches if their prosperity corrupted their virtue!

ANNABELLA GAYE FRASER

Pembroke

Thank you Mr. Editor

December 1, 2007

Dear Sir,

I am not Dr. Ewart Brown's defender, but some of the garbage that circulates, including this latest insult on the Internet, is going too far, and frankly, it will backfire.

I am certain that the perpetrators are well intended in the sense that they think it will help the UBP. In fact, as was the case with the Delaey Robinson's incident nine years ago, it will hurt the UBP. For years I have criticised the PLP, especially on immigration issues, considering their overwhelming connection with St. Kitts and Nevis, and perhaps, having made my point, I should have broadened on my delivery.

Your readers and LaVerne Furbert would certainly be surprised (because you and your paper get so much stick, if you criticise the PLP) to know that you have refused over the past ten years to publish many of my letters that were critical or over critical of the PLP, or even nomothetic — beating the proverbial dead horse.

For a few years I continued to write to you, and call you, and harass you, for not printing my letters. Your words to me were that you "wanted to give the PLP a chance". I have to be open minded enough myself to applaud your integrity and principles. I thought my comments were fair and I always signed my name, but you are the Editor, not I.

You might not be aware that I even approached the manager of The Royal Gazette to pay to print my views on an advertising page. He declined and I did not push the issue further. I would appreciate it if you would print this letter, in its entirety — many of the readers of the Letters-to-the-Editor page are even surprised that you re not obliged to print all letters.

SANDERS FRITH-BROWN

Warwick

I have my life back

December 3, 2007

Dear Sir,

Thank you for allowing me the space to publicly, thank Focus Cons. and Staff, Camp Spirit, and Staff, Ms Lowe of B.A.R.C. for helping me to focus my life, from a life of drugs, alcohol and prostitutes. It was a life of hell.

Firstly I had to make the first step. Recognise that this way of life would lead to death (1) spiritually, (2) physically.

Secondly ask for help. Once I got the help, accepted it, I was given the tools to meet life on life's terms (everyday). I'm on my way. Let me say thank God, Thank God. because without Him I couldn't have done it alone. Now Sir, I want to draw to the public's attention of the (MIRRORS) Programme.

It has saved many young folks lives. The chance is afforded to them to better their lives. I watched the Government TV to learn of this programme.

I say thank you to the administrators and folks who took time out for the young folks and myself.

THANK YOU!

TWO YEARS CLEAN

P.s. I'll give you one of these