The CS Tires Cobra Puma Junior Championship 2025 is underway at the Ocean View Golf Course, with Lewis MacFarlane and Arman Newton establishing early leads in their respective divisions after a solid first day of competition.
Boys 14-17: Newton Sets the Pace
The most competitive round of the day came from the Boys 14-17 division, where Arman Newton separated himself from the field, carding a fine even-par 72 to take the lead.
Chasing him is Johnny Bart, who finished the round four strokes back on 76, while Ramsay Soutter sits in third place with a score of 79. Newton will aim to maintain his momentum heading into the final round to secure the trophy.
Boys 11-13: MacFarlane Opens Up Lead
In the Boys 11-13 category, Lewis MacFarlane has built a commanding lead. MacFarlane shot a first-round score of 77, giving him a seven-stroke advantage over his nearest rival.
Fletcher Logie is currently positioned in second place with an 84, narrowly ahead of Damian Moniz, who completed his opening round with an 85.
Girls Division
Darina Betschart is the sole competitor in the Girls Division. She recorded a respectable score of 4-over par 74, a performance that sets a strong benchmark for the rest of the championship.
The second line at the port city of Tianjin near Beijing will increase Airbus’ manufacturing capability for best-selling A320neo-family single-aisle jets
International News via Reuters:
Airbus is poised to open a second assembly line in China with limited fanfare this week, days after securing an extra foothold in the United States as it walks a tightrope between divided trade powers, industry sources said.
The second line at the port city of Tianjin near Beijing will increase Airbus’ manufacturing capability for best-selling A320neo-family single-aisle jets, mirroring the addition of a second line in Mobile, Alabama, just over a week ago.
Unlike the inauguration of its first non-European assembly line, at a high-profile ceremony involving 600 guests in Tianjin more than 15 years ago, this week’s expansion will be a relatively low-key affair with no Western media allowed.
Airbus declined to comment.
Industry sources said earlier this month that the two back-to-back ceremonies in Mobile and then Tianjin were being designed to avoid falling foul of a tricky trade climate between China and the United States.
Since Airbus first announced the overseas expansion plans in 2022 and 2023, Washington and Beijing have plunged into a months-long trade war, leaving Airbus and some other European companies anxious to avoid offending either trade power.
Airbus relies on U.S. parts to assemble jets in China and Europe and also depends on smooth ties with the United States, where several of its major airline customers are based.
At the same time, Airbus has been negotiating to sell up to 500 planes to China, a goal first reported by Reuters in April. Sources have said it is likely to secure only part of the order to coincide with the new Tianjin factory expansion.
Boeing has been negotiating a similar 500-plane deal but this remains mired in the back-and-forth discussions over trade, industry sources said, confirming a Bloomberg report.
Airbus is increasing capacity to support higher production of its A320neo family to 75 jets a month in 2027. Doubling capacity at Mobile and Tianjin is part of the industrial plans.
Writing by Tim Hepher; Editing by Tomasz Janowski and Alexander Smith
Bermuda’s rising tennis star, Chloe McBrearty, has claimed the USTA, Level 6: Halloween Howler U14 tournament title in Tampa, Florida, showcasing exceptional fighting spirit against older competition.
The 12-year-old, who is the top-ranked player in Bermuda for both the U12 and U14 divisions, deliberately opted to compete in the Under 14 category for a greater challenge.
McBrearty’s composure was tested in the final, which turned into a gripping comeback:
After losing the first set 6-4, the young Bermudian rallied brilliantly to dominate the second set, winning 6-1.
The decisive 10-point tie-break became a tense nail-biter. McBrearty displayed remarkable nerve to edge out her opponent, securing the championship with a 14-12 tie-break score.
The victory marks a significant achievement in McBrearty’s young career, proving her readiness to succeed at a higher age group level on the international circuit.
The Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute (BUEI), winner of the 2025 Family Favourites Award for “Best Museum for Kids”, invites you to our annual Halloween Party from 12pm – 4pm on Saturday, October 25th. This spook-tacular event is one of the island’s most popular family-friendly Halloween activities, providing a special concoction of fun with thrills and chills for all ages!
BUEI’s famous “Haunted Tunnel” provides a mildly spooky adventure recommended for ages 5–12, and our magical “Enchanted Dive” lets little gremlins explore a deep-sea world of wonder. Guests will also enjoy a lineup of bone-rattling games, creepy crawling crafts, mad scientist experiments and great prizes to be won throughout the afternoon.
Come dressed to impress for the costume parade, which includes top prizes for the scariest, most original, and best family themes. Whether you’re a glitter fairy princess, wicked witch, daring superhero, or a spooky skeleton, there’s a chance to win big!
Bracelets are on sale now for $20 (children ages 3 and up). Prices rise to $25 at the door, so don’t wait! Children 2 and under are $10, and adults and infants are free.
Get your bracelets today at BUEI.org/events or PTix.bm. You can also purchase bracelets at BUEI’s Ocean’s Gift Shop or by calling 294-0204.
PLP makes clarion call to young people ahead of its annual conference
Statement by Shomari Talbot-Woolridge, Progressive Minds Chair
This is a clarion call for young people across Bermuda to step forward, join the Progressive Labour Party, and take their place in shaping the future of our country. During the Annual General Conference, young people under 35 can join the PLP for FREE. We’re inviting you to come to the Annual General Conference and seize this moment.
Our country stands at a crossroads, and so does our Party. The Progressive Labour Party remains the only political entity with the power, seriousness, and sophistication not just to run this country, but to ensure that policies which positively impact the lives of Bermudians are brought into reality the right way.
This moment calls for us as young people to carry the baton forward. Instead of asking where the great leaders of the past, like L. F. Wade and Dame Lois Browne-Evans, are, it is time for us to step into the room and become the leaders of the 21st century that we ourselves have been looking for.
We have the ability to shape Bermuda’s future, how our democracy evolves, how our country embraces and leads in technology, and how we navigate an ever-changing world.
Let this be that call. Join us at the 60th Anniversary Annual General Conference of the Progressive Labour Party under the theme “Leading for the Next Generation.” If you’re under 35, your PLP membership is FREE during the Conference period. Come out, sign up, and bring a friend.
The Conference takes place Wednesday, October 22, Thursday, October 23, and Friday, October 24 at the Ruth Seaton James Auditorium. This is your time. This is your moment. Young people, come into the room, join the PLP, and lead the next generation.
Bermudian sailors endured brutal conditions at the ILCA UK National Open 5 in Weymouth, where strong winds limited the event to a single day of racing.
In the ILCA 6 class, Olympian Adriana Penruddocke sailed brilliantly to secure third place overall in a massive 81-boat fleet. Her consistency proved key, capped by a dominant win in the final race, following a fifth and a fourth place finish. She finished with just 10 total points.
Meanwhile, Sebastian Kempe faced an eventful day in the ILCA 7 fleet. The highly competitive sailor was hit by major misfortune in the very first race when he broke his mast.
Despite receiving high point scores for the first two races due to the equipment failure, Kempe showcased his fighting spirit by replacing his gear and returning to the water for the final race, where he impressively crossed the line in fifth place. His determination resulted in a 23rd-place overall finish with 77 points.
HAMILTON, Bermuda, October 21st, 2025 – Luscar Place, the highly anticipated mixed-use development located on Pitts Bay Road, has marked a key construction milestone with the installation of its first piece of steel. This momentous step occurred this month, reflecting the project’s continued momentum as it moves closer to its completion in July 2027.
Dennis Fugundo of D&J Construction said: “The installation of the first steel beam is a significant moment for Luscar Place, signifying the beginning of its transformation into a world-class development. The building’s striking architectural design promises to change the skyline, offering a dynamic space for both commercial office and retail tenants.”
The building’s design prioritizes both environmental stewardship and aesthetic distinction, evidenced by its rooftop solar energy infrastructure and a lobby showcasing a curated collection of world-class contemporary art. The interior will be graced by works from renowned international artists, including Rana Begum, Damien Hirst, Do Ho Suh, KAWS, and Spencer Finch, offering a unique cultural experience that is designed to set Luscar Place apart within the commercial landscape.
Alexander Green said: “The Green Family is committed to supporting developments that serve as multi-purpose gathering spaces and venues where design, art, and community can fully coexist in Hamilton. That unifying vision is what inspired Luscar Place. Installation of the first piece of steel marks a pivotal milestone. Every bolt, beam, and girder is a testament to our unwavering commitment to building that vision into reality.”
New Renderings of Luscar Place’s Vision – A closer look at the building’s striking design, offers a glimpse of the building’s lobby, as well as its exterior view. (See attachments)
Leasing Opportunities at Luscar Place – Rego Sotheby’s International Realty, the exclusive listing agent, reports a highly positive market response to the development. Leasing activity is currently robust, with tenancies secured for three of the six commercial floors.
Premium commercial offices on Floors 1, 2 and 3 and Ground Floor retail units are available. With flexible floor plans, cutting-edge amenities, and a prime location with the highest density of foot traffic in Bermuda, Luscar Place is poised to attract a diverse range of tenants looking for a world-class space in Bermuda’s thriving commercial hub.
Penny MacIntyre, Partner, Rego Sotheby’s International Realty, said: “We are excited to see Luscar Place take shape to address the local and international demand for new Class A office space in Bermuda. Our market has come to respect and appreciate the Green Family’s world-class developments and best-in-class building management of their office and retail properties. Luscar Place will deliver more of the modern functionality today’s sophisticated, global tenants expect.”
Attachments: Luscar Place Steel Installation, Building Renderings, Worker’s Appreciation Celebration Photos
About Luscar Place Luscar Place will offer two ground-floor retail units, an outdoor patio, and office floors featuring balconies with views across Bacardi global headquarters and its gardens, Hamilton Harbour and the Great Sound. Luscar Place prioritizes convenience and sustainability with an upgraded garage facility featuring both underground and above grade parking with provisioning for electric vehicle charging stations. The seven-story Luscar Place, located at the corner or Pitts Bay Road and Waterloo Lane is anticipated to be completed by July 2027. Interested parties are encouraged to contact Penny MacIntyre of Rego Sotheby’s International Realty via email: pmacintyre@regosir.com or phone (441) 299-1508
After more than four decades of distinguished service, Ms. C. Joanne Brangman, Director of the Department of Libraries and Archives, officially retired from the Public Service on September 30, 2025.
Ms. Brangman’s journey in librarianship began in July 1982 at the Bermuda Youth Library under the mentorship of Mrs. Florenz Webbe Maxwell. Reflecting on her early days, she shared, “Within weeks of working at the Youth Library, I realised this was where I belonged. I’ve always loved reading. I was the child who had to be coaxed outside to play, and I quickly understood the power of libraries to inspire learning and build community.”
Her path to leadership was marked by determination, a lifelong commitment to learning, and an unwavering dedication to public service. After earning her Master of Library Science from Atlanta University in 1984, Ms. Brangman returned home to begin her professional career as an Assistant Reference Librarian at the Bermuda National Library. She later served as Circulation Librarian and, in 1999, was appointed Head Librarian, later retitled Director of Libraries and Archives.
During her tenure, Ms. Brangman led the Department through transformative change, overseeing the merger of the Bermuda National Library and the Bermuda Archives, the introduction of public internet access, and the launch of a digital library collection. She championed the creation of the Local Studies Collection, celebrating Bermuda’s cultural heritage, and established the Digital Studio at the Bermuda Archives, a space dedicated to preserving the island’s history through digitisation.
Under her leadership, the Department expanded its community reach through Outreach Services for seniors and homebound residents, and it also embraced new learning platforms, including Mango Languages, Tutor.com, and Universal Class. She also guided the renaming of the Youth Library in honour of her mentor, now known as the Florenz Webbe Maxwell Youth Library.
Throughout her career, Ms Brangman and her team’s work and innovative approach were recognised with multiple honours, including Best of Bermuda Awards for the Main Library, Youth Library, and Bermuda Archives, as well as a Bermuda National Trust Service Award and creative accolades such as the City of Hamilton’s Christmas Window Contest.
But among her many achievements, Ms. Brangman says she is most proud of the people she worked alongside, saying, “Of all our accomplishments, what fills me with the greatest pride is the growth of our team. I’ve had the privilege of supporting staff who pursued advanced degrees and professional development. Their dedication to providing quality service to our community is the heartbeat of this institution.”
Ms. Brangman also acknowledged the librarians and archivists who paved the way, including Grace Rawlins and Florenz Maxwell, whose legacies continue to inspire the Department’s work.
As she steps away from her official role, Ms Brangman remains committed to the vision of a unified library facility, one that brings together the Adult Library, Youth Library, and Archives under a single roof. “Though I step away from the title, I do not step away from the mission,” she said. “I look forward to continuing to work with the Friends of the Library and the Department of Libraries and Archives to help make that dream a reality.”
The Ministry for the Cabinet Office and Digital Innovation extends its sincere appreciation to Ms. Brangman for her exceptional service, leadership, and lifelong dedication to fostering learning, culture, and community in Bermuda.
The Rugby Americas North (RAN) Senior Sevens Tournament is set for three days of high-stakes action at the Larry Gomes Stadium in Trinidad, with Bermuda entering an expanded field in both the Men’s and Women’s competitions.
The event serves as a crucial qualification pathway. Winners of the top brackets will earn a shot at the SVNS pathway, part of World Rugby’s elite circuit.
Significantly, both the Bermuda Men’s Tier 1 (MT1) and Women’s (W) teams are competing for spots at the 2026 Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games in the Dominican Republic. The top three MT1 teams (excluding Canada) and the top two Women’s teams will qualify.
With increased regional participation, the tournament format is intense. The Men’s Tier 1 will use a pool and knockout stage, while the Women’s and Men’s Tier 2 (MT2) brackets will compete via round-robin play.
Canada (MT1) and México (W) enter as defending champions, but Bermuda’s presence in both top-tier fields highlights the island’s growing regional rugby ambition.
Bermuda has recorded another road traffic fatality following a serious overnight crash in Paget.
Police say the first of two collisions took place just after midnight on Middle Road near St. Paul’s Lane. A motorcycle and a car were reportedly travelling in opposite directions when they collided.
The male rider was taken to hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries. The driver of the car has been arrested in connection with the incident.
While officers were managing that scene, around 2:35 a.m., members of the public alerted police to a second crash — this time at the junction of South Road and Lovers Lane, also in Paget.
Officers found an unresponsive female lying in the road. She was also taken to hospital with serious injuries. That incident is believed to involve a single rental cycle.
Traffic diversions remain in place this morning, and drivers are urged to use alternate routes and expect delays.
Police are appealing to anyone who witnessed either crash or has information to call 211.
An internal recommendation on October 10 by one of the working groups within the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) flagged ethanol as a toxic substance
International News via Reuters:
The EU is weighing a ban on the usage of ethanol as an active ingredient in biocidal products, including hand sanitizers, over increasing risks of cancer, the Financial Times reported on Tuesday.
An internal recommendation on October 10 by one of the working groups within the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) flagged ethanol as a toxic substance, which increased the risk of cancer and pregnancy complications and needed to be replaced in cleaning and other products, the FT said.
The ECHA’s Biocidal Products Committee is set to meet between November 25 and November 28.
The ECHA told Reuters in an emailed statement that the regulator was currently assessing ethanol for biocidal use.
The regulator said if its expert committee concluded that ethanol had the potential to cause cancer or harm human reproduction, it would recommend its substitution.
It added that assessments were still ongoing and no conclusions had been made. The final decision will be taken by the European Commission following the committee’s scientific opinion.
The World Health Organization classifies both ethanol and isopropanol as safe to use for hand hygiene.
Reporting by Disha Mishra and Gnaneshwar Rajan in Bengaluru; Editing by Jamie Freed and Kate Mayberry
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