Bermuda’s athletes in spotlight both locally and overseas
Bermuda scores another big win at the ICC T20 World Cup Americas Qualifiers in Canada, while sprinter Miles Outerbridge continues to make waves on the U.S. national stage.
A heads-up up for motorists
Paving work to continue in St George’s
Press release:
The Ministry of Public Works and Environment wishes to remind the public that paving work along Mullet Bay Road, St George’s, will continue this weekend, from Friday, 20 June, through Sunday, 22 June, between 7:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. daily.
Motorists travelling through the construction zone — particularly near the bends adjacent to Mullet Bay Park — are urged to slow down and drive cautiously. The roadway will narrow in sections, increasing the risk to workers on site as vehicles pass.
Police patrols will monitor traffic throughout the weekend to help ensure public and worker safety. The Ministry thanks all road users for their patience and cooperation as this crucial work continues.
Bermuda’s Premier Craft-Beer Festival Returns for a Two-Day Celebration
Bermuda’s premier craft‑beer festival kicks off today and continues through Saturday at the National Stadium’s North Field.
The two‑day celebration features international craft beers, live music, delicious food, engaging games, and family‑friendly entertainment.
Co‑founders Cameron Madeiros and Freddy Phillips of Bermuda Craft Brewing have curated the lineup, while reporter Kendal Trott was on-site earlier to preview what festival-goers can expect.
Bermuda Tonight – 20 June 2025
In tonight’s news at 7pm…
- Nearly 30,000 visits to hospital emergency dept. over 12-month period
- Peace protest calls for ceasefire in Gaza
- Youth mental health plan in the works
- NFL quarterbacks host training session in Bermuda
Celebrity chef was “passionate supporter of Bermuda”
Tourism Minister responds to the passing of Chef Anne Burrell
Statement from Owen Darrell, Minister of Tourism, Transport, Culture and Sport
It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the sudden passing of celebrity chef and beloved Bermuda advocate, Anne Burrell. On behalf of the Government of Bermuda and the Ministry of Tourism & Transport, Culture & Sport, I extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends, and countless fans around the world.
Chef Anne was more than a culinary icon; she was a passionate supporter of Bermuda and a dear friend to many within our community. Her warmth, energy, and unmistakable enthusiasm left a lasting impression on all who had the pleasure of meeting her.
Her contributions to Bermuda’s culinary landscape were truly significant. In collaboration with the Corporation of Hamilton and the Bermuda Tourism Authority, Chef Anne played a vital role in elevating the Taste of Bermuda experience, helping to showcase our island’s unique culinary heritage on an international stage. She also shared her time and expertise with the next generation of Bermudian chefs, offering encouragement and insight to students at Bermuda College, a gesture that meant the world to them.
Anne’s deep affection for Bermuda was evident in her continued visits and her genuine connection with our people. Her spirit, talent, and generosity will not be forgotten.
We are grateful for all she gave to Bermuda, and we honour her legacy with sincere appreciation.
Dispatcher: Illegal taxi operations undermine industry
Central Dispatch says lack of effective regulation and enforcement has fractured industry
Media comments from a spokesperson for Central Dispatch Ltd:
“Central Dispatch Ltd was established through a united effort between the former BTOA Executive and the three original legally recognized dispatching companies: BTA Dispatching, Co-op, and Bermuda Island Taxi. After extensive discussions and with industry-wide consensus, it was agreed that a centralized dispatching solution was essential to preserving and modernizing the taxi industry in Bermuda.”
“As a result, Central Dispatch Ltd was created to unify services, raise standards, and meet increasing customer demand using advanced technology. A recommendation from the most recent and past Transportation Green papers. We have met and are in full compliance with all Government, TCD and Public Service vehicle Licensing Board suggestions and regulations.”
“However, it is important to highlight one of the key challenges facing our industry: the rise of unauthorized and illegal dispatching. For years, various entities have operated outside the legal framework—using apps, WhatsApp, Telegram groups, emails, and other informal methods to assign jobs. This undermines the integrity of the industry, pulls legally signed-up drivers away from their dispatch companies, and violates the Motor Car Act.”
“The Act clearly states that drivers must be dispatched by a licensed dispatching company and must use the required radio and GPS systems. Noncompliance is subject to a $1,400 daily fine, yet enforcement remains lacking. These illegal operations allow drivers to cherry-pick jobs, ignoring others, making it extremely difficult to offer fair and reliable service to customers in real time.”
“The result is a fragmented industry, where more platforms continue to pull from the same limited pool of drivers, compounding inefficiencies and delays.”
“The true issue lies in the lack of effective regulation from the relevant authorities. Without proper enforcement of existing laws and clear policy direction, the disorganization will persist—ultimately harming the public and the very drivers we aim to support.”
Opinion: Our transport services are fractured
OBA seeks amendments to the Motor Car Act
Dwayne Robinson: “There seems to be no real movement to assist the [taxi] industry.”
Statement by Shadow Transport Minister Dwayne Robinson:
When is the Transport Minister going to address the concerns of the transportation stakeholders and the public who use their services?
It is clear the industry needs updated legislation and Ministerial collaboration to help navigate the challenges they face. Our transport services remain fractured, and it is the customers who are paying the price.
I have received numerous complaints from transport stakeholders regarding alleged instances of dispatching of taxis from unlicensed entities.
This leads to multiple taxis going to one job and arriving to find the customer already picked up.
The demand is outstripping the supply. Instances like these are costly when people are already competing for taxis.
Many hotels have had to invest in their own transport to attempt to supplement the lack of availability. Tourists and locals being left for hours with no taxis.
The Bermuda Taxi Owners and Operators Association (BTOA) has recommended issuing more temporary and full taxi permits. It’s clear that more taxis are needed to meet the demand. Why hasn’t the Minister taken this on or provided an alternative solution?
There seems to be a lack of enforcement from traffic officers on transport policy and regulation, with many in the industry citing lack of enforcement and responsiveness from TCD on reported breaches of the Motor Car Act 1951. The industry seems to have been left to cannibalize itself with mini-buses and limos fitting in where they can get in.
During the recent Budget debate, The Minister of Tourism Transport Culture and Sport stated the Motor Car Act is being looked at. When will we see any meaningful amendments?
With no movement on the suggested ways to improve the taxi industry put forward by the BTOA or any concrete updates on Ride Sharing there seems to be no real movement to assist the industry.
The Minister needs to investigate where the potential breakdown in enforcement is with TCD and where he can provide the support if necessary. It’s also his responsibility to examine any breaches of the law, and if is this indeed true, rectify them.
I urge Minister Darrell to meet with stakeholders to bring forward amendments to the Motor Car Act will properly address their concerns. I implore the Minister to engage TCD to work with current dispatchers to forge a way forward that benefits all stakeholders in the industry.
A deep dive into the history of rum
Kanhai Woolride, the founder of Bermuda Rum Com, has shared exciting details about his upcoming rum-tasting experience and historical tour.
With more than a decade in the hospitality industry, Mr Woolride hopes to inspire local bartenders and professionals to come out and learn more on June 28th at 9:30am at Bonefish Bar & Grill in Dockyard.
In an interview with Kendal Trott, Mr Woolride explained that the event aims to bring locals and tourists together to appreciate Bermuda’s rich rum culture and fascinating history.
Outerbridge Shines on US National Stage
Sprinter books his sport in the 100m boys championship finals in Philadelphia
Bermudian sprinting sensation Miles Outerbridge continues to garner significant recognition, having been named to the prestigious 2025 MileSplit Florida All-City Track & Field Team. This latest accolade comes just as Outerbridge takes to the national stage, competing at the prestigious New Balance Nationals Outdoor 2025 Championships at Franklin Field, University of Pennsylvania. In a superb showing in the Championship Boys’ 100m, Outerbridge dominated Heat 6, clocking an impressive 10.39 seconds. This blistering time secured him the fifth fastest qualifying spot for the semi-finals, demonstrating his elite speed against the nation’s best.
Not content with just a heat win, Outerbridge then returned to the track for the Championship Boys’ 100m Semi-Final, where he once again demonstrated his exceptional form and composure under pressure. He posted a time of 10.44 seconds, successfully advancing to the much-anticipated final. All eyes will now be on the talented Bermudian as he vies for a national title, building on a season that has firmly established him as a rising star in track and field.
Cricket To Make Historic Pan Am Debut
Bermuda sets sights on 2027 Pan Am Games in Lima, Peru
Bermudian athletes and National Sports Governing Bodies now have a clear target in sight, with just over two years remaining until the XX Pan American Games in Lima, Peru. Following an Executive Board meeting, Panam Sports has officially confirmed the 36 sports that will feature in the prestigious continental event, providing a definitive roadmap for Bermuda’s preparations.
In a landmark decision, cricket will be part of the Pan American Games for the first time in history. This is a significant development for cricket-playing nations across the Americas, including Bermuda, as this historic inclusion opens a new avenue for Bermudian cricketers to compete on a major multi-sport stage.
With precisely 758 days remaining until the opening ceremony of the Americas’ most significant sporting festival, the comprehensive sports programme for Lima 2027 has been finalised. The decision, made by the Panam Sports Executive Board, carefully considered the preferences of all 41 National Olympic Committees members of the Organization. Notably, 33 sports were selected based on these preferences, with an additional three chosen by the Lima 2027 Organising Committee.
“As Panam Sports, we have taken a very important step with the approval of the 36 sports for Lima 2027,” stated Panam Sports President, Neven Ilic. “We followed a very democratic process among all the National Olympic Committees, and today, the Executive Board has confirmed the sports of the Program of our Pan American Games.”
Bermuda’s national sports federations will now intensify their efforts, identifying and preparing athletes who will aim to qualify and proudly represent the island at what promises to be a thrilling Pan American Games in Lima.
Minister Hayward attends Canadian Blockchain Consortium Policy Summit
Summit featured over 150 global leaders, including ministers, regulators, and innovators
Government update via press release:
The Honourable Jason P. Hayward, JP, MP, Minister of Economy and Labour, participated in two high-level panels at the 2nd Annual Canadian Blockchain Consortium Policy Summit, held at the National Gallery of Canada on June 19, 2025.
The summit brought together over 150 global leaders, including ministers, regulators, and innovators, to explore the evolving digital asset landscape. Minister Hayward contributed to two sessions:
1. Session 2: Global Digital Asset Policy Leadership
Moderated by Koleya Karringten, this panel featured Michelle Rempel Garner (MP, Canada), Juan Carlos Reyes (President, El Salvador’s Digital Assets Commission), and Minister Hayward. Discussions explored national strategies for adopting blockchain, energy innovation, and the competitiveness of fintech ecosystems on a global scale.
2. Session 3: Building Commonwealth Bridges – Regulatory Lessons Between Bermuda and Canada
Moderated by Kerem Kolcuoglu of Penrose Partners, this session examined Bermuda’s regulatory framework under the Digital Asset Business Act (DABA), highlighting its success in attracting responsible innovation. Minister Hayward was joined by Aqsa Zubair (BMA), Alexander Vronces (Fintechs Canada), and Jeffrey Baron (Coinbase Bermuda).
Minister Hayward emphasised Bermuda’s value proposition as a jurisdiction of choice for digital asset enterprises, emphasising the importance of regulatory clarity, cross-border collaboration, and inclusive innovation.
The summit also featured a screening of the documentary “Dirty Coin” and a black-tie gala celebrating leadership in blockchain policy.
Celebrating 50 years of pastoral leadership
The 50th Pastoral Anniversary of Bishop Vernon G. Lambe Sr. and Elder Ruth Ann Lambe
Update via press release:
Honoring Bishop Vernon G. Lambe Sr. & Elder Ruth Ann Lambe
Hamilton, Bermuda – June 17, 2025
The Bermuda Christian community and the wider public are warmly invited to celebrate a momentous milestone:
The 50th Pastoral Anniversary of Bishop Vernon G. Lambe Sr. and Elder Ruth Ann Lambe.
This faithful and visionary couple has led the First Church of God for five decades, transforming lives, building
communities, and inspiring generations through ministry, education, and civic engagement.
Celebration Schedule of Events
The Man & Woman of the Cloth – A Skit
Date: Saturday, June 21, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM (Doors open at 5:00 PM)
Location: First Church of God, North Shore
Adapted from The Man of the Cloth, written by Elder Ruth Ann Lambe, this dramatization brings to life the Lambes’
journey of faith and service.
Admission: Free
Bowties & Brims Celebration Brunch
Date: Saturday, July 5, 2025
Time: 10:30 AM
Location: Hamilton Princess & Beach Club
Tickets: $100 – General Admission; $150 – Patron; $200 – Gold Patron
A formal brunch honoring Bishop and Elder Lambe, including a live interview with the honorees.
Tickets available at the First Church of God bookstore or church office.
Unity Service
Date: Sunday, July 6, 2025
Time: 11:00 AMLocation: First Church of God, North Shore
Join the Angle Street, Sound View, and North Shore congregations in a powerful worship service.
Message by: Pastor Michael Smellie
Celebration Service
Date: Sunday, July 6, 2025
Time: 5:00 PM
Location: First Church of God, North Shore
A formal gathering of political, religious, and civic leaders to honor the enduring contributions of Bishop Vernon
and Elder Ruth Ann Lambe.
Message by: Pastor Michael Smellie
“Fifty years of pastoral service is a rare and sacred milestone,” Said Anthony Richardson, Chair of the First Church
of God Board of Directors. “Bishop and Elder Lambe have not only shepherded a church—they’ve helped shape a
nation.”
All Are Welcome
Former congregants, ministry partners, civic leaders, and friends from around the world are encouraged to attend.
For more information: Call: 441-295-6080 Email: info@fcog.bm
Let us honor two remarkable leaders as we reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and look forward to the
legacy they continue to build.
About the Honorees
Bishop Vernon G. Lambe Sr., a son of the soil, has led First Church of God for 50 years with visionary, passionate
ministry.
Elder Ruth Ann Lambe, his life and ministry partner, has been a guiding force through her compassion, grace, and
unwavering faith. Together, they have shaped lives and communities through spiritual leadership, education,
mentorship, and outreach.
