Gorham’s the hardware and building supplies business based on St John’s Road, Pembroke, has a long history of ensuring generations of Bermudians have had what they need to ride out ferocious storms successfully.

Gorham’s offers a  convenient card that lists essential items for hurricane preparation, which is available at the customer service desk. But even the seasoned professionals at Gorham’s have to be reminded of some essentials.

“The least thought-about item when it comes to hurricanes is tennis balls,” Andrew Mackay, general manager of Gorham’s Ltd, said. We Bermudians know how to use them to block the drains on our roofs, to prevent vegetation and salt spray from getting into our tanks.

The team at Gorham’s prepares thoroughly to be regarded as a one-stop-shop for hurricane supplies. They even transform the layout of the store to be “hurricane central” with smaller, essential items near the front.

They want to ensure that they have what Bermuda needs without running out. Ask any local about where to go to get hurricane supplies, and you’ll most likely get: “Just go to Gorham’s.” As the supplier for everyone, from homeowner to the Department of Works and Engineering, they have the most stock. From gloves, chainsaws, hard hats, tarps, and plywood to rope, buckets, coolers, water, first aid kits, and radios, you truly can find everything you might need.

Their hours are convenient, they’re in a central location and have a staff ready to work as soon as it’s safe again after a storm.

“Our goal isn’t necessarily to have the best price on everything,” Mr Mackay said. “It’s the nature of the beast. However, we aim to have enough diversity and depth of product that you can secure your home and be safe, quickly getting your purchases and heading home to secure your premises.”

They are proud to be known as reliable and having the most useful items in stock when they are needed the most. “If someone needs 30 pairs of gloves or four bundles of plywood, we can supply it without running out,” Mr Mackay said. They are there when everyone needs them.

Gorham’s is affiliated with several major suppliers capable of meeting the spike in demand when a hurricane is looming, and they understand the urgency. Being on standby for hurricane season is the norm. Gorham’s’ hurricane experience, resources, and connections make it possible to have items quickly sent to the island. On arrival, they are moved off the docks as quickly as possible, onto the shelves, and into the hands of the customers who need them.

“Communication is important,” Mr Mackay said. “And we do our best to inform the stevedores team on the Hamilton docks, the shipping lines, and the trucking companies. Everyone realises the importance of hurricane supplies, and everyone is connected. While not considered an essential service provider during a pandemic, we are a priority in the arena for potential natural disaster.”

You will find a hurricane supply list at Gorham’s’ main store, through the Bermuda Government’s website, or through your insurance agency.  Better yet, you might just listen to some good “old-timers” who know what to do.

When the season starts however, it’s best to act early and build your kit.

“People typically only make purchases if there’s an actual emergency and everyone generally buys at the last minute,” Mr Mackay said. If you purchase your supplies ahead of time, you can avoid the rush. As the saying goes, the time to fix the roof is when the sun is shining.

As you’ve probably guessed, tarpaulins, batteries, and duct tape are the first things people look for. Gorham’s carries a variety of everything to meet everyone’s needs. Board games, disposable plates, cups and cutlery, flashlights, battery-operated fans and small propane BBQ’s  — these items are easy to store and can be on hand so that you aren’t caught by surprise.

Given the likelihood of power cuts in a storm’s aftermath, generators are also a big seller, while air-conditioning systems or fans during the summer months are an added benefit during this season, while obviously reliant on a working electricity supply.

“People will also purchase large bottles of water, even though we collect the water from our roofs,” Anne Lindo, the purchasing manager at Gorham’s, said.  It’s true – water is used for drinking, washing, cooking, and cleaning, but we might not trust what is in our tanks. Especially if we forgot to buy the essential tennis balls.

Here is a short list of steps to take and supplies to get in order to ride out the storm:

• Make a plan, review it, practise it, and use a checklist to keep yourself well equipped and aware
• Stock up on medications
• Ensure your insurance policies, for example covering your home, boat, car and home contents, are up to date
• Non-perishable food for up to three days. Don’t forget the manual can opener
• Batteries, gas, portable stove
• Fully-stocked ifrst-aid kit
• Generator
• Pet supplies
• Games and books to stay sane
• Tools
• Sufficient sanitation items, such as toilet paper, feminine products, soap and detergent
• Water (one gallon per person per day)
• Keep important paperwork in waterproof containers
• Special personal needs items such as diapers and formula for a baby, glasses or contact lenses when necessary
• Change of clothing
• Gas in the car or bike
• Cash

The post Resilience comes from preparation appeared first on RG Magazines.

However, you don’t want to sloth yourself down to Horseshoe or John Smith’s Bay like an average Joe – you want to show up prepared and in style. You have your new suit, your hat, sunscreen, even an enjoyable book. Now, on to the essentials that will elevate your day to an excursion!

Masters Home Centre has everything you need for the beach this year, whether you are a home owner or a hotelier. They’re on hand to set you up right – here’s how.

Beach Basics

Start with your beach chairs, available in various sizes, colors, and patterns. If you have company, (and you’ve convinced them to help carry your gazebo or sun shelter) – a 10’x10’ shaded area, complete with weights to prevent it from blowing away, is especially appealing.

Your cooler, whether it’s a large wheeled model or a compact one, is packed with beach-day treats, kept cool with ice packs. Additionally, you’ve brought along both a water jug and a drink jug—just in case.

To set up your spot, you break out the beach umbrella (there’s steel or aluminium models) which has optional solar lighting in case you are partying late. Under the umbrella goes your beach mat, a classic striped beach towel (at some of the best prices in Bermuda), and your waterproof beach bag.

And ofcourse, you’re brought your beach bag complete with swim cap, nose plugs, swim shoes, goggles, your snorkel mask, water gun, “floatie” (that’s floatation device for the uninitiated), a solar rechargeable air pump, and more.

Whether you’re a person of class, have a family, or both, a portable side table in plastic or aluminum is a must-have to hold your essentials in a size that fits your needs. With the tablecloth and co-ordinating clips, and pop-up food canopies to protect your food, your refreshments are at the ready.

For fun and games, you’ve brought along the number one seller – a beach ball. However, to shake it up a bit, you also have a bucket and sand tools for the kids, boogie boards for the teens, and a beach football to keep hubby entertained.

Poolside Essentials

Now, like Anakin Skywalker you might be thinking that you don’t like sand, so your plan is to hang out poolside instead. Masters Home Centre has something for you, too!

Whether its your personal home pool, your  Airbnb property, or perhaps just a glorified kiddie pool, you can set yourself up with traditional lounge chairs, or chairs with clip-on umbrellas, and maybe a floating cooler so you can enjoy the water for longer.

Hoteliers, you know that Masters Home Centre is the place to go for your pool noodles, beach balls, bamboo torches, etc. You know how to treat kids as guests!

Wannabe sailors, take advantage of the inflatable boats on hand that are often used at the Non-Mariners Race each year.

There is sincerely something for everyone at Masters Home Centre in their outdoor department. You should get there early! Don’t forget, with 10% off on Thursdays for regularly priced items, now is the time to stock up on beach gear and get ready to roll!

The post Hit the Beach like a Master appeared first on RG Magazines.

Mercedes Pringle-DeSilva, executive director at Age Concern, provided some insight into the services they provide, and their recommendations for older adults during hurricane season. She remarks that there seem to be more older adults on their own with their adult children, sometimes from overseas, contacting Age Concern to check in on their parents.

When a community experiences a disaster, the lives of every person are disrupted. This is perhaps never truer than when it comes to our seniors. The supports that may be in place are disrupted as well. The loss of power or transportation can have lasting consequences for our most vulnerable.

Like anyone, older adults are affected in different ways by an event like a hurricane. The difference is, the experiences they have during this time can affect their daily functioning years later. Simple tasks such as carrying heavy groceries, walking up a flight of stairs, and standing for long periods of time become challenging. However, they can be alleviated with a focused response immediately after a disaster.

If you want to reach out to the seniors in your community in preparation for hurricane season, don’t assume you know what they need.

“Firstly, ask them what it is they need from you,” Ms Pringle-DeSilva said. “Everyone has their own capabilities and limitations. If they are able, let them dictate how you can assist them.”

Speaking of assistance, Age Concern is a major player in the field of helping to ensure our older adults have what they need to live well during storm season. While supplies last, and for those in emergent need, they supply items like batteries, flashlights and water.

“We are also looking for a community sponsor to support us in purchasing or supplying items to our older adults in need,” Ms Pringle-DeSilva said.

Age Concern observes how crucial it is for seniors to have social connections just as much as physical preparedness for hurricane resilience.

“When our seniors are more socially connected, they are more likely to seek assistance and have those willing to offer assistance to them,” Ms Pringle-DeSilva explained. “When they are more connected, they feel more comfortable to do so and therefore are less likely to injure themselves or end up in harmful situations or without quick response to these situations.”

Indeed, the largest impact on a senior’s wellbeing is having close social connections. Physical, mental, and emotional health are all strengthened by having relationships with family, friends, and neighbours. Those relationships can really get you through those challenging times.

Research has found that older adults who were able to maintain social connections, such as informal socialising with neighbours and family, were protected from some negative effects, such as symptoms of depression.

“There can be physical limitations to maintaining social connections,” Ms Pringle-DeSilva said. “As well as technological difficulties with seniors not knowing how to use their phone or computer.”

Ichiro Kawachi, a renowned social epidemiologist and co-editor-in-chief of the international journal Social Science & Medicine, has stressed that very point. “It is essential for older adults to maintain social connections as a part of disaster preparedness,” Dr Kawachi wrote. “Being prepared is not only stockpiling resources like food and medicines and water. You also need to pay attention to the social connections.”

With some seniors taking care of even older seniors, you may expect there would be an increase in calls regarding hurricane preparedness. However, it seems those calls are diminishing as we tend to be prepared to literally weather a storm.

However, for those who may not feel fully prepared for a hurricane, here are some basic steps that Age Concern recommends for seniors who want to stay in their homes:

• Develop a contact list: this should include family and friends whom you may need to contact during an emergency, ideally individuals who can assist you. The contact list should also include emergency services or your own medical emergency numbers, should others need to tend to you (like your doctor or pet’s vet).
• Stock up on essentials: stock up on non-perishable items such as canned vegetables, canned fruits pasta and cereals. Make sure you have enough supplies of your medications, medical supplies, and are wearing your needed medical devices and allergy identifiers.
• Ask friends and family for help: ask them to secure your home if you are unable to do so yourself. Also ask them to move any larger furniture and items that may be blocking your emergency exit or accessible paths.

Many people don’t realise that Age Concern is not a government entity. Rather, it’s a non-profit organization, Charity number 137.

“One of our main services is to advocate on behalf of older adults and provide advice and referral services, for the dissemination of Bermuda-specific, age-related, information by telephone, internet, or walk-in,” Ms Pringle-DeSilva said.

“Through our Client Services Programme we often refer to other service providers such as Ageing and Disability Services, National Office for Seniors, Bermuda Health Council, the Department of Financial Assistance, Bermuda Housing Corporation, The Department of Health, MJM Ltd (legal services), Bermuda Police Service, and others.”

Age Concern Bermuda has a variety of programmes and services that offer assistance for older adults. From education, to advocacy, to client services and discounts, reach out to Age Concern if you’re 50 or older for more advice on how to make your life in Bermuda just a little easier.

The post Social connection key for seniors appeared first on RG Magazines.

Here on our island, we are fortunate to have three designated campgrounds to choose from. Whether you wish to be in the west (Chaplin Bay), east (Ferry Reach) or off the main island (Higgs & Horseshoe island), there is a location to suit both your mood and needs.

This year’s camping season commenced May 8th and extends until October 20th. Sonia Thomas, Acting Parks Officer, provided guidance and information on how to make your outdoor excursion smooth this year.

Traditionally camping was limited to residents of Bermuda, however Cruise Ship workers and visitors to Bermuda are permitted to camp if they are registered and staying in a guest accommodation, on a cruise ship, or at a private residence.

An assessment number must be provided to obtain a camping permit, and the camping fee is $15.00 per night per site. Check out time is 4.00pm on the day of departure. Camping permits can be obtained at the Department of Parks office at Global House 43 Church Street, Hamilton, during the hours of 8.30am – 4.30pm Monday – Friday.

THE BENEFITS OF TIME IN NATURE

Camping offers the most excitement for those of us seeking a challenge that contrasts with our comfortable lifestyle, as it involves stripping down to the essentials. This prompts you to carefully consider what you need to survive while planning your camping adventure.The basic essentials will likely include a backpack, a tent, some simple rations, water, a sleeping bag or hammock, cooler and camp chairs.

Your adventure is realized simply by being outside, taking a break from distractions, to relish an opportunity to unplug from everyday life and spend quality quiet time with family and friends.

GLAMP IT UP

“Glamping” – short for glamorous camping – is a hot new trend among those who want to maintain their creature comforts whilst enjoying the outdoors. Fashionable amenities may include a real mattress, luxury seating options, plush blankets, mood lighting, and more, all working in harmony to take your camping experience to a luxurious level.

As a side note to glamping, items are available both locally and online that may add that special touch for your outing. From folding chairs and tables, to luxury inflatable mattresses, special tents, portable chargers and floor mats – there’s an entire world of options available to customize your space!

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Before you go shopping, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the restrictions on items and what you can and can’t do at the site itself. For example, The Department of Parks’ guidelines for camping limit tent sizes to 15ft x 15ft (or 225 square feet), including awning.

No wood open fires are permitted; however, charcoal, propane or liquid fuel stoves are acceptable within a suitable metal container, but cooking in tents is prohibited. Generators are also prohibited, and no dogs or animals are permitted at your campsite.

Any noise must be kept to a minimum. The maximum stay in each campground is 8 weeks. The camping permit holder must place any garbage in the trash barrels allocated in the respective campground.

Lastly, throughout the camping season at the designated campsites, and when it is time to celebrate the Cup Match holiday, we encourage everyone to ensure that their sites, beaches, parks, and open spaces are kept in picturesque condition. A little effort makes a big difference!

For general information regarding our National Parks, including camping, animals, enforcement and legal issues, please visit https://www.gov. bm/department/parks or call 236-5902.

The post Setting Up Camp appeared first on RG Magazines.

Speaking with Major Duncan E R Simons, public relations officer, we got an in-depth look at what it takes to be prepared for this kind of national emergency. I had the opportunity to visit their training sites and observe how they are preparing for hurricane season even now by cutting back casuarina trees, getting some chainsaw experience in, mobilising into teams, and more.

When it comes to training and preparation to best handle a hurricane emergency, Major Simons explained that post-hurricane restoration is a coordinated effort between the Regiment and the wider emergency services community.

“For the Regiment, that effort is led by B Company,” he shared, “which has a remit of humanitarian aid and disaster response.

“In Bermuda, after a hurricane, the immediate challenge is ensuring our roads are passable. This involves using chainsaws to remove fallen trees along pre-determined routes to allow for the movement of emergency vehicles. Once that is complete, they action other tasks coordinated by the Emergency Measures Organisation.

“We organise ourselves into Immediate Response Teams (IRTs). Each IRT has up to 30 soldiers assigned to it. Key people include commanders, medics, signallers and chainsaw operators.”

“The IRTs have predetermined routes or areas of responsibility. For example, IRT 1 is assigned to St George’s. It will deploy across the Causeway before a storm and includes boats from the Coast Guard Unit.

“Everyone else is based out of Warwick Camp except, of course, the Coast Guard Unit which is based on Watford Island in Sandys. They pull their boats before storms arrive and they are back in the water at the earliest opportunity to conduct inspections, and search and rescue operations if required.”

To prepare for hurricane season, B Company runs an annual exercise in May of each year. “This involves reviewing our operational order in line with our Disaster Management Plan and setting up our Ops room and running it through an exercise scenario to remind key participants in our response of the standard procedures,” Major Simons explained.

It also means practising building shoring and allowing for enough time for soldiers to get chainsaw time. The RBR also invites the Occupational Health and Safety team from BELCO into

Warwick Camp to remind the soldiers of the risk and procedures around dealing with downed power lines.

Operating a chainsaw is as dangerous as operating a firearm, so it important that the RBR facilitates training for chainsaw operators. Many of the soldiers now hold City and Guilds qualifications in chainsaw operation. Those who have not yet completed the qualification will have undergone an internal training programme and are authorised by the Commanding Officer annually after annual refresher training.

“Over the coming two years, all of our operators will be City and Guilds qualified,” Major Simons assured.

The other component is inspecting all their kit and equipment to ensure it is operational. The Quartermaster and CO inspect the hurricane stores.

Another key part is confirming who is playing what role during a storm and making sure that contact information is current. Manning lists are constantly under review during hurricane season to avoid delays when soliders are called up.

When asked if there any other specific qualifications that are obtained by the RBR members, Major Simons delves further, “Our medics are trained to Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) or higher and most will have completed basic Combat Medic training. All Coast Guard personnel will have completed RYA (Royal Yachting Association) qualifications and have completed the equivalent of Bermuda’s marine pilot exams.”

Picking up on the idea of local support, the RBR obtains most of its equipment from local vendors and only imports items if they cannot be sourced locally.

If there one thing the RBR would like the public to know when preparing for hurricane season, it would be to take hurricanes seriously and to prepare in advance.

Aware this message can start to sound like a broken record, Major Simons emphasises: “I think as a country we do a respectable job, but we must guard against complacency. To make our job easier, and the job of the utilities easier, if you live on a road or if powerlines pass your property, please put in the effort to clear vegetation overhanging roads and near powerlines.”

The RBR actively recruits year-round, and it is not just to have more hands on deck when it comes to a national emergency.

“As always, I would encourage everyone in Bermuda to join the Regiment,” Major Simons slips in. “We do so much more than respond to hurricanes. As a military organisation, fundamentally, we are all about building effective teams to take on any task.

“We are a community that offers both lifelong professional and skills development and we will meet you where you are. As a primarily part-time reserve military, our people have the opportunity to develop a career parallel to their primary employment. In my view it is the best second job in Bermuda!”

The Regiment’s next recruit camp starts on July 7. Anyone interested in joining should visit RBR.BM to sign up, or call 238-1045 by the end of June.

The post Heroes in Uniform appeared first on RG Magazines.

In more recent years, there have been between two and three thousand Filipino guest workers living and working in Bermuda at any given time. They add to our society across the spectrum as everything from barbers and beauticians, to reinsurance professionals and accountants, adding a crucial element to Bermuda’s multicultural melting pot.

Ryan de Jesus, President of The Association of Filipinos in Bermuda (AFB), shares his first impression of Bermuda. “I remember on my first day here on the island, a lovely old woman greeted me with ‘Good morning, how’s your day?’ which we don’t do with strangers in our country. That moment sealed an impression that Bermudians have genuine hearts.”

The Association of Filipinos in Bermuda was formed in 1995 to help promote and foster unity among Filipinos residing and working in Bermuda. It aims to encourage and develop the skills and talents of its members through continuous social, cultural, athletic, and educational programmes.

Enticed to come to Bermuda by other nationalities, who are also guest workers here, the main reason our small island is attractive is that their talents and efforts – which make a vital contribution to Bermuda’s economy – are well compensated. Importantly, some of the other factors that made Bermuda an appealing place to relocate to are: our friendly populous, the peaceful environment, and the natural “paradise” of our climate, flora, and fauna.

After a brief hiatus, the Filipino community will once again be participating in the Heritage Day parade. It’s been documented that they first joined the Bermuda Day Parade in 1997, however, some older Filipino residents have said that there were some Filipinos that joined prior to that year. However, as it wasn’t documented at the time, we’re uncertain as to the actual date.

For some background, the origin of many of the early festivals in the Philippines are rooted in Christianity (dating back to the Spanish colonial period where the festivals were vital in spreading Christianity throughout the country). They also tend to feature Islamic or Indigenous influences; and the festivals can still be religious, cultural, or both. These festivals are held to honor the local Roman Catholic Patron Saint, to commemorate local history and culture, to promote the community’s products, or to celebrate a bountiful harvest.

The Philippines has been called ‘The Capital of the World’s Festivities,’ and with hundreds of festivals from the village level, up to the town, city, provincial, and national level celebrations throughout the country, it seems that should be an official title!

Speaking with him about their plans for this year’s parade, I get a sense that Bermuda has something to look forward to.

“We’ll share the festival street dance and music this year,” he notes excitedly. “Festivals are an important part of Philippine culture. These festivals are celebrated throughout the year.”

Here in Bermuda, this year the Filipino group will showcase a mixed festival presentation which combines the festival for a bountiful harvest, and a cultural celebration. In Philippine tradition, May is ‘Flores de Mayo,’ or the month of flowers, thus they plan to use flowers to be their hand props and decorations in their headdresses. They plan to pair the decorations with the ethnic festival beat usually used when street dancing in the Philippines. Will we see the distinctive, traditional dress for males and females in the procession this year? Perhaps learn a dance or two? Let’s see what their presentation this year has to offer!

For those of you who attended Bermuda Institute’s Intercultural Festival on May 9th, you got a small taste of the costumes, dance, and heritage that the AFB may be exhibiting for all of Bermuda soon. You can check out the Subli, Bulaklakan, and Mamang Sorbetero dances on the AFB’s Facebook page.

When asked how important it was to retain their culture while making a life here, Ryan answers, “We believe that retaining our own culture is vital in our lives, because this will make us feel connected to our roots, and also helps maintain our sense of identity and belonging. Nonetheless, we value and cherish the Bermudian culture.”

When asked if they feel that Filipinos are becoming more Bermudian by assimilating into our culture, or if they feel that they are more influencing Bermudian culture, Ryan answers in a very personal, respectable way. “I feel like I’m becoming more Bermudian, or I already adapted the friendly/good manner of being a Bermudian, which is greeting everyone you meet out on the street whether you know them or not.”

If there was a singular thing that Ryan thinks Bermudians should know about Filipinos as a whole, it would be that they are very optimistic people. “We Filipinos are hopeful. In general, Filipinos are incredibly light in spirit, and we are very good at finding the silver lining in our lives.”

It seems they integrate seamlessly. Thank you for enriching our culture.

The post Warm Smiles and Optimism appeared first on RG Magazines.

The Augustus family’s goal has been “to provide quality services that honor the memory of your family members and friends.” They are proud to say that, while they have grown physically and expanded their services, their commitment to the community has remained the same. Today, with everything from a traditional cedar casket to photo urns on offer alongside their reputation for service and affordability, they are proud to be a part of Bermuda’s community.

D.H. Augustus & Sons Funeral Home was formed as a career decision by the late David Henry August after attending the Berkeley Institute, and then working in the construction industry as a mason for several years. With support from his parents, David Nathanial and Mary Augustus (who had migrated to Bermuda from St. Kitts prior to the birth of their sons), Mr Augustus studied overseas and received a degree from the New York School of Embalming, qualifying him as a licensed funeral director and embalmer. Empowerment, education, and community seem to be a theme for this family, as David Nathanial was a shareholder in the Bermuda Recorder and a Trustee for the Devonshire Recreational Club.

After returning to Bermuda, Mr Augustus found work at various construction sites, and even drove taxi, as professional work in his field was hard to find. Along with ‘his family’ from the West Indies (specifically St Kitts and Montserrat), he had to endure being ostracized here in Bermuda, and most of the early business was from fellow West Indians who had relocated here. Despite the challenges, David Henry and his wife, the former Pauline Caesar, raised five sons: David, Calvin, Derick, Raymond, and Gary.

When David Henry secured enough money to start his own business, it was in a three-room one-story building that was located on Park Street in Hamilton, across from Victoria Park. Today, that location is where the Dallas Building stands.

Mr Augustus later purchased a building on Elliott Street, located between Court and Princess Street. In later years the building was sold and is a residential dwelling today. As the business grew, Mr Augustus later purchased a two-bedroom house one block away and relocated the business to where it remains to this very day.

This is truly a family business. After twenty-seven years of business, David Henry was assisted fulltime by his oldest son, David Eugene. D.E. Augustus followed in his father’s footsteps, attending the American Academy McAllister Institute (AAMI) in the US. During this period, both father and son supplemented their income by driving taxi part time, and doing odd jobs.

As the business grew, Mr Augustus’ son, the late Raymond Augustus ended his career in the hotel industry to join the family business. In addition, grandson David achieved his license in 1998 from McAllister, and also returned home to assist full time in the business.

Through all the ups and downs, Mrs Pauline Augustus stood by her husband throughout his career, ensuring that he had the tools to make it through the day. As a housewife she prepared three meals a day for him, assisted him in the business, and cared for their five boys – all while working part time outside of the home.

She recalls a time at the beginning of the business, she walked from Friswell’s Hill to the construction site that her husband was working at in Devonshire Bay to deliver an important telephone message to him regarding a funeral. If there were pedometers in those days, she would probably have broken a record!

True to its name, D.H. Augustus & Sons Funeral Home have the assistance of many family members who help it to achieve its goal and motto. Today, the immediate Augustus family business consists of mom Pauline as overseer, with fulltime funeral directors David Eugene and David Shannon Augustus alongside Malike Richardson, who also attended AAMI.

Keeping it in the family, grandson Derek Jr is the Office Administrator with two assistants, and brother Derek Augustus Sr is the carpenter who makes the coffins. Brothers Calvin and Gary serve as Trustees, while uncles St. Clair (Sonny) and the late Alfred previously assisted as family employees.

The family has big plans for the future, including digitizing their records, offering a variety of programs, hosting quality video services, and internal upgrades. They already cater to different faiths, offer non-traditional burial services, and can handle everything from placing obituaries in the local media to creating DVD memorials, and ordering personalized monuments.

They still have it all in the family, but are moving with the times. Another venture the family engages in is a takeout restaurant which offers catering services. The restaurant is co-owned, operated, and solely managed by brother Gary, assisted part time by brother Calvin.

With their goal to “Continue to achieve the highest of standards with compassion, confidentiality, and dignity and affordable service” today the Augustus Funeral Home provides numerous traditional and personalized services to meet the desires of each family. They’ve been doing it for over seven decades, and are truly thankful to all who have supported them over the years.

The post True Sympathy and Sincere Service appeared first on RG Magazines.

“I counter this by believing that you can do far more things well if you have the capacity and initiative to do them,” Buddy explains in reference to the poor advice above. “Overall, I would not change a thing. I had the best tutorage working my way up through the business. I have enjoyed watching the real estate industry across the island develop, especially now where there is a heightened sense of professionalism and maturation of the practice of real estate, and now our company having three generations of leadership in the fold.”

The Rego family arrived from the Azores in 1915, and worked in the farming industry. In his teenage years, Benjamin ‘Benny’ Rego Sr began working with Morris (M.A.) Gibbons. In 1949 he went out on his own and founded the Rego Agency. The agency opened its doors with four employees and agents, spanning residential rentals, sales, and property auctions.

What made the business so successful, according to Benny’s son, Benjamin “Buddy” Rego Jr, was his father’s strong work ethic, and entrepreneurial drive. When reflecting on his father’s tenacity, he shares, “He created opportunities for people to own real estate who otherwise thought it impossible.”

The firm was the developer, listing, and selling agent behind numerous condominium complexes and residential communities island wide; most notably pulling the 100-acre site of Southampton Princess together to sell to American billionaire Daniel K. Ludwig in 1959, who went on to build the original Southampton Princess Hotel in 1972.

Evidence shows that the enterprising vein runs in the family. Buddy recalls his father asking him if he ever planned to return to Bermuda. “I said I would if there was an opportunity to be self-employed, and if he would sell the company to me.”

In 1983, after working as a Currency and Precious Metals Trading Manager in Hong Kong, Buddy returned to the island after purchasing Rego Limited from his father. As the new President of the 10-person company, Buddy expanded the business.

“It was an exciting time as a young person in Bermuda to make a difference in the competitive real estate industry,” Buddy reminisces, adding further, “In more recent decades, we’ve advanced through providing valuations, commercial real estate and diversification of people and services.”

In 2006, Rego Realtors was invited by Sotheby’s International Realty to join its global network. This made the newly named Rego Sotheby’s International Realty one of the brand’s earliest founding members outside the United States.

“Our prominent heritage of 75 years in Bermuda’s real estate market is a major contributor in our present performance and future outlook.”  Penny MacIntyre, Partner added, “The depth and transactional track record of our residential, commercial and hotel/tourism sales and rentals activities, coupled with our experienced agents are equally attracting repeat, and new clients, and the foundation for our next generation of top agents.”

Adaptability has been the key to their longevity in the real estate industry. “It’s impossible to predict what will happen five years from now with how quickly the industry moves,” Buddy acknowledges. “Our challenge, and our responsibility, is to keep on the forefront of whatever change is upon us, with an emphasis on technology and best practices.”

Moving forward, the third generation of Rego joined the company as an agent in 2017, in the person of Ben Rego, Buddy’s son. After working at a Boston affiliate office, Ben offers international experience and a competitive edge. Confident that he would return to the island ready to grab the baton, Ben says, “After learning from top agents here and in Boston, I now see with a much wider lens – to encourage and support our talented agents as they build their book of business for years to come.”

The different management styles of the three Rego men is what sets them apart from each other, but a solid work ethic and enterprising spirit pulls them together. Emphasizing that adaptability is a part of their mantra, Buddy mentions, “Our ability to retain and attract people is not because we only do things the old-fashioned way. Evolution is an integral part of being a successful business in a collaborative arena.”

When asked about his aspirations for the future of real estate, Ben replies, “To continue to be a place where both local and international investors have confidence in the future direction of this spectacular island, and that the industry continues to be a pillar of innovation and technology to best serve our clients’ needs.” Noble goals.

Business and charitable collaborations have been ingrained through the company’s history into today. They actively volunteer on several committees, and its team members serve on various Boards of developments, businesses, and charities.

The company’s all Bermudian/Spouse of Bermudian team is focused on giving back. 100% of the company’s charitable giving is spent in Bermuda. They are proud of one of their most rewarding programs, their coveted annual summer internship program, which invites serious students to experience Bermuda’s real estate market firsthand.

Also, many have received their start in real estate within the company, and are now running their own businesses. “We have a number of veteran employees and agents who have shown their commitment to us because, I believe, they appreciate the sense of community and the sense of family we’ve established here,” Buddy shares.

As they consider the future, I asked what legacy they would want to leave behind. Buddy responds, “I hope that looking back, that we have upheld our strong family tradition of a hard work ethic and that we have added to the fabric of Bermuda society in our own way by helping generations of Bermudians achieve their goals of homeownership, which is often the biggest dream anyone can ever have.”

The post A Piece of the Rock appeared first on RG Magazines.

Eco-friendly home cleaning is still on the rise, which is essentially using cleaning products that are sustainably sourced and contain ingredients that are safe for the environment. Experts have developed new formulas for green cleaning products that have the ability to kill most bacteria and viruses known to date without the use of toxic chemicals. Businesses who utilize green solutions are viewed as innovators and are supported by many existing and potential clients. 

Ryan Faries of Bermuda Cleaning Limited answered some common questions about eco-friendly cleaning, with reassurance that if you don’t feel comfortable making your own products, there are some options for you as well. 

“Eco-friendly products, when used correctly, can be very effective,” Ryan divulged. “They are made without harsher chemicals so they can be great for everyday use around the house. However, it is always important to read the labels carefully and ensure the products you are using are the right fit for your home and family’s needs.” 

So, yes, there are products you can purchase already made, or you can make your own recipe depending on your needs. According to Ryan, household items such as baking soda, salt, cornflour, vinegar, and lemons can all be used to tackle tough stains when applied correctly. However, it’s important to purchase (or make) the correct solution depending on your needs. 

“You must always ensure you have correctly read the manufacturers guidelines before applying any type of cleaner on any surface, especially natural stone,” urges Ryan. “If you’re making your own solution, be certain that it’s safe for the surface you want to clean.” 

THE THREE-FOLD BENEFITS OF ECO-CLEANING 

Do you want to save money? Ryan shared that when buying in concentration and diluting the products, it’s an effective cleaning method whilst also drastically reducing the overall use of plastic. 

Do you want to be more sustainable with your home cleaning? Try using different household kitchen items that work for your home and surfaces. Clean with reusable microfiber cloths that can be washed instead of discarded. Reuse your plastic bottles and of course recycle whenever possible! 

Do you want to help the environment? Ryan quipped, “Crumbs make a pie, every little bit helps, one small process at a time. No better way to start eco cleaning than right now.” 

ECO-FRIENDLY CLEANING SUPPLIES 

One should note that pairing green cleaning products with eco-friendly supplies is a natural evolution of this process. Products like rubber gloves, sponges, plastic scrub brushes and paper towels can all contribute to environmental issues. Better options for cleaning tools are made with biodegradable materials, some of which even last longer than their conventional counterparts (for example Swedish dishcloths – which are fabricated from a combination of cotton and wood pulp). 

Now you are sufficiently motivated to start eco-cleaning yourself, right? If you want to incorporate eco-friendly cleaning into your daily routine, Ryan has some simple advice for you. 

“Start by stocking the correct Eco-products (sold at Bermuda Janitorial Supply or online at www.bermudajanitoiral.bm),” he shared. 

“Once you have the correct products for your home you can begin your routine cleaning methods that will evolve into other environmentally benefitting processes such as recycling, dilution systems, and reducing the use of single use plastics.” 

The post Taking the Path to being Eco-Friendly appeared first on RG Magazines.

Jodi Virgil of Organize Solutions Bermuda (OSB) is a believer that our outer environment often reflects what is happening within us and within our lives. “This is why our solutions are customised to meet the realities of our clients,” she explained. 

When it comes to spring cleaning, or even getting organized in general, it can seem a momentous task. Where do you start? What do you keep? Should you try and sell anything? Jodi provided some guidance on how to take on this daunting, but necessary, process. 

“By asking what’s working for the client,” she explained, “it allows us a baseline of success, which is the first step in inspiring and motivating our clients.” 

The next step is to inquire about which part of the house bothers the client the most – the space that’s most annoying to them. That gives an idea of where to start because most people want to solve a problem and feel good about it – and that’s what the organizing professionals at OSB want, too! 

TIPS FOR DECLUTTERING 

“When it comes to decluttering, start with items that are less sentimental,” Jodi suggests. “This allows you to build your decluttering muscles and get used to the process a bit, to build up to the bigger items that might be a bit more sentimental.” 

If you want to do a cleaning and organizing blitz yourself, here is Jodi’s top ten list of least sentimental items to throw out or donate: 

1. Expired foods 

2. Expired medications 

3. Broken items – Furniture, bags, glass 

4. Old wires and electronics 

5. One-at-a time items (cutlery, mugs, towels, sheets) 

6. Old decorations 

7. Appliances no longer used 

8. Shoes that are no longer comfortable or safe 

9. Clothing that does not make you feel fabulous! 

10. Old pens, markers that do not work anymore 

JODI STILL USES THE “OSB METHOD” IN HER WORK. Perhaps it could work for you, too! 

O: OBSERVE 

1. Step back and figure out why YOUR clutter is developing 

S: SET THE SCENE (Declutter) 

1. Sort: Figure out what you have and place “like items” together 

2. Keep, Donate, Dispose (Declutter) 

3. Find a place (Organize) 

4. Choose organizational solutions (Organize) (Storage Tools) 

a. Functionality first (fit space? Large enough?) 

b. Aesthetics (colour, texture, material, transparency) 

B: BREAKTHROUGH – How do we KEEP the system? 

1. Find a time for maintenance – think of if it like a car 

2. Do you work best daily or weekly, or both? Mornings, evenings, or both? 

3. Block out longer times for larger projects, like for a tune up or full service 

When asked if she encourages any services or platforms in Bermuda to utilize while going through this process, Jodi answered enthusiastically, “We have such an engaging and vibrant thrifting culture in Bermuda. There are so many thrift stores, donation-based organisations, and second-hand stores that give folks opportunities to share their abundance with others.” 

“We have also seen an upsurge in ‘fast fashion awareness’ to help encourage folks to make different decisions when purchasing items and move away from the ‘one and done’ philosophy when it comes to clothing.” 

“There has been a higher focus on environmental considerations as well which can cause us to make different consumer-based decisions. And if someone chooses to sell their items online or in a consignment manner, I think that is great!” 

If you need a boost in your cleaning and organizing efforts, why not give her a call at 704-3725?

The post DECLUTTERING & ORGANIZATION IDEAS appeared first on RG Magazines.