“The DOC has recently changed the Insurance coverage for inmates,”said Minister Wilson speaking in the Senate today [May 16]. “This was preceded by an analysis of the cost of insurance versus the actual amounts claimed.”

“The result is that instead of insuring every inmate with HIP, DOC insures approximately 40 inmates who have qualified for insurance (i.e. those with long-term illness such as diabetes).

“The costs of medical attention for the remaining inmates will be paid on a case-by-case basis as incurred. On the basis of past claims, it is anticipated that with this change Government will save between $200,000 and $300,000 during this budget year.”

Minister Wilson went on to say that another area in which they intend to cut costs is by charging inmates for secondary issue of clothing and footwear.

“Upon reception, inmates are issued with underwear, prison clothes and running shoes. It is being proposed that any subsequent issue of such articles will be charged against the inmate’s canteen account,” Minister Wilson continued.

Minister Wilson also spoke about the ‘work release’ programme, saying earnings are kept in an account and are given to the inmate when they are released.

“A little over a year ago, the DOC and the Department of Works and Engineering (W&E) entered into an arrangement whereby inmates soon to be released, or soon after being released, were hired by W & E in full-time employment,” said Minster Wilson.

“The aim of this programme was to provide released inmates with meaningful and long-term employment. Owing to budget cuts, this programme has recently been temporarily suspended however a similar programme is in the advanced stages of development and will continue to provide meaningful and long-term employment to our inmates soon to be released.”

“Almost four years ago, an agreement was reached with the West End Development Corporation (WEDCo) to employ three carefully selected inmates from Westgate to provide low-level maintenance work on WEDCo properties in Dockyard.

“Inmates selected for this programme earn $5.00 per hour, as opposed to the $1.50 per day if they were in Westgate. Monies earned go into an account for the inmate, who may access the funds only by permission of the Commissioner.

“These funds are typically used to help support the family of the inmate for such things as school fees and other family-related expenses. Despite a hue and outcry from various quarters at the outset, this programme has been a huge success and one that has benefited the DOC, WEDCo and the families of inmates. The programme has been so successful that as a result two former inmates are now full-time employees of WEDCo.”

“The cumulative effect of these measures is that they afford the opportunity to directly cut costs by allowing inmates to earn money toward their upkeep,” said Minister Wilson.

Minister Wilson’s full statement from the Senate follows below:

-

Dame Jennifer presently holds the seat having won 51.35% of the vote vs the UBP’s Kenneth Bascome [474-449] in the 2007 General Election. The OBA has not confirmed their candidate for the area at this time.

A number of people were present at the rollout including Premier Paula Cox and husband Germain Nkeuleu, PLP MP Walter Roban, former National Security Minister and Warwick North Central PLP candidate Lt/Col David Burch, former press secretary Jamahl Simmons, Smith’s South PLP candidate Linda Merritt, lawyer Elizabeth Christopher, and Paget East PLP candidate Dawn Simmons.

The PLP has now rolled out 33 of their 36 candidates, with their representatives for C#14 Devonshire North West, C#12 Devonshire South Central, and C#4 St. George’s South yet to be announced.

This was alleged to have happened on 1st May 2012, and the Prosecutor said that Police had apprehended Daeshon Warner on 15th May. Warner pleaded not guilty.

The Senior Magistrate ordered that Warner must re-appear for Mention on 30th May 2012 and ordered him kept in custody at the COED facility until that date.

Daeshon Warner’s mother was present in Court and he was not defended by legal counsel.

Premier Cox is pictured below with the successful vendors of Government’s vehicle tyre contract – from L to R are Vic Ball, Procurement Officer, Sheldon Robinson of Discount Tyre & Wheel; Ashmead Ali of Affordable Tyre and Joe Ponte of Bermuda Tyre Company.

The three suppliers will be supplying tyres to the Bermuda Police Service, the Public Transport Board, the Bermuda Fire Service and Public Works which are also responsible for servicing the remaining Government vehicles.

The Premier’s full statement follows below:

Good afternoon,

I am pleased to provide you today with a success story achieved by the Office of Project Management and Procurement [OPMP] in relation to the tendering and awarding of Government contracts.

You will remember that in my press conference of 16thJanuary 2012, I stated that the Office of Project Management and Procurement was evaluating contracts for goods and/or services which are common across all government departments, such as paper, vehicle tyres and maintenance, toner.

This is an area where the Government can effect changes to benefit a greater number of suppliers, yet also ensure that the Government and the quangos get best value for money.

The first major contract that was reviewed was the purchase of tyres for Government vehicles. The OPMP found a disparity in the prices charged to different Government departments over a period of time. It should be noted that this problem is not unique to the Bermuda Government.

A similar discovery was made by Sir Philip Green in October 2010 in an Efficiency Review of Government Spending in the United Kingdom where he concluded that “The [UK] Government is failing to leverage both its credit rating and its scale”; and that “basic commodities are bought at significantly different prices across Government departments.”Our approach to this issue is to provide the OPMP with the authority to address this problem with the urgency that it deserves.

The mandate of the OPMP is to be much more proactive in reaching out to companies that may be eligible to submit a tender to ensure that they are aware of the publication of the tender; and their objective was achieved with this tender.

I am pleased to announce that we have awarded the tyre contract valued at just over a million dollars to three vendors. I would like to introduce you to the managers of each company: Mr. Sheldon Robinson and Mrs. Kim Foggo of Discount Tyre & Wheel; Mr. Ashmead Ali of Affordable Tyre and Mr. Joe Ponte of Bermuda Tyre Company.

The three suppliers will be supplying tyres to the Bermuda Police Service, the Public Transport Board, the Bermuda Fire Service and Public Works which are also responsible for servicing the remaining Government vehicles.

This was the sentence handed out by Senior Magistrate Archie Warner this morning [May 16] after he had read and reviewed a psychiatric report on Williams. The pre-sentencing report had been requested at Williams earlier hearing when Williams had pleaded guilty to smashing the ATM which was at White’s Supermarket in Warwick.

Commenting from the report, the Magistrate said that the report confirmed that Williams had a mental disorder, and that several times, Williams had been in and out of MAWI for treatment.

The report’s diagnosis was that Williams had a cocaine induced psychosis and was schizophrenic. Continuing, the Magistrate said that the report indicated that Williams’ condition could be managed by using appropriate medication but that Williams refused to regularly take prescribed and available medication.

The Magistrate told Williams: “If you medicate as ordered, you should be alright. You have been in Westgate for the past few days and you have been doing alright. You know you have a psychiatric problem but you refuse to accept help for it.”

The Magistrate then sentenced Williams to nine months in prison.  The Magistrate also made an order that Westgate  should give Williams all available mental health treatment and should enter him in programs while he was in custody.

The fund will assist retraining Bermudians seeking employment in a particular professional designation and retraining individuals who may already be employed but who lack the resources to pursue a specific professional designation in their field.

Minister Minors said, “The public will recall that Bermuda’s most recent Census results counted 2,581 persons unemployed, with the Island’s official unemployment rate standing at 6%.

“This fund will be used to address a specific need and will target a specific segment of our workforce – that is, those professional persons with experience in knowledge-based sectors who need to become certified in key areas, as well as recent college graduates who need to specialize through the certification process.

“Our aim is to assist these persons to become more marketable, reinventing themselves in accordance with the needs of the economy.”

Minister Minors went on to say, “It is envisaged that the first programme for which scholarships will be provided is in the area of Accounting certification. Work has already commenced to define the criteria for entry into programmes for specific Accounting designations including the CPA, CMA, and ACCA.”

Minister Minors’ full remarks follow below:

Good morning everyone,

I am very pleased to be joined by the Minister of Education, the Hon. Dame Jennifer Smith and the President of the Bermuda College, Dr. Duranda Greene on the eve of the Bermuda College’s Commencement ceremony.

Ladies and gentlemen it’s fitting that they are here today, because I am delighted to announce that the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry will be establishing a $500,000 Retraining Scholarship Fund at the Bermuda College to assist in:

• Retraining Bermudians seeking employment in a particular professional designation; and
• To assist in retraining individuals who may already be employed but who lack the resources to pursue a specific professional designation in their field.

But I want to be clear – this isn’t just any scholarship.

This fund will be used to address a specific need and will target a specific segment of our workforce – that is, those professional persons with experience in knowledge-based sectors who need to become certified in key areas, as well as recent college graduates who need to specialize through the certification process. Our aim is to assist these persons to become more marketable, reinventing themselves in accordance with the needs of the economy.

The public will recall that Bermuda’s most recent Census results counted 2,581 persons unemployed, with the Island’s official unemployment rate standing at 6%. And we at the Ministry have worked tirelessly in the last couple of years to address our unemployment concerns by implementing numerous initiatives to increase employment opportunities for Bermudians.

Under the auspices of the Department of Labour and Training we have dedicated considerable efforts to ensuring that those Bermudians who needed it were given the assistance to acquire those basic job skills to enter the workplace.

However it is clear that this economic downturn has been indiscriminate. It has affected all sectors of our workforce, large and small businesses; professional and blue collar workers. And what we recognise is that there are different levels of unemployment that need to be addressed.

Hence the introduction of the Re-Training Scholarship Fund.

Ladies and gentlemen, a critical component in our economic recovery plan is to increase the opportunities of developing our workforce by re-training Bermudians. As part of the Government’s Workforce Development Strategy, the Department has identified a need for training in the following areas of occupation.

These include, but are not limited to:

• Accounting
• Information Technology
• Secondary Education; and
• Other key areas within International Business

Quite simply, this is about providing support for those in knowledge based professions.

This is about assisting those Bermudians who have experience, but who have had trouble getting back into the industry because of the downturn in the economy.

Therefore, the new Bermuda College Re-training Scholarship Fund will be used to support the cost of re-training already experienced individuals so they can become certified in key areas.

As we move forward with the implementation of this initiative, the Department of Labour and Training will partner with the Bermuda College, who will be the provider of education and training.

Under the guidelines of this new partnership, the department and the college will work strategically in developing, accessing and funding educational programming that supports the social and economic policies of the Government. And the College will work collaboratively with the Department and relevant industry representatives to identify appropriate professional certifications to meet the needs of the job market.

It is envisaged that the first programme for which scholarships will be provided is in the area of Accounting certification. Work has already commenced to define the criteria for entry into programmes for specific Accounting designations including the CPA, CMA, and ACCA.

Consultation with industry stakeholders is planned as a part of the programme development.

The community can expect to learn more about the criteria associated with the Re-training Scholarship Fund as well as eligibility in the months ahead.

Ladies and gentlemen, I am of the view that we must take a holistic approach to getting Bermudians back to work. And we must employ a range of strategies in this endeavor.

One of our key focuses is buoying our training and development resources, and today I am very proud that we are able to partner with the Bermuda College to realise this goal.

Dr. Greene, before I invite you to say a few words, I’d like to present you with this check for $500,000 to fund the Re-training Scholarship Programme.

Thank you.

PlayList Management, is conducting their annual Developing Artist Program [DAP] which offers student musicians/artists the chance to work alongside professional musical artists, producers, and the like for a full week in Atlanta, GA.

“Many of Bermuda’s young musicians are unfamiliar with the “behind the scene” aspect of the music industry. PLM provides an opportunity for our budding musicians to be exposed to the inner workings of all aspects of this profession long before they reach the critical point of a career decision.”

“Most musicians only see the performance aspect and don’t realize the amount of energy it takes to make their performance successful,” stated Theresa Minors, CEO of PlayList Management. “We are excited about being able to provide them with the chance to work alongside professional artists who have dedicated their lives to their craft.

“We have organized for the students to receive instruction at Lion’s Share Cre8tiv, Atlanta’s #1 artist development company as well as gain knowledge from professional producers, managers, independent labels, and entertainment lawyers.

“This intensive covers types of industry contracts, music production knowledge, networking opportunities and experience with various recording studios and producers in the Atlanta area. This is an exciting opportunity for our students.”

Their schedule is jammed packed with vocal/music instruction, production sessions, and even a special artist “Q&A” session. Last year, the students had the opportunity to sit and chat with Director/Actor/Producer Tommy Ford from TV’s Martin fame [pictured above].

This year, the community is encouraged to be part of their experience – an online blog has been created to share their daily activities. The students will share their thoughts, videos, pictures and more for all to see.

Additionally, PLM is encouraging individuals, as well as companies, who may wish to help sponsor a student to contact Mr. D Minors at pr.playlistmanagement@gmail.com. All funds received are marked for that specific student and their instructional cost only.

The students this year are:

Berkeley Institute

• Jeron Clemendor (Percussion)
• Malaiyah Jackson (Vocals)
• Chinyere Nwasike (Vocals)
• Chiante Roberts (Vocals/keys)
• Delijah Symonds (Vocals)

Warwick Academy

• Justice Edness (Vocals)
• Dylan Hollis (Keys)
• Emma Keane (Vocals/guitar)

Home School/Other

• Jahroy Richards (Rap)
• Additional student – Shomari Warner (Producer)

The two artists, signed with Spotlight Talent Agency, will spend quality time at the Rehearsal Factory preparing to perform at popular downtown venue called Lambadina Lounge on Wednesday. They will perform on Friday May 18th at the same venue.

While in Toronto, Kombat and Mariore will also record music at Scarlet Sky Studio and work with film company, Flashfilment, to produce a promotional video for Kombat’s song, Astronauts, which has been played locally on Hott 1075 and Power 95. You may visit their website to learn more about the film company.

Ms Richardson said: “After my life experiences I’ve learned that with every situation, whether negative or positive, there is a significant purpose behind it…you just have to allow yourself to see beyond the actual event to not miss the lesson or opportunity attached to it”.

The 32 year old, divorced mother of 3 didn’t see the opportunity of entrepreneurship immediately. “Within a week of being unemployed I was actively seeking other jobs, it wasn’t until one day it hit me that my personal circumstances would make the job hunt even more difficult than what the average person is experiencing these days.”

Flexibility, which most desire in a career, was more a necessity for Ms Richardson. “As a mother of a two, eleven and thirteen year old I had the typical struggle of any responsible parent of working and having to take time out for your kids’ doctor appointments, sports days, sick days, etc. on top of that my eldest who has severe cerebral palsy had extensive needs and is often home sick or in the hospital locally or overseas.

“I myself had brain surgery overeats in 2006 and 2008 as a result of a chronic illness and found myself on bed rest periodically. My former employer was very understanding. I also had a great deal of appreciation for them and worked from home the majority of the times I was out of the office, including while overseas for my daughter or myself.

“Turning up at work even when it was physically ailing was not uncommon for me so I knew I could find a new job and as usual put my needs on the back burner, however, my daughter’s situation isn’t changing and I knew that in this economic climate finding a job, let alone one that would accept the chance that I may be called out to her within months or even days of starting.

“With all of this in mind I started thinking of ways that I could earn a living, utilize my skills and still maintain the flexibility for the needs of all three children, and Panacea Virtual Administration was born.”

“The word Panacea, which is also the name of the Greek goddess of Universal remedy, is used in modern English as a remedy claimed to be curative of all problems or disorders or a cure-all. As described in our tagline our aim is to be “your Panacea…the solution to every problem.”

Panacea Virtual Administration provides Virtual Assistance, Concierge & Administration services to all facets of the community including individuals, small and large businesses and service providers, charities, churches, sports clubs, promoters and overseas visitors.

By taking care of the tasks that businesses may have lacked the human or financial resources to undertake, took up too much time of the self employed business owner or was simply neglected, Panacea VA enables its clients to focus on growing their business while getting things done quickly, cheaply and accurately while still maintaining or improving their professional look and feel.

“The need is out there but many fear that they can’t afford the service of a Virtual Assistant. However, a Virtual Assistant [VA] is generally self-employed and provides professional administrative, technical, or creative assistance to clients from a home office”, Ms Richardson said.

“Because Virtual Assistants are independent contractors rather than employees, clients are not responsible for any employee-related taxes, insurance or benefits. Clients also avoid the logistical problem of providing extra office space, equipment or supplies.

“Rates are generated based on the client’s individual needs and financial abilities and the skill, resources and time required. Essentially the client only pays for the productive time Panacea VA spends on them, so if we work for half an hour on a particular assignment, you only pay for half an hour.

“Additionally there are instances where Panacea is retained for longer periods or on a monthly basis where the client is guaranteed a set amount of hours or general availability for an ongoing period of time i.e. Projects, Phone support, and email management. There are also various discounts offered and an Affiliate Program where Panacea itself would refer its clients to for services we may not offer.

“Because it is part of our goal to assist in maintaining our client’s goals and objectives, we ensure that we are conversant in and understanding of their purposes, practices and needs.

“When working as an intermediary for a client, their customer’s are generally never even aware that they are dealing with a third party through phone or e-mail as it is all handled using the client’s own phone numbers, email addresses or stationary, however we do have the capabilities to set up or create and offer these or additional items to assist them in looking more professional.

“Entrepreneurship has been an eye opener to the other side of business. Communicating and networking is paramount to finding ways to get your business out there. With one sibling who has an established Website and Graphic Design business and another who is launching a Property Management Company, Panacea also became a potential fit for their clients as well as theirs for Panacea’s.”

Anyone interested in learning more can make contact through the website, email [info@panaceava.com] or phone 296 4505.

“No one should have to choose between eating and surviving,” said a spokesperson. ” We look forward to seeing you and hope that you will join us on our journey to help breast cancer patients survive.”

For more information about Mélange, please visit our website at melange.bm

In February 2012, BELCO received notice from Government’s Energy Commission that its October 2011 submission to increase basic tariff rates with effect from 1 January 2012 had been rejected.

“The rates increase is essential for BELCO to secure financing for the North Power Station project,” said BELCO.

“The Commission’s decision was appealed by BELCO to the Minister of Environment, Planning & Infrastructure Strategy and on 9 May 2012, BELCO received notification that the appeal had been rejected by the Minister with respect to the basic tariff rates increase.”

BELCO said they are considering their legal options, as if the Minister’s decision stands, then the North Power Station project will not proceed, leaving BELCO with “no choice but to continue to meet Bermuda’s future energy demand with older, less efficient and less reliable generation plant.”

The rejection of the rates increase will also have an impact on other capital projects, BELCO said.

Speaking on their declining income, the Company said the “significant decrease of 11.58 million kWh is directly related to the economic downturn, as the number of active, metered residential units has declined due to a weak economy and increased numbers of non-Bermudian work permit holders leaving the Island, as some businesses either moved operations out of Bermuda or reduced staffing levels.”

Sales in the commercial sector were down 1.3%, which BELCO said was due to “business closures, reduced hours of operation, lower occupancy levels and concerted efforts by many businesses to reduce operating costs through energy conservation, due to the Island’s economic downturn.”

The relevant portion of the Ascendant Group’s press statement is below:

BELCO’s net income declined $1.49 million to $14.54 million from 2010 results of $16.03 million. Sales of electricity, net of fuel adjustment income, decreased $3.22 million in 2011 to $150.75 million, down from the $153.97 million achieved in 2010. Basic tariff rates and facility charges remained unchanged from 2010, following management’s decision, which was ratified by the Board of Directors, not to increase these rates due to the economic downturn, although entitled to do so, given prior approval from the Price Control Commission in 2006.

Residential kilowatt hour (kWh) sales decreased 4.2% in 2011, following an increase in 2010 of 1.9%. Average consumption per customer decreased 4.2% during the year to an average monthly consumption of 678.5 kWh. A significant decrease of 11.58 million kWh is directly related to the economic downturn, as the number of active, metered residential units has declined due to a weak economy and increased numbers of non-Bermudian work permit holders leaving the Island, as some businesses either moved operations out of Bermuda or reduced staffing levels.

Sales in the commercial sector were down 1.3%, or 4.17 million kWh, compared to a decrease of 1.9% in 2010. Primary factors responsible for the reduction are business closures, reduced hours of operation, lower occupancy levels and concerted efforts by many businesses to reduce operating costs through energy conservation, due to the Island’s economic downturn.

Fuel is BELCO’s most significant expense. In 2011, total fuel costs increased $14.71 million from $107.34 million in 2010 to $122.05 million. This increase is due primarily to a 17.7% increase in the average cost of fuel or an additional $18.05 per barrel, up from $101.83 per barrel in 2010 to $119.88 per barrel in 2011. The increase in fuel costs resulted in an additional $18.12 million being spent on fuel during the current year. The increase was also due to a 34.0% increase in the average price paid to the Bermuda Government for kWh generation received from the Tynes Bay incineration plant during the year as BELCO paid $1.79 million for 11.94 million kWh (2010: $1.39 million for 12.36 million kWh).

Increases noted were offset in part by improved Central Plant efficiency and decreased generation volumes related to lower kWh demand. Average efficiency for 2011 was 702.5 kWh per barrel of fuel consumed, as compared to 689.9 kWh per barrel in 2010. This translates to 18,295 fewer barrels consumed and fuel savings of $1.86 million. BELCO tries to take advantage of temporary declines in world fuel prices by purchasing fuel shipments ahead of their delivery date. In 2011, these forward purchases of fuel resulted in savings of approximately $5 million in comparison to what would have been paid had the fuel been purchased at contract prices. Also during 2011, BELCO entered into a new contract with a new supplier of fuel oil for its generation plant, resulting in fuel cost savings of $2.54 million. The total savings of approximately $7.54 million enabled BELCO to charge its customers a lower fuel adjustment rate.

BELCO invested $21.7 million in capital projects in 2011 compared to $29.5 million in 2010.
Included in the 2011 amount was some $3.6 million, for the North Power Station project. This project was budgeted to cost approximately $70 million over four years, involving the design and construction of three 14 megawatt (MW) diesel generating units plus associated work. These engines were scheduled to begin commercial operation in July 2013 and formed an integral part of a multi-phase Central Plant development plan that supported the future introduction of large-scale renewable energy obtained through wind, solar and waste-to-energy production.

The introduction of these engines is essential to meet Bermuda’s future energy demand, as three less efficient existing engines are scheduled for retirement in 2013, as are all East Power Station Phase I engines in 2017. However, in February 2012, BELCO received notice from Government’s Energy Commission that its October 2011 submission to increase basic tariff rates with effect from 1 January 2012 had been rejected. The rates increase is essential for BELCO to secure financing for the North Power Station project. The Commission’s decision was appealed by BELCO to the Minister of Environment, Planning & Infrastructure Strategy and on 9 May 2012, BELCO received notification that the appeal had been rejected by the Minister with respect to the basic tariff rates increase.

At the time of writing, BELCO is considering its legal options. If the Minister’s decision stands, then the North Power Station project will not proceed, leaving BELCO with no choice but to continue to meet Bermuda’s future energy demand with older, less efficient and less reliable generation plant. The rejection of the rates increase will also have an impact on other capital projects. For example, in 2011 BELCO commenced logistical work in preparation for the Prospect-to-Flatts transmission cable replacement in 2012; however, as a result of the Minister’s decision this project has been deferred. This project is considered extremely important, as it would allow very old, problematic and operationally expensive 22 kV cables on the eastern portion of the Island to be retired, providing a more secure link to the Flatts substation and mitigating possible overloads on Fort Hamilton feeds to Flatts.

The full release from Ascendant is below:

Today, Ascendant Group Limited announced financial results for 2011. Ascendant Group’s subsidiaries are Bermuda Electric Light Company Limited (BELCO), Bermuda Gas & Utility Company Limited, inVenture Limited, PureNERGY Renewables, Ltd. and Sigma Corporate Services Company Limited.

Ascendant Group’s consolidated net earnings for 2011 declined to $11.12 million from 2010 results of $16.02 million. The decrease reflects the impact of the Island’s economic challenges, which resulted in Ascendant Group operating subsidiaries experiencing reduced sales.

Results for 2011 also include the effect of significant one-time charges totalling approximately $3.88 million, which arose from decisions regarding both the company’s pension plan and employee early retirements. Effective 1 January 2012, BELCO staff who joined the company prior to 1 January 2006 were transitioned from a Defined Benefit Pension Plan to the Defined Contribution Pension Plan in which the majority of staff currently participate; as a result, a one-time, non-cash expense of $3.38 million was incurred.

Also in 2011, a number of long-serving employees throughout Ascendant Group received early retirement compensation packages totalling approximately $1.5 million. The net cost of early retirement, after considering employment costs avoided for 2011, was approximately $500,000. Although Ascendant Group incurred significant one-time costs with the decisions to offer early retirement and freeze the Defined Benefit Pension Plan, the company anticipates there will be substantial future savings as a result of both of these actions.

Net parent company operating expenses increased $2.47 million during the current year to $3.55 million, from total net 2010 expenditures incurred of $1.08 million. The increase was due in part to administrative costs associated with hiring an international consulting firm to assist with succession planning, and an energy consulting firm to prepare a cost-of-service study and assist with the review of tariff rate alternatives, rate case preparation and development of BELCO’s interconnection policy.

Capital expenditures of Ascendant Group companies were also affected by the economic downturn as investment in property, plant and equipment decreased from $29.5 million in 2010 to $25.7 million in 2011.

Bermuda Gas
Bermuda Gas’ net income results decreased 26.8%, or $353,916, to $969,104 from net income of $1.32 million reported in 2010. Gas sales were 2.5% higher than 2010 sales, as price increases offset decreased volumes in both residential and commercial markets, directly related to the downturn in the local economy.

However, net income was negatively impacted as lower sales margins were realised in 2011, following management’s decision not to pass on increased costs to consumers in deference to the economic realities facing the Island. Appliance sales decreased 3.0% when compared to 2010 sales. Service sales decreased 3.2% and parts sales were also down 9.5% on 2010, again due directly to the economy.

Bermuda Gas capital expenditures incurred in 2011 totalled $1.95 million, as compared to $661,000 in 2010, as this company spent $1.56 million during the year to finalise building leasehold improvements, bringing its Warehouse, Parts & Service Departments, Administration, Customer Care and Appliance Showroom under one roof.

PureNERGY
PureNERGY Renewables, Ltd. sustained a loss of $1.39 million in the current year, following a 2010 loss of $405,276. Although recent announcements regarding financing, tax relief and other incentives for small-scale renewable energy systems are encouraging for PureNERGY, the operation of this company will be assessed during 2012, if these do not result in opportunities.
.
inVenture
inVenture Limited reported a consolidated net loss of $184,560 in 2011, as compared to a 2010 consolidated net loss of $72,035. inVenture, which was formed to pursue new investment opportunities outside of the energy business, incorporated two new organisations, iFM Limited and iEPC Limited during 2011.

iFM is a joint venture company that is 60% owned and controlled by inVenture and 40% owned and controlled by a Bermuda-registered, exempted subsidiary of Black & McDonald Limited, a privately held Canadian company. iEPC, which was incorporated on 11 July 2011, is a wholly owned subsidiary of inVenture, established to provide engineering, procurement, construction and consulting services for Ascendant Group companies, as well as third parties. As at 31 December 2011, neither company had any financial activity.

Sigma
Sigma, which provides corporate services to Ascendant Group and its subsidiaries, recorded net income in 2011 of $28,670 from training courses offered externally, after breaking even in 2010. Sigma provides legal, external relations, human resources and corporate communications services primarily to Ascendant Group.

BELCO
BELCO’s net income declined $1.49 million to $14.54 million from 2010 results of $16.03 million. Sales of electricity, net of fuel adjustment income, decreased $3.22 million in 2011 to $150.75 million, down from the $153.97 million achieved in 2010. Basic tariff rates and facility charges remained unchanged from 2010, following management’s decision, which was ratified by the Board of Directors, not to increase these rates due to the economic downturn, although entitled to do so, given prior approval from the Price Control Commission in 2006.

Residential kilowatt hour (kWh) sales decreased 4.2% in 2011, following an increase in 2010 of 1.9%. Average consumption per customer decreased 4.2% during the year to an average monthly consumption of 678.5 kWh. A significant decrease of 11.58 million kWh is directly related to the economic downturn, as the number of active, metered residential units has declined due to a weak economy and increased numbers of non-Bermudian work permit holders leaving the Island, as some businesses either moved operations out of Bermuda or reduced staffing levels.

Sales in the commercial sector were down 1.3%, or 4.17 million kWh, compared to a decrease of 1.9% in 2010. Primary factors responsible for the reduction are business closures, reduced hours of operation, lower occupancy levels and concerted efforts by many businesses to reduce operating costs through energy conservation, due to the Island’s economic downturn.

Fuel is BELCO’s most significant expense. In 2011, total fuel costs increased $14.71 million from $107.34 million in 2010 to $122.05 million. This increase is due primarily to a 17.7% increase in the average cost of fuel or an additional $18.05 per barrel, up from $101.83 per barrel in 2010 to $119.88 per barrel in 2011.

The increase in fuel costs resulted in an additional $18.12 million being spent on fuel during the current year. The increase was also due to a 34.0% increase in the average price paid to the Bermuda Government for kWh generation received from the Tynes Bay incineration plant during the year as BELCO paid $1.79 million for 11.94 million kWh (2010: $1.39 million for 12.36 million kWh).

Increases noted were offset in part by improved Central Plant efficiency and decreased generation volumes related to lower kWh demand. Average efficiency for 2011 was 702.5 kWh per barrel of fuel consumed, as compared to 689.9 kWh per barrel in 2010. This translates to 18,295 fewer barrels consumed and fuel savings of $1.86 million. BELCO tries to take advantage of temporary declines in world fuel prices by purchasing fuel shipments ahead of their delivery date.

In 2011, these forward purchases of fuel resulted in savings of approximately $5 million in comparison to what would have been paid had the fuel been purchased at contract prices. Also during 2011, BELCO entered into a new contract with a new supplier of fuel oil for its generation plant, resulting in fuel cost savings of $2.54 million. The total savings of approximately $7.54 million enabled BELCO to charge its customers a lower fuel adjustment rate.

BELCO invested $21.7 million in capital projects in 2011 compared to $29.5 million in 2010. Included in the 2011 amount was some $3.6 million, for the North Power Station project. This project was budgeted to cost approximately $70 million over four years, involving the design and construction of three 14 megawatt (MW) diesel generating units plus associated work. These engines were scheduled to begin commercial operation in July 2013 and formed an integral part of a multi-phase Central Plant development plan that supported the future introduction of large-scale renewable energy obtained through wind, solar and waste-to-energy production.

The introduction of these engines is essential to meet Bermuda’s future energy demand, as three less efficient existing engines are scheduled for retirement in 2013, as are all East Power Station Phase I engines in 2017. However, in February 2012, BELCO received notice from Government’s Energy Commission that its October 2011 submission to increase basic tariff rates with effect from 1 January 2012 had been rejected.

The rates increase is essential for BELCO to secure financing for the North Power Station project. The Commission’s decision was appealed by BELCO to the Minister of Environment, Planning & Infrastructure Strategy and on 9 May 2012, BELCO received notification that the appeal had been rejected by the Minister with respect to the basic tariff rates increase.

At the time of writing, BELCO is considering its legal options. If the Minister’s decision stands, then the North Power Station project will not proceed, leaving BELCO with no choice but to continue to meet Bermuda’s future energy demand with older, less efficient and less reliable generation plant. The rejection of the rates increase will also have an impact on other capital projects.

For example, in 2011 BELCO commenced logistical work in preparation for the Prospect-to-Flatts transmission cable replacement in 2012; however, as a result of the Minister’s decision this project has been deferred. This project is considered extremely important, as it would allow very old, problematic and operationally expensive 22 kV cables on the eastern portion of the Island to be retired, providing a more secure link to the Flatts substation and mitigating possible overloads on Fort Hamilton feeds to Flatts.

Finally, in releasing its year-end results, Ascendant Group noted that A.L. Vincent Ingham, who was responsible for the company’s strategic direction as a Director, President and Chief Executive Officer, retired at year end, on 31 December 2011. Plans to replace Mr. Ingham are well underway.

As the global economy recovers, Bermuda needs to adopt a truly global perspective and be in a position to offer an outstanding environment in which to do business. Ascendant Group intends to be a source of support and growth, building on strong relationships and entering into public-private partnerships to ensure the success of our businesses and Island.

Ascendant Group is proud to be an employer, service provider, business partner and purchaser of goods and services. Ascendant Group is also a corporate citizen that enhances quality of life, and is committed to being an attractive investment.

Ascendant Group Limited is a publicly traded investment holding company whose shares trade on the Bermuda Stock Exchange (ticker AGL.BH). The mission of Ascendant Group is to maximise shareholder value through growth in existing energy-related businesses and investment in utility and infrastructure companies.

Ascendant Group Limited is the parent company of operating companies Bermuda Electric Light Company Limited (BELCO), Bermuda Gas & Utility Company Limited, PureNERGY Renewables Ltd., Sigma Corporate Services Company Limited and inVenture Limited, as well as BELCO Properties Limited and BTS Limited.

The 48 page book titled “Picturesque Bermuda at a Glance”features the best of Roland Skinner’s iconic photos, some of which were featured in Skinner’s first two hard cover books – two of the most popular Bermuda books sold today.

A.S. Cooper Managing Director Somers Cooper explained, “We wanted to offer a collection of the best Picturesque images in a book size that could easily be transported overseas in one’s carry-on luggage and be at a price range suitable for any budget.

“Roland and I worked directly with book designer, Laura Herrmann Couallier to insure that print selection, lay-out and production quality was first class.”

Images featured show Bermuda scenes taken over the last ten to fifteen years and include local landscapes, seascapes, beaches, flora, architecture and aerial shots of the island. The book is expected to retail at $16.95.

A.S. Cooper’s acquired the Picturesque Gallery from Mr. Skinner a year ago although the business still relies on Mr. Skinner’s input. Archival quality prints of the Picturesque images are available at the Picturesque Gallery in the Design Centre, 129 Front St. East or online at picturesquebermuda.com. New mini galleries are also in place at A.S.Cooper’s Main and Dockyard stores.

This year’s Caribbean Championships will be extra competitive as the winners will be going forward as the sole Caribbean representatives in the World Cup Qualifiers for 2015 in England.

Bermuda National Rugby Squad:

• Paul Dobinson
• Dustin Archibald
• Jahan Cedenio
• Thomas Greenslade
• Mike Williams
• David Rourke
• Bobby Hurdle
• Peter Dunkerley
• Darren Richardson
• Andrew Hook
• Henry Paddison
• Pete Dunlop
• Tony Ward
• Tom Healy
• Ian Henderson
• Lachie Armour
• Paull Davis
• Tom Edwards
• Neville Zuill
• Andre Landy
• Shauntino Simons
• David Pringle

The Regiment charter jet left Montego Bay’s Sangster Airport on Saturday 12th May, with the soldiers returning to Bermuda later that afternoon, and Pte Shabazz faced the local Magistrate on Monday 14th May.

The Regiment had been in Jamaica since 29th April and the end-of-exercise leave period saw the soldiers taking their short leave in the tourist area of Montego Bay.

Pte Shabazz was fined $9,000 Jamaican dollars — equivalent to approximately $103 Bermuda dollars — and will be personally responsible for any additional costs incurred by the method of his return to Bermuda.

Speaking last week, a Regiment spokesperson said: “In order to ensure the recovery of the equipment and baggage to Bermuda goes as safely as possible all personal items are thoroughly searched and examined. Setting the example, the senior officers are the first to have their bags checked – in full view of the Privates.

“The Regimental Sergeant Major Gavin Rayner then nominates certain personnel to become baggage checkers, including a member of the Bermuda Police Service detached to the Regiment for the duration of the Camp.

“The process is simple: every soldier empties everything out of their bergan onto the floor, the bag is checked, and then every item is cleared – one piece at a time.

“Once that is done, the bags are placed in a sealed and locked container which won’t be opened again until in the presence of Bermuda Customs and Police personnel including “sniffer” dogs.”

Zekiah Lewis won the Under 12 Girls 100 Meter Dash with a time of 13.91 while One Hart finished second clocking 14.85 and Markesiyah DeShields finished third in 15.06.

The Under 12 Boys 100 Meter Dash was won by DeAndre Warner who clocked 14.68. Clevonte Lodge finished second in 14.77 and Te’Shon Wales-Smith finished third in 14.87.

Kyrah Scraders won the Under 17 Girls 200 Meter Dash with a time of 25.79, Azaire Smith finished second clocking 26.77 and Jaymie Darrell finished third with a time of 26.83.

Michaiah Robinson won the Under 17 Boys 400 Meter Dash with a time of 53.01, while Kionje Somner finished second with a time of 54.28 and Kidane Callendar finished third clocking 54.64.

Full results below, click full screen for clarity:

The wedding ceremony took place at 5pm on the beach with the American bride and groom, who work as a firefighter and a police officer respectively on the U.S. East Coast.

Right after the ceremony, the newlyweds and their guests were directed to a location just off the beach where some photos would be taken. It was only then that the visiting couple and their guests learned that local police officers and firefighters had arrived to wish them well.

Bermuda Police Service Constables Sean Hassell and James Eli, both on police motorcycles were joined by Firefighter Ed Daniels and Firefighter Raymond Masters, who came in a Bermuda Fire & Rescue Service fire engine.

The unexpected attendees gladly posed for photos with the bride and groom as well as other wedding guests. The happy couple was also presented with a plaque by the Bermuda Fire & Rescue Service, commemorating their special day.

The College traditionally bestows the appropriate Associate Degree, Diploma and Certificate status on deserving students in the divisions of Applied Science & Technology, Business Administration & Hospitality, and Liberal Arts.

Ceremonies also feature graduates of the College’s partnership with Mount Saint Vincent University baccalaureate degree programme in Business Administration and Child and Youth Studies. This year, Associate Vice President, Student Experience at Mount Saint Vincent, Mr. Jeff Hollett, will be travelling to the Island to bestow baccalaureate degrees on 16 graduates.

Bermuda College President Dr. Duranda Greene says the College continues to meet the needs of individuals of all ages, and will continue to be the catalyst for anyone desirous of seizing the opportunity toward further education.

“Bermuda College continues to expand in the truest sense of the community college philosophy,” she stated. “In the midst of this prolonged recession, we will ensure that we provide courses and programmes that are relevant to today’s economy – not only with their relevance, but also their accessibility.

“Most heartening of all, is that our community continues to recognise the value that higher education brings to any society, and they take advantage of that opportunity. Every faculty member, member of staff, administrators and the executive remains committed to our mission to set Bermuda’s students on the paths to success, as we’ll be doing on Thursday!”

The College will close at 1:00 p.m. for the ceremonies. All evening classes will be held as scheduled.

Bermuda Track and Field President Donna Watson said, “We started Friday night with Aaron Evans at the SEC Championships in Baton Rouge, Louisiana competing in the heats of the 800m and placing 1st earning him a spot in the finals which were taking place Sunday evening.

“Saturday belonged to Arantxa King at the PAC 12 championships in Eugene, Oregon in the Long jump. Arantxa led the competition up to the last jump when she was overtaken by an athlete from Arizona State with a leap of 6.45.

“Arantxa ended in 2nd place with a leap of 6.42. Aaron was next up in the 800m finals where he was up against 5 athletes from Arankas. Aaron was able to out run the entire field placing 1st in a time of 1.49.61 with the Arkansas athletes behind him in 2nd, 3rd and 4th. Arantxa also competed in the Triple Jump on the Sunday and placed 3rd.

“These 2 are both on the brink of reaching the Olympic Qualifying standard and this puts them in good positions going into the NCAA championships in the next few weeks,”continued Ms Watson.

“We are also looking forward to them coming home and competing in front of their home crowd for the National Championships where there will be overseas competitors coming in to compete against them at the championships. I have no doubt that these two will be booking their tickets to London very soon.”

“Shianne Smith competed in her first Outdoor Heptathlon for the season and placed 1st with points of 4968. Shianne is preparing for the Pan American Combined Events which will be held in Ottawa, Canada May 26th & 27th in her quest to qualify for London 2012.

“Lamont Marshall continues to move closer to his qualifying standard in the 1500m towards London with a PB of 3:50.34 placing 3rd in his heat in the Wolfpack Last Chance Meet in NC Sunday. Lamont is trying to get his time down to 3:38.00 which is the qualifying standard,”concluded Ms Watson.

En Sound is an Independent Gospel Music Award Show which provides an outlet where independent and unsigned artists are recognized for their contribution to the gospel music industry.

The En Sound Awards are determined by a popularity vote which takes place online. Voting ends on June 8th, 2012, with the awards being presented on July 29, at the Porter Sanford III Performing Arts Centre in Atlanta, Georgia U.S.A.

The nominations are for: Best Urban Female, Female Vocalist of the Year, Song of the Year, Album of the Year, Artist of the Year

Residents may drop off compact fluorescent light bulbs, old pesticides, hobby chemicals, outdated medicines or anything with a hazardous or warning label to the facility on these days.

Businesses with large amounts of special waste or those requiring more information should contact Clarkston Trott at 278-0562 or 501-3025.

Bermuda has a comprehensive waste management programme allowing for many waste items to be shipped overseas for recycling or reuse. To learn more about waste disposal in Bermuda visit www.wastemanagement.gov.bm, see the BTC blue pages 27-30 or email recycle@gov.bm.

A police spokesperson said, “Around 12:45am on Tuesday May 15th, police responded to a report of a single vehicle collision in the area of Crow Lane in Pembroke involving a motorcycle.

“It appears that the motorcycle was travelling along Crow Lane when it collided with a sidewalk. On arrival, officers approached the rider, a 37 year old Pembroke man who appeared to be intoxicated. He was arrested on suspicion of impaired driving.

“He later failed the alco-analyser test and was detained in police custody as a result. There were no reported injuries. A court appearance is anticipated in due course.”

Other members of the delegation include Minister Patrice Minors, PLP MP Neletha Butterfield, OBA MP Patricia Gordon-Pamplin and Clerk to the Legislature Shernette Wolffe.

The Bermuda Branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association [CPA] was invited to attend the conference from May 11th – 18th, 2012. Seventeen member countries of the Caribbean including Anguilla, Barbados, Trinidad and Cayman Islands are also in attendance.

The theme of the conference is “Low Citizen Confidence in Governance: How can Parliamentarians build trust in Caribbean Legislatures?” A Conference of Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians is being held within the context of the conference.

Topics being discussed include:

• “Building Bridges” between the Community and Government – Building Bridges with our Island Neighbours: Women as key players
• Managing Careers to assume the “Chief Post”
• Raising levels of integrity among Parliamentarians: Are existing rules adequate?
• Parliamentarians before the courts: Raising the bar or leaving it at “innocent until proven guilty”

Horan’s Hunters from Warwick Academy are this year’s winners out of a group of sixteen teams. The team won $10,000 for the school after finishing the challenge with $56,695.

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The Saltus “Goldfingers” claimed second place with total of $56,099 while Bermuda High School’s “Common Cents” finished in third place with $55,492.

Teams were made up with students from the islands senior schools including Cedarbridge Academy, Berkeley Institute, Bermuda High School, Saltus Grammar, Mount St Agnes, Warwick Academy, Bermuda Institute and Somersfield Academy.

Speaking at the event were Wanda Armstrong, KPMG HR Manager and coordinator of the challenge, KPMG Partner Steve Woodward and Education Minister Dame Jennifer Smith.

Warwick Academy: 1st place – Team Horan’s Hunters

Rachel Bacon
Erica Balcombe
David Cashin
Ashley Davies
Luther DeLange
Zoe Fields
Keiran Hamilton
Jaishelbi Johnston
Sydney Neal
Samantha Pereira
Kealan Robinson
Matthew Wedich
Sierra Wilson

Saltus: 2nd Place – Team Gold Fingers

Daniel Pell
Nicholas Barton
Jonas Frumkin

Bermuda High School: 3rd Place – Common Cents

Aleisha Hollis
Jada Pearman
Ashlee Lambe
Charlotte Griffiths
Sophia Schwertl

The PHRF handicap system allocates each boat a handicap, based on her design, and that is used to adjust her time to complete a course to her “corrected time” – the lowest corrected time wins the race.

Race 1 was a two lap race in the Great Sound. Some crews were scrambling for the race instructions as unfamiliar flags flew from the start boat, but all boats started cleanly and settled down on the long racecourse in the stiff northerly breeze. Conditions were ideal for focussing on boat speed, and seeking out favourable breeze.

“Fram” was first on corrected time, beating “Crossfire” by 22 seconds, with “Morning Glory” a further 3 seconds back.
Race 2 was another long two lap race, with “Morning Glory” beating “Smokin”, helmed by RBYC Vice Commodore Somers Kempe, by 12 seconds, and with the other Dragon design in the championship “GER1114” a further 43 seconds back.

Race 3 was a distance race, of approximately 13 miles, around various Government Marks in the Great Sound, finishing off White’s Island in Hamilton Harbour. This tested the boats in reaching conditions, where finding a lane with undisturbed air was vital to maintaining speed.

“Crossfire” was the first boat to finish after 1 hour 40 minutes, and “Cyclone” the last to cross the line after 2 hours 24 minutes, but once handicaps had been applied, “GER1114” beat “Morning Glory” by 34 seconds, with the J105 “Elusive” 48 seconds further back.

The championship was scored by rating band (for Class-2, 3 and 4), and by division (boats using either symmetric or a symmetric spinnakers), as well as the overall.

• Class 2 – “Triangle Rigging Tankard” – Smokin
• Class 3 – “Montpelier Re Bowl” – Fram
• Class 4 – “Hiscox Plate” – Morning Glory
• Asymmetric Fleet – “Gubinelli Decanter” – Smokin
• Symmetric Fleet – “Yabsta Plaque” – Morning Glory

For the overall results, in third place was “Smokin”, with 13 points; in second place with 8 points “GER1114”; and in first place with 6 points the Dragon “Morning Glory” helmed by Hasso Plattner.

The Dragon design, which dates back to 1929, was the slowest boat in the fleet by handicap, but was sailed consistently in the series, in ideal conditions for this small three man boat.

There were six different yacht designs in the first seven places, illustrating that whilst handicap systems are a challenge in yacht racing, and the subject of much discussion off the water, the results were shared between modern and old designs, small and large boats alike.

The organising committee – the Bermuda Yacht Racing Association, is looking forward to this becoming an annual event on the sailing calendar.

RenaissanceRe made a leadership gift to BZS’s Education Endowment Fund—allowing critical conservation-education programmes for Bermuda’s children to continue. To thank the company, BZS has dedicated the Fossa Exhibit, one of the Zoo’s most popular, to RenaissanceRe.

The fossa is a cat-like predator housed within the new Madagascar Exhibit that opened last fall alongside a world-class Animal Care Centre, both sponsored by HSBC Bank of Bermuda Limited.

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“RenaissanceRe is committed to Bermuda and supporting organisations that improve the quality of life for everyone on our Island,” said company CEO Neill Currie.

“The Bermuda Aquarium, Museum & Zoo is a place where Bermudians and visitors of all ages are educated and inspired to develop an appreciation of the fragile environment and unique wildlife around us.

“We are proud to support Bermuda Zoological Society’s conservation-education programmes and to have our name attached to this fascinating attraction in the Madagascar Exhibit which we hope will be enjoyed for years to come.”

The Zoo’s fossa—a two-year-old female named “Orana” (Malagasy for “rain”)—is a member of the mongoose family, representing Madagascar’s top predator. With her long tail, intense stare and agile antics, Orana has proven very popular with BAMZ visitors, including school students who learn about the environmental challenges facing fragile island environments through the Madagascar Exhibit.

RenaissanceRe’s financial gift to the BZS Education Endowment helps support the free conservation-education programmes offered to more 6,000 children every year. These include science lessons in BZS classrooms, visits to local schools, weekend nature encounters and holiday camps, plus field-trips to reefs and national parks around the Island.

“We thank RenaissanceRe for its generous and faithful support of BZS, and its continued commitment to funding the teaching of young people about the importance of our natural environment,” said Lynda Johnson, Development Director of BZS.

BZS is the support charity for Bermuda Aquarium, Museum & Zoo, funding a full slate of education programmes, conservation and research projects, exhibits and community outreach events. BAMZ is a Bermuda government institution within the Department of Conservation Services.

[Photo credit: Chris Burville]

“We are pleased to open our doors for a unique tour experience as part of this year’s Hospitality Heritage Trail” says Monica Massey, Director of Human Resources.

“Elbow Beach is one of the island’s most historical properties, so we’re always happy to have the chance to tell Elbow Beach’s wonderful story.”

The morning will include a tour of the resort gardens, including viewing a guestroom and The Spa at Elbow Beach. It will also include a Rum Tasting and Swizzle Sampling courtesy of Goslings.

The event will end with a tour of the resorts Memorabilia Photo Gallery displaying the history of Elbow Beach in pictures. Classic bikes will also be on display for the enjoyment of participants.

“Elbow Beach was the first hotel to be built on Bermuda’s South Shore in 1908” says Ms. Massey. “Over 100 years of history has brought us to where we are today, and we are excited to share that.

Mr Jones is now business development and marketing manager for three Bermuda-based MediaHouse subsidiaries – Bermuda Sun, Island Press and bermuda.com.

MediaHouse Chairman & CEO Randy French said: “Glenn is an important part of our company-wide effort to be nimble and agile in the face of a significantly changed economic landscape in Bermuda.

“We expect the same kind of business growth and marketing strategies Glenn brought to bermuda.com he will now bring to all of our Bermuda-based media companies.”

Glenn Jones took over as general manager of bermuda.com in January 2010, and since then, has managed the redesign of bermuda.com as well as the launch of bermuda.com Deals, bermuda.com Shop, bermudaCupMatch.com and bermuda.com 12 Days of Christmas.

Before running bermuda.com Mr. Jones was Press Secretary to Bermuda’s Premier from 2007 to 2009 and a journalist in the United States and Bermuda from 1999 to 2007. Mr Jones is the recipient of an EMMY Award for television journalism.

“MediaHouse is a great Bermuda media institution with a Bermuda-born CEO and a collection of skilled Bermudian company members,” said Mr. Jones, “I’m honored to be asked to take on a greater leadership role here and help usher in a new spirit of innovation.”

Mr. Jones officially began his new role as MediaHouse business development and marketing manager earlier this month immediately following a ten-week assignment working in Kingston for Jamaica Yellow Pages, another company in the MediaHouse family.

The day-to-day operation of bermuda.com now rests with Jorgen Clausen, who ran bermuda.com from 2004 to 2008.

[Photo credit: Kageaki Smith]

BCB reported a profit of $3.23 million for the six months ended March 31, 2012 equating to fully diluted earnings per share of $0.44. This compares with a profit of $1.35 million ($0.20 per share) for the six months ended March 31, 2011.Total revenue for the period was $10.17 million compared to $5.74 million in the prior year period.

The Bank’s Chairman, Michael Collier, stated that “Our improved earnings reflect solid customer deposits and strong interest earnings on our investments and to a lesser extent our loan portfolios.”

Mr. Collier stated that “The Bank’s profit together with the unrealised growth of our investment portfolio boosted shareholders’ equity to $93.56 million at March 31, 2012 compared with $82.92 million at September 30, 2011.

“Our tier one capital ratio, which is a measure of strength and stability, was 25.52% at period end, significantly higher than general industry standards and a clear indication of the strength of BCB’s balance sheet. Our total capital ratio was 21.66%.”

“The Bank seeks to build value for our shareholders by generating consistent and sustainable earnings while adhering to our conservative risk profile.

“We are therefore pleased with the steady growth in profit levels and the strengthening of the deposit base since the completion of the sale of the Bank two years ago. BCB has become Bermuda’s bank of choice for clients that demand traditional service excellence along with a conservative approach to business.”

The Crown’s evidence was that Police had seen Ms Fray [pictured] riding in Hamilton on 22nd December 2011. At the time, Police observed that she was riding her auxiliary cycle and had an earphone in her ear.

Police had stopped her and subsequently ticketed her and charged her with the offence of using a hand-held device whilst operating a motor vehicle.

Ms Fray’s defence was that although she had an earphone in her ear, and admittedly, the earphone was connected to an electronic device that was in her jacket pocket, she was not using the device because it was not turned on and not transmitting any sounds or signals.

Ms Fray said that she had an iPhone and that this device needed to be set to play music through the MP3 app; and that this was not case. When stopped — and before being stopped — her iPhone was and had been inactive.

Ms Fray said that she was wearing a ‘Nolan’ helmet which is a full helmet that covers the ears as well. From this, the most that the Police officer could have seen was a wire leading up to the helmet. Ms Fray admitted that she did have one earphone in her right ear.

The Crown’s total and only evidence was that she had an earphone in her ear and that this earphone was connected to a hand-held device as described in the legislation.

Senior Magistrate Archie Warner challenged the Crown to provide evidence that the hand-held device was actually in use, with emphasis on the fact of use as opposed to merely being retained on the person. The Crown was unable to provide any other evidence of use by way of proof of transmission of electronic signals or otherwise.

Given Ms Fray’s assertion that the device was off and the Crown’s inability to counter her assertion or prove otherwise, the Senior Magistrate ruled against the Crown and dismissed the charge against the sixteen year-old.

Ms Fray’s is one of the first known successful challenges. In the past, a conviction has often carried a fine of $500. She originally came to Court on 31st January 2011 intending to plead “guilty with an explanation”. She says that by 31st January she had already completed her defence submission, all of which she had done on her own.

However, appearing in Plea Court on that day, and given her non-acceptance of guilt, she was advised to plead Not Guilty and go to trial. Throughout the proceedings, Ms Fray’s mother sat in the public gallery.

Ms Fray says that she has considered studying law but is currently leaning towards studying business.