Bermuda pledges assistance as storm is forecast to briefly reach Category 5 strength; BWS continues regular updates
As Hurricane Melissa, now a powerful Category 4 storm, advances toward Jamaica, Premier David Burt has extended heartfelt support on behalf of the Government and people of Bermuda.
“Our thoughts are with the people of Jamaica as they prepare for the impact of Hurricane Melissa, which is forecast to reach Category 5 strength before making landfall as a Category 4 storm,” Premier Burt said. “Bermuda stands united with our Jamaican friends and neighbours, and we offer our steadfast support during this challenging time.”
Emphasizing the deep cultural and personal connections between the two islands, the Premier noted that many Bermudians- including members of his own family – have ties to Jamaica. “From our shared Caribbean heritage to the vibrant Jamaican community here in Bermuda, we are connected by family, friendship, and culture,” he said, recalling recent engagement with Prime Minister Andrew Holness and members of the Jamaican Cabinet at the CARICOM Heads of Government Meeting in July, as well as Bermuda’s recent Concacaf qualifier against Jamaica.
Premier Burt confirmed he has reached out directly to Prime Minister Holness to convey Bermuda’s concern and to offer assistance where possible as Jamaica braces for the storm.
He also acknowledged the potential impact of Hurricane Melissa on other Caribbean nations and urged Bermuda residents to keep the wider region in their thoughts.
The Bermuda Weather Service (BWS) is issuing regular updates on Hurricane Melissa, and the Government of Bermuda will continue to monitor the storm’s progress. Residents are encouraged to follow official advisories.
FSIS says wood fragments may be embedded in batter; products made Mar. 17–Sept. 26, 2025
The Hillshire Brands Company, based in Haltom City, Texas, has issued a nationwide recall of approximately 58 million pounds of State Fair corn dogs and Jimmy Dean pancakes-and-sausage on a stick because pieces of wood may be embedded in the batter, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).
The recalled items were produced between March 17 and September 26, 2025, and remain of concern because many were sold frozen and could still be in home, school, or institutional freezers.
Bermuda shoppers and food-service providers who stock U.S. frozen products are urged to check freezers and inventory immediately. Do not consume the products; discard them or return them to the place of purchase. FSIS notes multiple consumer injuries have been reported. How to identify the recalled products
Look for these establishment numbers on the package’s USDA inspection mark or elsewhere on the label: EST-582 or P-894.
To view the full list of recalled products, visit: Product List
The North Field 600m walking track at the National Sports Centre will be closed from Tuesday 28 October 2025 to Thursday 13 November 2025, as the north field and Pavilion are being prepared for The World Rugby Classic. Therefore, walkers, joggers and all other recreational users will not have access to the 600m track, outdoor gym and surrounding grassy areas during that time.
This year’s event will feature Argentina Legends, Italian Classic, Classic Canada, Classic Springboks, Classic Lions, Classic USA, South Africa Rugby and the Classic Eagles, who will each vie for crowning glory. There will also be a matches featuring Bermuda mini Rugby.
Craig Tyrrell, the NSC SVP Operations Manager, said: “We are always excited when hosting events like the World Rugby Classic, but it does mean that, for safety purposes while we prepare for and during the tournament, the North Field will have to be closed to our recreational users. We do apologise for any inconvenience, but look forward to their return after the event.”
The Lumina Festival welcomed nearly 500 dreamers, builders, and doers over to its inaugural Financial Literacy Summit, in partnership with the Bermuda Economic Development Corporation, on Friday, September 26. Attendees also included high school and college students from Bermuda College, The Berkeley Institute, and Bermuda Institute and clients of the Department of Financial Assistance. The event tackled a variety of financial literacy topics and the growing wealth disparity in Bermuda to promote financial literacy.
CEO of Signature FX Mandela Fubler, who hosted the summit’s keynote interview with the Honorable Curtis L. Dickinson, elected Member of Parliament for Constituency 21 – Pembroke South East and the Options 101 workshop, said, “Financial literacy is a subject near and dear to my heart. Growing up in Bermuda, I always felt there were many opportunities for support and guidance, but there was a lack of financial literacy education. Lumina Festival has stepped up in a massive way and provided that essential information for those most in need. I feel honored to have been included in this transformative event. Lumina has ignited a financial movement in Bermuda and I look forward to what the future holds.”
The summit featured panel discussions with local financial experts and successful entrepreneurs such as Neville Grant, CEO of Bermuda Bankers Association, former CEO of Bermuda Commercial Bank; Kimwana Eve, Founder and CEO of Lookie Lookie; and Ryan
Robinson Perinchief, lawyer, strategist, and public policy advisor; and headline speaker 19 Keys. The event also held several workshop sessions about budgeting and investing, with one session tailored for high school students to prepare them for transitioning to independent life in college. All attendees had access to an exclusive vendor marketplace that included Ahmani’s Cookie Company, Natural Mystic Hub, Duch Pops, Jazzy Treats, and many more.
Students who attended the summit described their experiences as overall positive with several networking opportunities and engaging presentations and stated that the core financial literacy concepts addressed were relevant to where they are in their journeys to financial freedom.
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Sylvia Taylor, a panelist in the Beyond the Paycheck: Building and Preserving Your Legacy discussion and co-leader of the Budgeting 101: Building a Plan That Works workshop, said, “My vision for financial literacy education on the island isn’t just about people understanding the concepts behind finances but also closing the gap when it comes to accessibility. Whether it’s access to information or access to the people that can really help you along your financial journey, Lumina can provide the opportunity to bridge the gap. The possibilities for future summits are endless, and I am hopeful that each year it will keep getting better and attendance will keep growing.”
CEO and founder of Lumina Festival Zach Wilson, who hosted the summit, said, “As we mark the one-month anniversary of the Lumina Festival, we are proud to reflect on the energy, engagement, and meaningful conversations that ignited on the island. What began as a vision to bridge financial literacy and cultural empowerment has already sparked momentum across Bermuda bringing together students, professionals and community leaders in a dynamic space of learning and inspiration. With panels, workshops and keynotes led by local trail-blazers, and set against the backdrop of our one-day summit on September 26, the excitement for what’s next is stronger than ever. As we look ahead, we are already planning how to expand access, deepen impact and build a legacy of financial empowerment from sponsorships for students to corporate development partnerships so that the knowledge shared and the mindset shifts initiated will continue to ripple through Bermuda for years to come.”
The Lumina Festival will return on May 20 and 21, 2026, with smaller events slotted to lead up to the festival. Follow Lumina Festival on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn and check out luminafest.com to get the latest news and updates on upcoming events.
The Lumina Festival’s Financial Literacy Summit was generously supported by several partners including Bermuda Economic Development Corporation, the Centennial Foundation, Ambiance Bermuda, Rose of Sharon, Bermuda Community Foundation, the Bermuda Tourism Authority, Burrows and Lightbourne, Paradise Mobile, Bermuda General Agency, and Spanish Point Entertainment.
The Lumina Festival is a Bermuda-based social enterprise dedicated to bridging the worlds of finance and culture through a unique blend of non-profit and for-profit initiatives. Through financial education, entertainment, and cultural celebration, it aims to make a social impact and promote inclusive economic growth.
Sylvia Taylor is a Qualified Accountant in the Life Reinsurance industry with a passion for personal finance. Like most people, financial literacy was not a topic of conversation in her household growing up and learning how to manage money as an adult came through trial and error. This trial and error led her to create The Frugal Onion – a place to document her financial journey, the good and the bad. Sylvia’s goal is to make learning these concepts easy for all no matter what their economic background.
Mandela Fubler is a professional trader, specializing in US indexes and commodities, with a diverse background spanning US equities, foreign exchange, and commodities. Born in Bermuda, and now based in London, he practiced law for 7 years before transitioning into financial markets. His curiosity for trading began in his second year of high school, when he first started trading US equities. Over the years, he expanded his expertise into foreign exchange and later transitioned to US indexes, refining his strategies to capitalize on intraday price movements. Now a full-time trader, he focuses primarily on the S&P 500, NASDAQ, and key commodity markets, applying a systematic approach to identify high-probability trading opportunities. Beyond his trading career, Mandela is committed to giving back to the trading community. In October 2017, he launched a YouTube channel to share his experiences, insights, and lessons with aspiring and fellow traders. Through educational lessons, live trading sessions, and market analysis, he aims to demystify trading and help others develop the skills needed to succeed in financial markets. With a disciplined approach, a deep understanding of market correlations, and a dedication to continuous learning, Mandela remains a respected member of the trading community, both as a professional trader and an educator.
Zach Wilson was born and raised in Bermuda. He started his career working in the digital marketing space after completing a Digital Media Marketing Certification at NYU. With a passion for music and creative expression, he transitioned into songwriting and vocal production, catching the attention of executives from Roc Nation, Sony/ATV, and Warner Publishing. Wilson found his creative home at Warner/Chappell with Grammy Award winning, platinum-selling producers, J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League, for several years. He has worked with artists Ella Mai, Rotimi, Rick Ross, Mack Wilds, Mali Music and more, earning him a top 3 Billboard international single and the Abe Olman Scholarship Award from The Songwriters Hall of Fame. Beyond the studio,
Zach’s entrepreneurial spirit shone through his partnership with renowned speakeasy Blind Barber as he hosted R&B/Art exhibition events that attracted a niche audience, curated a luxurious urban experience, and opened the door to other opportunities in artist management, brand collaboration and creative consulting.
It was a day of dramatic contrast for Bermudian footballers across the English pyramid, featuring late heartbreak and decisive victories.
Goalkeeper Nathan Trott and Cardiff City suffered late devastation in the Championship. Just when a draw seemed certain against Bolton Wanderers, Amario Cozier-Duberry struck from distance two minutes into stoppage time to secure a crucial 1-0 win for the hosts.
In the higher tiers, veteran forward Nahki Wells and his Luton Town teammates secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Northampton on the road.
Elsewhere, the results were mixed:
Dominant Win: Deniche Hill and Keziah Martin saw their Buxton United FC side deliver an emphatic 6-0 victory over Alfreton Town.
Cup Exit: Willie Clemons and Leiston FC bowed out of the Isuzu FA Trophy, falling 2-1 to AFC Sudbury.
League Action: Reggie Lambe and Needham Market FC secured a key win over Kettering Town. Meanwhile, Coleridge Fubler’s Binfield FC lost 3-1, and Kane Crichlow’s Sutton United went down 4-2 to Cheltenham Town.
The results cap a whirlwind weekend of action, highlighting the mixed fortunes of the Bermudian contingent in England.
Armed police respond to reported armed robbery, no suspect is found
Photo from social media
Bermuda Police Service press release:
The Bermuda Police Service (BPS) is aware of public concern following an incident earlier this afternoon, during which officers were observed running with weapons drawn, along Church Street in the City of Hamilton.
They were responding to a report of an attempted armed robbery involving a firearm. Responding officers acted swiftly and in accordance with established protocols to ensure public safety.
Following an extensive search of the surrounding area, no suspect was located. The individual who initially reported the matter has since declined to cooperate with police.
While investigations into the circumstances surrounding the report remain ongoing, there is no indication at this time that there is any ongoing threat to the public.
The Bermuda Police Service appreciates the concern shown by members of the public and thanks everyone for their understanding and cooperation as we work to make Bermuda safer.
Hamilton, Bermuda – October 23, 2025: More than 30 local healthcare professionals attended Sound Beginnings to Lifelong Hearing: A Clinical Update on Hearing Health from Childhood to Adulthood, a Continuing Medical Education event presented by Mass General Brigham at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute.
The evening’s programme, led by experts from Massachusetts Eye and Ear, explored the latest approaches to the prevention, diagnosis and management of hearing conditions affecting patients across their lifespans. Sessions covered topics such as hearing loss and chronic ear infections in children, audiologic testing, tinnitus, sudden sensorineural hearing loss, and the latest developments in hearing aids. Presenters also discussed the relationship between hearing loss, noise exposure and dementia.
The speakers from Boston were Dr Daniel J. Lee, Director of International Patient Services at Mass Eye and Ear, Dr Elliott Kozin and audiologists Meaghan Reed and Rupal Bhakta, who shared their evidence-based insights and practical tools with primary care and specialty clinicians. Following their presentations, they held a lively question-and-answer session with attendees followed by a networking dinner at Harbourfront.
‘It’s such a pleasure to be able to touch base with Bermuda’s medical community and to share knowledge on the latest advances in hearing health,’ said Dr Daniel J. Lee, FACS, Director of International Patient Services at Mass Eye and Ear. ‘Events like this allow us to connect directly with community physicians and audiologists, building relationships that support better outcomes for patients at every stage of life.’
Joanne McCaul, manager at Pickled Onion and a 21-year veteran of IRG, is the 9th person to die on Bermuda’s roads in 2025
Joanne McCaul. Photo supplied
Police today named Joanne McCaul as the 9th road fatality of 2025.
The 53 year-old was involved in a single-vehicle collision on South Road, near the junction with Lover’s Lane, Paget, around 2:30am on Tuesday, 21st October.
Ms McCaul managed several restaurants for the Island Restaurant Group, most recently Pickled Onion and Brew. She joined IRG in 2004 as a server at Hog Penny.
Yesterday, the Pickled Onion Facebook page posted a message mourning the heartbreaking loss of “Wee Jo”.
“Her passion, laughter, and warmth touched everyone who had the privilege of working with her”, the message says.
“Joanne McCaul was an inspiration to the entire Island Restaurant Group family… Over the years, she climbed the ladder into management, leading with kindness, strength, and grace.”
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to her family, friends, and everyone who loved our Wee Jo. You will forever be in our hearts. May you find peace and fly with the angels.”
A Bermuda Police Service press release states that investigations into the circumstances surrounding this collision remain ongoing, and a Family Liaison Officer has been appointed to support Ms. McCaul’s family.
The Bermuda Police Service is appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the collision, or who may have any relevant information, to contact the Roads Policing Unit on 247-1788 or 211.
Youth engagement sessions allowed young people to suggest what would make Bermuda a more exciting place for them
The Office of Youth Affairs (TOYA) hosted their “Zone In” sessions from 8–17 October as part of their ongoing youth engagement programme. These sessions provided students across Bermuda with the opportunity to learn about and engage with the National Youth Policy. Through interactive discussions and activities, students explored each policy goal, found in the National Youth Policy. Amongst the schools visited were Whitney Institute, Chatmore British International School, Bermuda High School for Girls (BHS), CedarBridge Academy, and Dellwood Middle School. The sessions encouraged open dialogue, allowing the students to express their views, ask questions, and share suggestions for improving youth development in Bermuda.
Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, the Hon. Tinee Furbert, JP, MP, who attended the “Zone In” sessions, praised the initiative, stating: “It is truly inspiring to see Bermuda’s young people so deeply involved in shaping conversations about their future. Their insights are invaluable as we continue to strengthen policies and programmes that reflect their needs, aspirations, and voices.”
Across the schools visited, two policy goals were most frequently identified as top priorities by students: Goal 1, to keep young people safe from harm, and Goal 6, to support young people to be active and healthy (with particular emphasis on mental health). These themes highlight the issues young Bermudians consider most vital to their growth and safety in today’s world.
Students also shared creative ideas on how to make Bermuda a more exciting and engaging place for young people, suggesting new activities, programmes, and opportunities for involvement. The “Zone In” sessions have proven invaluable, offering meaningful insight into the priorities of Bermuda’s young people while allowing TOYA and the Government of Bermuda to share ongoing efforts to build a Bermuda where all young people can thrive, grow, and become well-rounded adults.
For more information on the National Youth Policy and related activities, contact TOYA at 246-9100 or e-mail youthpolicy@gov.bm.
US guest worker in hospital with serious head injuries
Photo by Bermuda Police Service
Bermuda Police Service press release:
Around 5:25 pm. on Friday, October 24, 2025, Police and Emergency Medical Services personnel, attended a single vehicle road traffic collision, involving a livery cycle on Middle Road, near the junction with Raynor’s Drive, Southampton.
On arrival, officers ascertained that the livery cycle rider, a 51-year-old male guest worker from the United States, was traveling in a westerly direction along Middle Road Southampton. Upon nearing the Raynor’s Gas Station, he reportedly lost control of the vehicle and onto the roadway.
He sustained serious head injuries and was unresponsive. He was attended to at the scene by EMTs and subsequently transported by ambulance to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital, where he continues to receive treatment for his injuries which are considered life-threatening.
We wish to thank the public for their patience and cooperation while the roadway was closed and traffic diverted for approximately two hours while the collision scene was processed.
An investigation into this incident has now begun and anyone who may have witnessed or has any information regarding this collision, is asked to contact the Roads Policing Unit on 247-1788. You may also call the main police number, 295-0011 or the non-emergency reporting number, 211.
Alternatively, please provide the information via the BPS community reporting portal at, https://portal.police.bm or speak with a police officer familiar to you.
The Department of Public Transportation (DPT) advises of bus detours on Sunday, October 26th 2025 and potentially Monday, October 27th 2025, due to scheduled paving works on North Shore Road in Flatts Village by the Ministry of Public Works and Environment.
Starting from approximately 7:30 am on Sunday, October 26th, until the road is opened by the Ministry of Public Works and Environment, the following detours will take place:
Route 10 and 11 buses to Hamilton will travel via their normal route then via Flatts Hill, Middle Road Smiths, right on Store Hill, left on North Shore Road, back on route.
Route 10 buses to St. Georges will travel via their normal route then right on Frog Lane, Montpelier Road, left on Middle Road, right on Hermitage Road, left on Verdmont Road, right on Middle Road Smiths, Flatts Hill, back on route.
Route 11 buses to St. Georges will travel via their normal route until Barkers Hill Roundabout then right on Palmetto Road, left on Frog Lane, Montpelier Road, right on Hermitage Road, left on Verdmont Road, right on Middle Road Smiths, Flatts Hill, back on route.
Passengers boarding at stops between Store Hill and Barkers Hill wishing to travel east will need to travel on a Hamilton bound Route 10 or 11 and transfer to a St. Georges bound bus at either Barkers Hill Roundabout or other transfer points.
Passengers traveling from Hamilton to stops between Barkers Hill and Store Hill will need to travel on a St. Georges bound Route 10 or 11 transferring to a Hamilton bound Route 10 or 11 on Flatts Hill or other transfer points.
The Department of Public Transportation thanks the public for their continued patience and support.
‘Bermudians can’t pay their BELCO bills with buzzwords’ says Michael Fahy, in critique of Minister’s statement on the cost of living
Not impressed: Michael Fahy
Shadow Homes Affair Minister Michael Fahy has accused Minister of Homes Affairs, Alexa Lightbourne, of a “masterclass in political deflection and empty rhetoric” following her full-page newspaper ad addressing the cost-of-living crisis.
Mr Fahy saying the ad was “an insult to every Bermudian struggling to pay their bills,” calling out the Minister for performative empathy and policy paralysis disguised as progress.
“The Minister claims to ‘live your reality, but on a salary of $196,323 plus health care and a number of other perks like a Government car and seemingly unlimited travel, that statement is as hollow as it is offensive. The median Bermuda income is approximately $70,000, so she does not share the same reality — she’s insulated from it.”
Mr Fahy accuses the Minister of deflecting responsibility by blaming vague “resistance to change” rather than owning her Ministry’s slow progress.
“The Minister blames invisible enemies for her own lack of results. Instead of delivering relief, she delivers excuses. Bermudians deserve competence, not creative writing.”
He also notes the Minister’s pause on energy reforms — described as a policy reset — was a thinly veiled admission of failure whilst also shifting blame onto her predecessors.
Mr Fahy adding, “You pause when you’ve lost control. This government’s energy policy is outdated because this Minister has failed to modernise it.”
Mr Fahy points to the Minister’s use of slogans such as “people-first policies” and “fairness as a national value,” noting the absence of any concrete measures to reduce costs.
“The ad was filled with nice phrases — but no numbers, no timelines, and no policies. Bermudians can’t pay their BELCO bills with buzzwords.”
The Shadow Minister says the Opposition stands for good governance, accountability, and measurable outcomes — not self-congratulations.
“Good governance means transparency, delivery, and responsibility. It means you don’t spend taxpayers’ money on self-praise when families are choosing between groceries and electricity.”
Mr Fahy says the ad revealed a government out of ideas, out of urgency, and out of touch: “This is the luxury of delay from a Minister who can afford to wait. Ordinary Bermudians can’t. They need leadership that delivers, not language that distracts.”
He concludes: “The Opposition reaffirms its commitment to restoring good governance, prioritising affordability, and delivering real, immediate relief for Bermudian households.”
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