Irresponsible media

Dear Sir,

The American media's scare tactics about swine flu is probably worse than the disease itself. Flu is flu ... whether it comes from a pig, cat or bald eagle. There is no vaccine? Of course there is no vaccine. The flu virus mutates just about every time it comes around and the scramble is on to modify vaccines to try and combat the latest version. People who get it will get sick, some more than others and some people (the elderly) will die, just like every time the flu comes around. There is nothing new here!

There is NO evidence that this flu is worse than the one I recovered from last week! There is no cure ... it is viral, not bacteria so taking antibiotics isn't going to do a damn thing and neither is wearing a mask ... where did that idea come from? Washing your hands is probably as good an idea as anything. Just hope Bermuda does not take the irresponsible hyped up approach that the American media is notorious for. Don't forget to wash your hands!

WANDERING AND WONDERING IN SOUTHAMPTON

The possibility of Mirrors

April 27, 2009

To the staff of Mirrors,

While there was no completion dinner at which to speak, I wish to acknowledge the team for a great job on the delivery of the graduation event and the follow through programme for Cohort II. The decorations, the programme, the slides, the music and singing from both ladies (including my favourite gal!) uplifted all who were in the room and created a space of appreciation and completion. The evening was both celebratory and fulfilling. I was moved by the words that were spoken by each of those who took the stage that evening.

Each one of the youth who spoke – from those who had a well thought out and prepared speech, to those who wanted to write it from their heart in the moment – they have clearly opened themselves up to and are standing in partnership with the possibility that Mirrors is. I had the opportunity to speak with some of the families and all were so proud of their children. The appreciation for the support they received from the staff and volunteers was echoed by each person I met. On their behalf, thank you staff for your contribution throughout the process.

As I listened to one of Committed Partners, knowing all the challenges she faced in working with her assigned youth, I was struck by the clarity of her speaking. Ruth allowed the work to move through her as she struggled to accomplish her personal goals. Her sharing was more of a declaration than a speech. It was a gift for all those who consider joining the Mirrors team. That she has signed up for the next cycle -reflects on the program as a whole.

Having Senator Marc Bean's good energy to welcome and facilitate the overall event was a delight to see. Minister Butler is consistently enthusiastic and succinct in his sharing of the overall history of Mirrors, including all the current programme components. The Premier was both eloquent and inspiring. He addressed the facts and results of the entire graduating class at precisely a time when the programme's effectiveness could be open to negative interpretation if left unspoken. This reflects leadership in action, accounting for the current state and building what will come next out of his speaking. His personal compassion in addressing the issue of incarceration – and declaring that the focus of youth enrolment is "on track" and will continue to be so, put what's at stake in each family on the public table.

Tory's ability to share for and stand in behalf of the young man who is incarcerated went straight into the heart of a hurting mother. As her son's words were read, the seed of a renewed and fragile hope is planted once again. Thank you, Tory for delivering that arrow to its target.

In particular, to Jeanene, the night was yours. As I reflect upon the learning, overall delivery and effectiveness of the work just completed; I want to acknowledge that there was an added pressure due to Vincent leaving. Regardless of the challenges, Jeanene, you have consistently presented yourself in a mature and professional manner to staff, consultants, youth and volunteers alike. Your actions and demeanour say much about who you are. To be accountable for holding two very different Cohorts, your capacity to grow and deliver is an inspiration to me; you have an extraordinary talent for creating openings for people to engage in their own development. Take a moment for yourself and honour all you have done.

To me, the possibility of Mirrors is built upon the courage of the staff. It takes the conscious effort of the whole team to spin this web of transformation throughout the internal organisation. When artfully crafted, that web will ultimately support the staffs' capacity to design and deliver appropriate services for the community client. Each and every individual is vital in sourcing and sustaining the integrity of any organisation.

Collectively, the staff works to recreate the organisational vision from their individual accountability. When those at the top of the chain of accountability are supported from the base, it creates a solid foundation beneath that stage upon which any leader can stand, declare and assert that the vision is real and can be both measured and renewed.

In behalf of that support, I send thanks to all the staff for soldiering through this process of creation. Along with all of the unpredictable tasks and conversations required, I know that there are personal and individual challenges when working for an emerging organisation, not yet fully designed and without the security of repetition or financial guarantee. In that way I think Mirrors reflects life; unpredictable and challenging, requiring individual courage and compassion, best experienced with one another through mutual support and respect.

With that being said I acknowledge the Mirrors team;

• Our Interning Graduates from Cohort I; Nicole and lesha, for your youthful creativity and willingness to learn through action. Equally for your patience as we all find our own way in this creation called Mirrors. Thank you for the lessons in keeping a new spirit alive.

• To Angela, Vernelda and Usseff for all the daily tasks they fulfil with the countless details and accumulation of data in all its forms, the moving of stuff from here to there and back again and for all the fires you put out before the smoke reaches the top.

• To Tory and Kim, you are the memory keepers and dream weavers for what has been learnt and for what will come next and beyond the limit of a plan. To have your work be a platform for contribution to others requires a warrior's spirit with a loving heart.

Thank you for all the efforts which may not have seen and to those new staff that I not have named individually in this letter, thank you for your work — it is valued and visible from here. Thank you and I will see you soon.

CHIA VASQUEZ

Advisor In-Residence

Uncommon Results

The big difference now

April 30, 2009

Dear Sir,

Again, I raise the issue of Bermudian taxpayers' funds being wasted by certain PLP individuals utilising Govt vehicles, as private taxis (GP1 to GP4 etc.) and who also appear to "charge their lifestyle" expenses on the public purse! It also seems that the road traffic laws are not applicable to them either! (Bus station incident)

I also loved this comment ... Sgt. Major Marilyn Steede of Bermuda Regiment said: "I confirm that the 'Diplomatic driver' responsible for GP1 is indeed employed by the Bermuda Regiment". LOL! The only "diplomat" I know of in Bermuda is the Queen's representative ... the Governor!

You can rest assured that the Bermudian taxpayer pays for the insurance, licensing, gasoline and maintenance of these vehicles, as well! Bermudians ... are you really that "clueless" as to how your tax dollars are being wasted, by a pompous bunch of egomaniacs who want and dictate that a majority of their living & travelling expenses, be paid out of the 'Public Purse'?

I remember when Jack Sharpe was the Premier and he used to ride around on his Mobylette (Scooter for the younger generation). Now there was a man with character, integrity and ethics'! That my friends, in three words, is the BIG difference that separates today's so-called Politicians! One of these days ... 'The Penny Will Drop'!

BRUCE MCCLARRON

Arizona

We deserve new leadership

March 30, 2009

Dear Sir,

Various media have suggested that there could be a change of the leadership in the PLP. Dr. Brown could be challenged as there appears to be a faction of the PLP which is disenchanted with his leadership, and the way he carries out his functions as Premier. The country is crying out and deserves new leadership. Dr. Brown's style of leadership could be viewed as dictatorial. It is his way or no way. We have seen this with the GPS issue, the illegal dump truck issue and the dismissal of Bermudians in the New York Tourism Office.

He does not appear to listen to the common folk on issues that affect their livelihoods. This is contrary to what the PLP stands for. The PLP was born out of the Trade Union Movement and it has always struggled for civil rights that were previously denied many Bermudians. It has been suggested that the Premier's absenteeism when living abroad could have alienated him from the wants and needs of the people he was elected to serve. The constant allegations of cronyism and nepotism does not serve him well. Huge Government contracts have been given to his family and friends.

Ask yourself, does the PLP need change at this time? Are you happy with their performance under the leadership of Dr. Brown? If not, consider this. Can the PLP afford a leadership challenge at this time? The next general election is four years away. Do we want more of the same, or do we want change? The timing could be right. Can the PLP elect a new leader who is more caring and subservient to the people whilst still maintaining their power? I think so. This makes me want to comment on the UBP. They seem to have not got their act together, but should galvanise themselves together and take advantage of any opportunity that may present itself.

Finally, ask yourself, is there anyone capable of leading the PLP other than Dr. Brown? A few names to consider are; Mr. Elvin James, Mr. Terry Lister, Ms Paula Cox or Mr. Dale Butler. (not in any particular order) I think the PLP could gain strength with new leadership, but who is to say I know what I am talking about? Thank you for allowing me to express my opinion.

FREEDOM OF THE PRESS

Smith's