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Opinion: Birds, nature & a new chapter for conservation in Bermuda 

Bermuda Broadcasting Newsdesk
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Opinion: Birds, nature & a new chapter for conservation in Bermuda 

NAB Third Sector Spotlight: Bermuda Audubon Society

Images supplied

Written by Heather Bottelli, President of the Bermuda Audubon Society and Janice Hetzel, past President of the Bermuda Audubon Society 

Bermuda is home to some of the most unique ecosystems in the Atlantic and has provided food and shelter to more than 400 bird species. From the haunting call of the Cahow to the flash of a Bluebird across a garden, these natural treasures shape our sense of place and connect us to the wider world. 

But this beauty is under threat. Wetlands are vanishing, woodlands are shrinking, and development pressures are accelerating. As a small island, we can’t afford to lose the open spaces that protect our biodiversity, store carbon and give us room to breathe. 

Across North America, bird populations have dropped by 29% since 1970, and one-third of U.S. bird species are now at risk. Bermuda lies directly on critical migratory pathways, hosting 44% of these vulnerable species at some point in their journey. The habitats we protect on our island have global significance. 

Since 1954, the Bermuda Audubon Society has worked to conserve Bermuda’s birdlife and natural habitats for the benefit of all. We are a volunteer-driven organisation, and our focus has grown beyond bird conservation to embrace habitat restoration, environmental education and community science. Why? Because the health of our environment is inseparable from the well-being of our people. 

Spending just two hours a week in nature has been shown to improve physical and mental health – benefits comparable to regular exercise. In other words, protecting the environment isn’t just good for wildlife; it’s good for all of us. 

Here’s how we’re making our vision a reality: 

Protecting Wild Spaces 

We care for more than 75 acres of nature reserves, including 24 acres safeguarded with the Bermuda National Trust through the Buy Back Bermuda initiative. These wetlands and woodlands are biodiversity hotspots – home to rare species and natural defenses against flooding and erosion. 

Restoring Bird Populations 

We protect the birds that define Bermuda’s natural heritage. We sell and install Longtail Igloos and Bluebird nest boxes, and the Bermuda Bluebird Society, under our umbrella, monitors nearly 200 nest boxes across 26 sites. Every sighting matters: our citizen scientists record their observations in eBird, a global database that tracks bird populations worldwide. Bermuda has logged 401 species, with around 200 recorded annually. 

Inspiring the Next Generation 

We bring Bermudians closer to nature through birdwatching walks, offshore boat tours, lectures and school visits. Our annual Paget Island Bird Camp celebrates migration season, while trips to Nonsuch Island give participants unforgettable encounters with young Cahows and Longtail chicks. Online, our social channels reach thousands more—because when people connect with nature, they’re more likely to protect it. 

Advocacy 

We speak up when nature is at risk – scrutinising development proposals, defending protected areas, and pushing for better care of our national parks. With Bermuda’s open spaces under constant pressure, advocacy is not optional, it’s essential. 

What’s Next 

We’re entering a new era. To reflect the breadth of our mission, we are working towards changing our name to Birds & Nature Bermuda. This new name captures the full scope of our work and our commitment to inclusivity, education, and environmental stewardship. It also allows us to move beyond the troubling legacy of John James Audubon, whose name is linked to racism and slavery. We remain the same passionate organisation – just with a name that better reflects who we are, what we do and who we serve. We welcome you to join us. 

The transition to Birds & Nature Bermuda will take time. We are working through the legal, financial, and operational requirements before finalising the change. Watch for updates to our website, social media, and signage in the coming months.   

We invite you to follow along, get involved, become a member and help ensure that Bermuda remains a beautiful island where birds, nature, and people will all thrive – today and for generations to come.  For more information, email us at info@audubon.bm or visit our website at www.audubon.bm.   

This op-ed is part of the Third Sector Spotlight Series, a collective media campaign coordinated by the Nonprofit Alliance of Bermuda. This campaign aims to raise awareness of the value, impact and contributions of Bermuda’s nonprofit sector.

Vietnam evacuates thousands, shuts airports as Typhoon Bualoi nears

Bermuda Broadcasting Newsdesk
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Vietnam evacuates thousands, shuts airports as Typhoon Bualoi nears

The typhoon was generating winds of up to 133 km/h (83 mph) as of 1000 GMT and is forecast to make landfall in central Vietnam around 0100 on Monday

International News via Reuters:

Vietnam closed airports and evacuated thousands of people in areas under storm threat on Sunday, as intensifying Typhoon Bualoi barrelled towards the country, days after causing at least 10 deaths and widespread flooding in the Philippines.

The typhoon was generating winds of up to 133 km/h (83 mph) as of 1000 GMT and is forecast to make landfall in central Vietnam around 0100 on Monday, slowing as it nears the coast, state-run Thanh Nien newspaper reported.

“This is a rapidly moving storm – nearly twice the average speed – with strong intensity and a broad area of impact,” the national weather forecast agency said.

“It is capable of triggering multiple natural disasters simultaneously, including powerful winds, heavy rainfall, flooding, flash floods, landslides, and coastal inundation.”

Northern and central provinces may see up to 600 mm of rain through October 1, with rivers rising by 9 meters and risks of flooding and landslides, it said.

Authorities in the central province of Ha Tinh have started to evacuate more than 15,000 people, the government said, adding thousands of troops were standing ready.

Residents in Vinh, capital of Nghe An province where the typhoon is expected to make landfall, were rushing to secure homes, tie down boats, and stack sandbags or water-filled sacks on rooftops.

“We already suffered from losses from recent Typhoon Kajiki this year and haven’t recovered yet,” said Bui Thi Tuyet, a 41-year-old resident. “Over the last 20 years living here, I have not felt this terrified because of storms.”

Vietnam suspended operations at four coastal airports from Sunday, including Da Nang International Airport, and adjusted the departure time of several flights, the Civil Aviation Authority said.

Schools in the typhoon-affected area will be closed on Monday, with closures potentially extended if necessary, according to news site VnExpress.

Heavy rain has already caused flooding in Hue and Quang Tri, the government said.

With a long coastline facing the South China Sea, Vietnam is prone to typhoons that are often deadly. Last year, Typhoon Yagi killed around 300 people and caused $3.3 billion of property damage.

Reporting by Thinh Nguyen and Phuong NguyenEditing by Kim Coghill and Peter Graff

UK’s Starmer urges Labour party to unite for ‘fight of our lives’

Bermuda Broadcasting Newsdesk
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UK’s Starmer urges Labour party to unite for ‘fight of our lives’

The next national election is not due until 2029, but with Reform surging in popularity, Starmer is seeking a positive narrative

International News via Reuters:

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer urged his Labour Party on Sunday to stop “navel gazing” and unite against Reform UK, accusing the rising populist party of planning a “racist policy” of mass deportation if it wins power.

Labour is well behind Reform in opinion polls, and Starmer kicked off its annual conference in the city of Liverpool by exhorting members to focus their anger on that party, led by Brexit campaigner Nigel Farage, not his own leadership.

“We have got the fight of our lives ahead of us, because we’ve got to take on Reform. We’ve got to beat them, and so now is not the time for introspection or navel gazing,” he told BBC News. “We need to be in that fight united.”

UK PM DEFENDS EFFORTS TO TACKLE ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION

The next national election is not due until 2029, but with Reform surging in popularity, Starmer is seeking a positive narrative after difficult weeks when his deputy leader and his ambassador to the U.S. were forced to quit.

The conference gives him a chance to rally Labour and redirect the frustrations of critics who want him replaced, including the mayor of Manchester, Andy Burnham.

But it is a tough battle.

Starmer and his finance minister, Rachel Reeves, are under pressure inside the party to increase spending, and relax self-imposed fiscal rules that aim to balance day-to-day expenditure with tax revenue by 2029. But the government is expected to raise taxes in a budget on November 26 to adhere to the rules.

“The budget is an absolutely critical point of us knowing whether direction is going to change,” said Sharon Graham, head of Unite, one of Britain’s biggest trade unions.

“We should stop dancing around our handbag and do that (change the fiscal rules). If that budget is essentially nothing … I think we’ve got a real problem on our hands, because without the money to make the change, then nothing is going to change.”

STARMER CRITICISED BY LABOUR LEFT AND RIGHT

But while leftist party members criticise Starmer for failing to improve living standards as he promised at last year’s election, centrists fear the markets could punish the government if it raises spending.

Reform UK’s central policy is restricting immigration, one of voters’ main concerns.

Starmer turned his fire on Farage’s party.

“It is one thing to say we’re going to remove illegal migrants, people who have no right to be here. I’m up for that,” he said.

“It is a completely different thing to say we are going to reach in to people who are lawfully here and start removing them … I do think that it’s a racist policy, I do think it is immoral.”

According to the polling firm Ipsos, only 13% of voters are satisfied with Starmer while 79% are dissatisfied – the worst score of any prime minister since it started collecting the data in 1977.

Starmer said he was not simply ignoring criticism and would be judged by three things: improvement in living standards, better public services, and whether people felt safe in their homes.

Reporting by Elizabeth Piper and Andrew MacAskill; Editing by David Holmes and Kevin Liffey

Bermuda ‘a leader in the digital asset space’

Bermuda Broadcasting Newsdesk
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Bermuda ‘a leader in the digital asset space’

The AG, addressing a recent compliance conference, also says PIPA is transforming the way we think about data and privacy

Bermuda Compliance Professionals Association Conference Welcome Message from the AttorneyGeneral and Minister of Justice, the Hon. Kim Wilkerson, JP

Welcome to the Bermuda Compliance Professionals Conference. This event brings together leaders, practitioners, and emerging talent from across our jurisdiction to exchange knowledge and strengthen the profession that safeguards Bermuda’s reputation as a trusted global partner.

Since the Association’s first conference in 2018, the compliance field has undergone profound change. New technologies, evolving international standards, and the full implementation of Bermuda’s Personal Information Protection Act have reshaped expectations of governance, transparency, and accountability. At the same time, our jurisdiction has advanced as a leader in digital assets, while continuing to align with international best practice in preparation for upcoming reviews by the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force. These developments underscore the central role of compliance professionals in ensuring Bermuda remains respected, credible, and competitive.

This year also marks the establishment of the Compliance Academy at Bermuda College. The Academy will serve as a vital resource for training and certification, providing both experienced officers and new entrants with the tools to navigate an increasingly complex environment. Equally important, it will open new pathways for young Bermudians to build rewarding careers in a profession that is both dynamic and essential to our future.

Your work extends far beyond adherence to rules and procedures. Compliance professionals act as guardians of corporate integrity, advisors to leadership, and protectors of the reputation on which our international business and financial services depend. This conference provides a rare opportunity to reflect on those responsibilities, share best practices, and strengthen the networks that support your vital work.

On behalf of the Government of Bermuda, I thank you for your commitment, your professionalism, and the vigilance you bring to your roles each day. I encourage you to make the most of this gathering—to learn, to connect, and to continue advancing a profession that is critical to Bermuda’s success.

Warm regards,

The Hon. Kim Wilkerson, JP
Attorney-General and Minister of Justice

Bermuda Compliance Professionals Association Conference Address from Attorney General and Minister of Justice, the Hon. Kim Wilkerson, JP

Good morning, everyone.

It is a privilege to be here with you today for this important gathering of Bermuda’s compliance community. I want to begin by acknowledging the organisers of this conference and the Association for their continued commitment to raising standards and advancing this vital profession in Bermuda.

The inaugural conference was held in 2018. At that time, the compliance landscape was already complex, but no one could have imagined that it would take seven years for us to meet again. The pandemic disrupted our ability to gather, to share, and to learn in this way. Yet if there is one thing I know about compliance professionals, it is that you are resilient. You adapt. You overcome. And your presence here today is proof of that.

Since 2018, the landscape has shifted dramatically. Bermuda has established itself as a leader in the digital asset space, creating one of the world’s first comprehensive regulatory frameworks through the Digital Asset Business Act. At the same time, the Personal Information Protection Act, passed in 2016, came fully into effect as of January this year. This is transforming the way we all think about data, privacy, and accountability. And of course, the rise of artificial intelligence and regtech solutions has added new dimensions to the compliance profession, bringing both opportunities and new risks to manage.

Additionally, the Government is advancing targeted legislation to strengthen the effectiveness of our framework and align with the updated FATF standards as we diligently prepare for our 5th Round review by the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force in 2026. The changes include enhancing beneficial ownership, modernising the trusts framework and refining the NPO/ Charities regime on a risk-based footing.

Consistent with these efforts, the launch of the Compliance Academy at the Bermuda College next week is timely and very important. This initiative will ensure that compliance officers, whether seasoned professionals or new entrants, have access to the training, resources, and certification necessary to navigate an ever-changing environment. It will also provide a pathway for young Bermudians to enter a field that is growing, impactful, and central to the success of our jurisdiction. The Ministry of Justice has committed to ensuring that support is provided to ensure the modules are aligned to specific areas of industry in need of strengthening.

Because compliance officers are not simply administrators. You are the guardians of Bermuda’s corporate reputation. You are the gatekeepers who ensure that our financial services sector and, increasingly, other industries remain respected, credible, and trusted. Bermuda’s blue-chip reputation does not happen by accident. It is built, day by day, on your vigilance, your expertise, and your professionalism.

And you do this while wearing many hats. You are money laundering specialists, data privacy officers, fraud examiners, regulatory interpreters, educators, and often, trusted advisers to boards and executives. Compliance is a profession of moving parts, requiring a unique blend of skills, judgment, and integrity.

We are also seeing something very encouraging: the growth of compliance as a career path for younger Bermudians. Since 2018, more young professionals have stepped into compliance roles, not just in financial services, but across digital assets, insurance, and beyond. Their energy and fresh perspectives are strengthening the profession and ensuring its sustainability into the future. The Government strongly supports creating opportunities, through education and training, for even more young people to enter this field.

The truth is, there are few opportunities in Bermuda for compliance professionals to come together in this way, to exchange knowledge, to share best practices, and to build a professional community. That is what makes this conference, and the launch of the Compliance Academy, so important. They will not only strengthen individual careers but also reinforce Bermuda’s reputation as a trusted and respected player on the global stage.

So, on behalf of the Government of Bermuda, I want to extend my gratitude to each of you. Thank you for the role you play as guardians of our reputation. Thank you for the dedication and professionalism you bring to your work every day. And thank you for investing your time here, to learn, to grow, and to strengthen the compliance profession in Bermuda.

As Attorney General, I assure you that this Government values your contribution and will continue to support initiatives that enhance compliance, protect our reputation, and create opportunities for Bermudians to thrive in this vital sector. To this end, I invite you to partner with us, as it is only through collaboration that we can achieve the outcomes we seek.

Let us use this conference not just to reflect on how far we have come since 2018, but to prepare for what lies ahead. Because in a world where the landscape is shifting faster than ever, compliance will only grow in importance — and Bermuda, with your help, must continue to lead with both innovation and integrity.

Thank you.

Review your hurricane plans now, says Government

Alisa Bernardo
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Review your hurricane plans now, says Government

Residents urged to stay alert as Humberto remains a potential threat

Satellite image of Hurricane Humberto churning in the Atlantic from Zoom.Earth

Hurricane Humberto continues to strengthen in the Atlantic, with forecasters warning of hazardous conditions over the next few days and growing uncertainty due to the possible development of a second storm nearby.

As of the latest advisory, Humberto’s nearest forecast point within 72 hours is 169 nm to the NW at 2 am on Wednesday, October 1.

According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), Humberto is currently a Category 4 hurricane with maximum sustained winds near 150 mph (240 km/h) and higher gusts. Fluctuations in strength are possible, though the storm is expected to remain a dangerous major hurricane for the next couple of days. Hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 35 miles, while tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 140 miles.

Image from the Bermuda Weather Service

The Bermuda Weather Service (BWS) says Humberto is forecast to weaken to a Category 3 as it passes west of the island between Monday and Wednesday.

“Moderate to strong east-southeasterly winds are currently expected to veer southerly on Tuesday, further strengthening overnight, with the potential for near-tropical storm force winds (30-40 knots) and higher gusts (50-60 knots) in and around showers into Wednesday,” advised the BWS.

Dangerous marine conditions, including high surf and life-threatening rip currents are also expected.

Image from the Bermuda Weather Service

Forecasters caution that some uncertainty remains, as Tropical Storm Imelda is expected to form west of Humberto. The two systems could interact in a rare ‘Fujiwhara effect,’ which may alter the storm’s track and intensity.

The BWS continues to list Humberto as a potential threat to Bermuda and urges residents to closely monitor updates from both the BWS and the NHC.

In a post to its social media, Government advised the public that now is the time to review your plans and stay closely tuned to official updates.

For preparedness tips, visit: www.gov.bm/are-you-ready-hurricane-season .

Opinion: Dementia changes everything—but support changes it too 

Bermuda Broadcasting Newsdesk
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Opinion: Dementia changes everything—but support changes it too 

NAB Third Sector Spotlight: Dementia Bermuda

Images supplied

By Erica Fulton, Executive Director, Dementia Bermuda 

Dementia doesn’t just affect memory. It changes the way a person experiences the world, making everyday tasks harder, conversations more confusing and relationships more complicated. It affects not only the person living with it, but everyone around them. 

It’s not just “old age.” Dementia is caused by diseases of the brain, such as Alzheimer’s. It is progressive and incurable. Over time, it affects thinking, judgment, movement, behaviour and independence. And while we can’t stop the condition, we can change how people live with it—and how families cope. 

In Bermuda, around 3,000 people are currently living with dementia, and this number is expected to grow significantly as our population ages. Most are supported by family members who take on the role of caregiver—often without training, guidance or relief. In fact, more than 80% of care happens at home, typically provided by an elderly spouse or adult child. Two thirds are women. For many, it’s a 24/7 role that stretches on for years. 

It is exhausting and relentless, even when done with love. Caregivers manage everything from medication and meals to safety concerns and emotional support—while juggling jobs, children, or their own health issues. Many families tell us they feel unprepared, isolated or close to burnout. 

Yet the formal system isn’t set up to help. Long-term care beds are limited. Waitlists are long. And many lack staff trained in dementia care. Our hospital often holds patients with dementia for weeks —not because they need medical treatment, but because there’s no safe place for them to go. 

This is the quiet crisis behind closed doors in our community. 

But here’s what we want everyone to know: support can make a difference. 

At Dementia Bermuda, we provide accessible, community-based services for people with dementia and the families who care for them. This includes in-home clinical care, caregiver education, structured weekday activities and group therapy designed to help maintain cognitive function. 

Through our In-Home Occupational Therapy programme, we help families adapt routines, reduce safety risks and plan ahead. We meet people where they are—literally—and help them stay safely at home for as long as possible. 

Support matters not only for caregivers, but also for the person living with dementia. With the right strategies and structure in place, people can continue to do many of the things that bring meaning to their lives—whether that’s volunteering in their community, cooking a meal or spending time with loved ones. Life doesn’t end with a diagnosis. But planning and support are key. 

We won’t pretend that this journey is easy. Or that early support can erase the grief of watching someone change. But we do know that families who receive help feel more informed, less overwhelmed and better equipped to cope.  

This year, as part of World Alzheimer’s Month, we’re joining a global call to action: Ask About Dementia. Ask About Alzheimer’s. 

Start the conversation—with your family, your doctor, your community. Talk about what dementia really is. Talk about what kind of support people need. And if you or someone you love is facing dementia, know this: you are not alone. 

Learn more about the work we do at www.dementiabermuda.bm 

#AskAboutDementia #AskAboutAlzheimers 

This op-ed is part of the Third Sector Spotlight Series, a collective media campaign coordinated by the Nonprofit Alliance of Bermuda. This campaign aims to raise awareness of the value, impact and contributions of Bermuda’s nonprofit sector.

MP’s full statement on absentee voting

Bermuda Broadcasting Newsdesk
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MP’s full statement on absentee voting

Statement from Opposition MP Dwayne Robinson:

Today in the House of Assembly the One Bermuda Alliance tabled the Absentee Voting Act 2025, which gives Bermudians the right of absentee voting.

The lack of absentee voting is a long-known issue that prevents many Bermudians from exercising their hard-won right to vote. February’s election was a notable example, scheduled when most students studying overseas were at school. By selecting that date, the PLP Government denied numerous young Bermudians a voice in their country’s future. The irony is, these are exactly the Bermudians who we want to be more engaged.

This Opposition Bill forward by the One Bermuda Alliance ensures the right to vote for students and others who are ordinarily resident in Bermuda, but otherwise temporarily overseas. This includes those on work secondments or undergoing medical treatment.

The Government will claim it is “working on it”. But this bill from the OBA replaces empty promises with concrete action and laws guaranteeing the right for absentee voting. In effect, this bill starts the clock, so that absentee voting will be possible at Bermuda’s next election.

We recognize that there are multiple ways and technologies that can be used for absentee voting. That’s why this Bill leaves the details up to the experts at the Parliamentary Registrar, who will work with the relevant Minister on appropriate regulations.

By tabling this bill, the OBA is living up to one of its key election promises. We look forward to the Government supporting this bill, and living up to one of its own election promises.

FA Cup and League Round-up

Bermuda Broadcasting Newsdesk
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FA Cup and League Round-up

It was a busy day for Bermudian footballers across the UK

A busy day for Bermudian footballers across the UK

  • Nahki Wells helped Luton Town edge Doncaster Rovers 1-0 at Kenilworth Road, securing a crucial League One victory. Wells also won a penalty in the first half, though it was missed.
  • Reggie Lambe ensured Needham Market advanced in the FA Cup, defeating Witham Town 2-1.
  • Deniche Hill and Keziah Martin also progressed in the FA Cup, with Buxton FC winning a hard-fought 3-2 contest against Marine Football Club.
  • Ne-Jai Tucker and his Southport United team advanced to the Fourth Round of the FA Cup with a 3-1 victory over Morpeth Town.
  • Milan Butterfield’s Halesowen Town will face a replay after a goalless draw with Aveley in the FA Cup.
  • Harry Twite’s Loughborough Students FC claimed a narrow 1-0 win in league action.
  • Willie Clemons (Leiston FC), Justin Donawa (Brackley Town), and the Binfield trio of Coleridge Fubler Jr., Reese Jones Jr., and Aunde Todd all suffered defeats in their respective matches.

Help those struggling with depression

Bermuda Broadcasting Newsdesk
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Help those struggling with depression

Messages of Hope campaign will lead up to Mental Health Awareness Day

The Department of Health has launched its Messages of Hope digital campaign to mark Mental Health Awareness day on 10 October.

Running from 25 September to 19 October 2025, the campaign invites the public, schools, businesses, and community groups to create and share uplifting messages or advice- either illustrations, videos, text, or songs- that provide encouragement to those struggling with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, or suicidal thoughts.

The Hon. Kim Wilson, JP MP, Minister of Health explains: “The Messages of Hope campaign is about more than words, it’s about changing how we view mental health. By sharing encouragement, we reduce stigma, remind people they are not alone, and build a stronger, more compassionate Bermuda.”

Entries can be shared on Facebook and Instagram using #WeAreNotAnIsland and tagging @departmentofhealthbermuda. Four winners will be chosen in the categories of individual, school, business, and mental health organization, each receiving $250.00. If you post on behalf of an organization, please mention the organization in your post or tag them. The winning business will donate its prize to their mental health charity of choice. Winners will be announced at the end of October.

Minister Wilson added, “This initiative reflects the Government’s commitment, outlined in the 2025 Throne Speech, to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and improve how we engage with our community on such an important topic.”

Hurricane Humberto remains a potential threat

Alisa Bernardo
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Hurricane Humberto remains a potential threat

Storm forecast to pass within 125 miles, bringing rough seas and gale-force winds

Image: Bermuda Weather Service, 12 pm Sat, Sep 27

Hurricane Humberto is being closely monitored, with forecasters warning of strong winds and hazardous seas in the days ahead.

The Category 4 hurricane currently has maximum sustained winds near 145 mph (230 km/h), with hurricane-force winds extending 25 miles from the center. The storm is expected to remain a major hurricane through the next several days.

The Bermuda Weather Service (BWS) said Humberto is forecast to pass to the island’s distant southwest on Monday before tracking northwest, coming within 100–125 nautical miles of Bermuda by Wednesday. At that time, Humberto is expected to weaken slightly to a Category 3, bringing gale-force winds, tropical-storm-force gusts, and bands of showers and thunderstorms. Rainfall of 1–3 inches is possible.

Rough seas and hazardous surf along the South Shore are expected from Sunday night.

As of the latest advisory, Humberto’s nearest forecast point within 72 hours is 152 nautical miles WSW of Bermuda at noon Tuesday, September 30.

Forecasters caution that some uncertainty remains, as Humberto could interact with potential Tropical Depression Nine in a rare ‘Fujiwhara effect,’ which may alter the storm’s track and intensity.

The public is urged to follow official updates from the BWS and the National Hurricane Centre.

Government reaffirms commitment to electoral reform

Bermuda Broadcasting Newsdesk
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Government reaffirms commitment to electoral reform

Ministry says absentee voting plan will be shaped by Bermudians through public consultation

The Ministry for Cabinet Office and Digital Innovation issued the following statement.

The Government remains fully committed to delivering comprehensive electoral reform, including the introduction of absentee voting, as promised to the people of Bermuda.

Any reform of this importance must be shaped by the people’s voices and guided by a thorough public consultation process, as outlined in the Throne Speech, which set the stage “for the commencement of a fulsome consultative process.”

Electoral reform is a cornerstone of our democracy’s evolution, and it will not be approached lightly or behind closed doors.

In contrast, the Opposition’s recent decision to table an “Absentee Voting Act 2025” without prior public consultation or a clear implementation plan is disappointing. Such a unilateral move, introduced with scant detail and no stakeholder input, risks imposing changes on Bermudians rather than working with them.

Something as critical as modernising our voting system should never be reduced to partisan point-scoring or rushed legislation. Electoral reform is simply too significant to be treated as a political football.

As the ministry responsible for electoral reform, we will continue moving forward with a transparent, adequately funded, and well-planned process to implement absentee voting by the next General Election.

Preparatory work is already underway, with targeted research and data collection efforts commencing this year to support the drafting of legislation. The aim is to have the necessary framework in place by September 2026. In the coming months, we will assemble consultative committees to ensure Bermudians’ input is at the heart of this initiative. The Government remains committed to an electoral reform process built with Bermudians and for Bermudians, one that strengthens our democracy and maintains public trust.

New features aim to heighten visitor experience at golf event

Bermuda Broadcasting Newsdesk
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New features aim to heighten visitor experience at golf event

The Butterfield Bermuda Championship returns to Port Royal in November

The Butterfield Bermuda Championship returns this November with exciting new experiences from Butterfield and Mastercard designed to further enhance this year’s tournament for all spectators. 

The new Butterfield x Mastercard Ocean Club will offer one of the best views on the course over the signature 16th hole in a stylish and exclusive setting. Tickets are available to purchase on the official tournament website for $275 with all-inclusive beverage and light hors d’oeuvres included with each ticket. 

Butterfield Mastercard credit and debit cardholders will also have an opportunity to win daily prizes in the lead-up to tournament week. From the 2nd of September to the 20th of October, every purchase of $20 USD or more will automatically enter into a draw for a $100 USD Amazon gift card, awarded daily. Plus, each eligible transaction is an opportunity to win a Priceless® Experience, featuring an unforgettable stay at the iconic Hamilton Princess Hotel and exclusive access to the tournament.

On Friday, 14th of November, in honour of the Bermudian players who qualified to play in the tournament, Butterfield and Mastercard will be hosting a special Happy Hour with the players and local Butterfield Mastercard cardholders to do a meet and greet while guests enjoy signature cocktails, small plates, and a chance to hear more about the players’ experiences at The Astwood Arms.

Danielle Carrera, tournament director of the Butterfield Bermuda Championship said “Now in its seventh year, the Butterfield Bermuda Championship continues to grow, and we are always keen to build on its success every year. Together with our generous partners at Butterfield and Mastercard, we are delighted to once again be able to offer our fans new experiences designed to make the tournament even more enjoyable and accessible. We encourage everyone to get their tickets early and to take advantage of everything that’s on offer.”

Event spectators can also look forward to the return of fan favourite zones from previous years:

  • Public Seating Area on the 18th hole – Open to all spectators, offering excellent course views and a relaxed environment to take in the action.
  • Family Zone – A welcoming, family-friendly space with interactive games and activities for younger fans, plus a complimentary specialty coffee station and multiple food trucks offering a variety of flavours.
  • Autograph Alley – Your chance for kids and adults to meet and collect signatures from PGA TOUR professionals after their rounds.

The Butterfield Bermuda Championship, an official PGA TOUR event, will be held at the scenic Port Royal Golf Course from November 13-16, 2025, welcoming elite golfers from around the world and bringing world-class sport to the island. Tickets are available at the official tournament website: www.butterfieldbdachampionship.shop. 

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About Butterfield Bermuda Championship

The Butterfield Bermuda Championship, Bermuda’s first-ever PGA TOUR event, is an annual stop on the PGA TOUR calendar each fall. The 2025 tournament will take place November 13-16 at Port Royal Golf Course in Southampton, Bermuda, and the field will feature three local Bermudians. This official FedEx Cup event will showcase Bermuda to its worldwide spectators with live broadcasting brought to you by Golf Channel. For more information on the Butterfield Bermuda Championship, please visit butterfieldbdachampionship.com. Follow and subscribe to our social media channels for live news, updates, and event information. 

About Butterfield 

Butterfield is a full-service bank and wealth manager headquartered in Hamilton, Bermuda, providing services to clients from Bermuda, the Cayman Islands, Guernsey, and Jersey, where our principal banking operations are located, and The Bahamas, Switzerland, Singapore, and the United Kingdom, where we offer specialized financial services. Banking services comprise deposit, cash management, and lending solutions for individual, business, and institutional clients. Wealth management services are composed of trust, private banking, asset management, and custody. In Bermuda, the Cayman Islands, and Guernsey, we offer both banking and wealth management. In The Bahamas, Singapore, and Switzerland, we offer select wealth management services. In the UK, we offer residential property lending. In Jersey, we offer select banking and wealth management services. Butterfield is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange (symbol: NTB) and the Bermuda Stock Exchange (symbol: NTB.BH). Further details can be obtained from our website at: www.butterfieldgroup.com. 

About Bermuda Tourism Authority

About Bermuda Tourism Authority (BTA) The Bermuda Tourism Authority (BTA) is an award-winning, accredited destination marketing organization that promotes Bermuda internationally and works to empower our tourism industry stakeholders. Explore Bermuda’s National Tourism Plan at BermudaNTP.com.

About PGA TOUR 

By showcasing golf’s greatest players, the PGA TOUR engages, inspires, and positively impacts our fans, partners, and communities worldwide.  The PGA TOUR, headquartered in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, co-sanctions tournaments on the PGA TOUR, PGA TOUR Champions, Korn Ferry Tour, PGA TOUR Latinoamérica, Oct 27-30, 2022 Port Royal Golf Course Southampton, Bermuda Mackenzie Tour-PGA TOUR Canada and PGA TOUR Series-China. Members on the PGA TOUR represent the world’s best players, hailing from 29 countries and territories (94 members are from outside the United States). Worldwide, PGA TOUR tournaments are broadcast to 216 countries and territories in 28 languages. Virtually all tournaments are organized as non-profit organizations to maximize charitable giving, and to date, tournaments across all Tours have generated more than $3.2 billion. Fans can follow the PGA TOUR on PGATOUR.COM, the No. 1 site in golf, on the PGA TOUR app, and social media channels, including Facebook, Instagram (in English, Spanish, and Korean), LinkedIn, Twitter, WeChat, Weibo, Toutiao, and Douyin. 

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