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SUMMER 2016 BERMUDAPARENT.BM
Balance
Screen Time Better
FREE
What Parents are Talking About
Should you leave the AC on for
your pet?
Outsmarting Your Kids
SMART DEVICES
Purina Cutest Kids and Pets Photo Contest pictures inside
Wrap your newborn in comfort and protection so all he feels is
love.
Š2014 P&G
Wrap your baby in the blanket-like softness of Pampers Swaddlers. The wetness indicator lets you know when it might be time for a change. And for our best gentle clean, try Pampers Sensitive Wipes.
want to know more?
Ministry of National Security
THE DEPARTMENT FOR NATIONAL DRUG CONTROL
Department for National Drug Control
Suite 304, Melbourne House 11 Parliament Street Hamilton Hm 12 Bermuda gov.bm 441-292-3049
RESOURCES 441-295-5982 | cada.bm
Report of the Survey of Middle and Senior School Students on Alcohol, Tobacco, Other Drugs, and Health
441-295-9970 | pridebermuda.bm Ministry of Community, Culture and Sports Department of Child and Family Services
441-296-7548 | gov.bm
Demographic Profile of Survey Respondents
The target population comprised all students in grade levels M2 through S4, attending public, private, and home schools on the Island. In total 3,017 students (53% females, 46% males) completed the self-administered questionnaire; the majority of whom considered themselves as Black (53%). 7 out of 10 reported use of at least one drug in their lifetime
Report Highlights
71%
thought that “smoking marijuana sometimes” is harmful
14 ½
Males were more likely to use cigarettes, inhalants, and other illegal drugs
93%
of the student perceived “smoking cigarettes frequently” to be the most harmful behaviour
females were more likely to use alcohol
is the Average age of initiation for marijuana use
Most students got alcohol and marijuana from friends
40%
of the students indicated that Of the illicit drugs, marijuana seemed to be the easiest drug to obtain
MARIJUANA USE WAS ABOUT THE SAME FOR BOTH MALES AND females
18%
46%
of Students believe that drugs are in the area surrounding their school
14% of the students have been suspended from school,
making this the most prevalent
antisocial behaviour
39% say drugs are at their schooL
39%
believe that students bring, try, or deal with drugs at their school
personally have seen a student selling or giving drugs at their school
13%
of the students have been in a car…
19%
PERSONALLY HAVE SEEN A STUDENT Using drugs at or around the school
7%
driven by someone who had been drinking alcohol on a bike…
1 2 3
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www.butterfieldgroup.com Butterfield Asset Management Limited is licensed to conduct Investment business by the Bermuda Monetary Authority. Address: 65 Front Street, Hamilton HM12, Bermuda.
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28
Contents Departments
BABY
8
Be Well Post-Partum
7 Tips for a healthy recovery.
LITTLE ONES
12
Balance Screen Time Better
Simple tips for a happier family.
22 46
Should You Leave the AC on for Your Pet? It’s a question that bothers us all if you really think about it. Read some of the thoughts here!
In Every Issue 18 REAL STORIES,
BIG KIDS
16
REAL FAMILIES
Youth Camera Action
Bermuda National Gallery focuses on art, fun and personal growth.
TWEENS & TEENS
22 FUN WITH FOOD 40 ASK A FINANCIAL ADVISOR 52 CUTEST KIDS AND PETS PHOTO CONTEST
26 Helping Teens Cope with Grief
57 BIRTHDAYS 60 BPM KIDS
Dr. Simons gives us some tips to help young people deal with grief.
16
28 Outsmarting Your Kids’ Smart Devices
Cybertips.bm has provided us with great tips for all ages.
54
Cutest Kids and Pets
Photo Contest page 52
FAMILY LIFE
32
Summer Splash
34
Spin Your Way into Fitness
3 great beach and pool tips to remember.
Pauletta Francis shares her success with spinning to keep fit.
36
On the Cover Alexa Correia and Cody Location: Home Residence Photo by: Sarah E Photography
10 Questions to Ask Your Child’s Camp Operators Safe Bermuda gives us the questions we should really be asking our kids’ camp operators.
Winning Photo Congrats Alexa
editor’s note
What Parents are Talking About
What would summer be without picnics,
PUBLISHER & EDITOR
44
Happy Parenting!
Publisher & Editor
p. 36
Katrina Ball B U S I N E S S CO N S U LTA N T
Vic Ball PHOTO BY JESSII TERRA
time at the beach and pools, summer camps, travel and so much more. Yes, as a parent it can be arduous just thinking and planning outings but, if we really were to admit it, we look forward to it just as much. Think - no homework, a chance for you and your child to reconnect and improve your relationship. Brenda Dale gives us great tips for being in and around water when having fun this summer. Safe Camps Bermuda provided us with the questions you should be asking your camp counselors and anyone else who may be ‘care-taking’ your child. Digital devices have become a part of our lives and our kids lives. Cybertips.bm have provided us with information on how to outsmart your kids devices this summer! Remember, because we live in a technological driven society, children still require hands on items to manipulate and plenty of outdoor activities. We are the guides of our children. They watch our every step and follow everything we do – whether we like it or not. p. Be sure to check out the photos sent in for our Cutest Kids and Pet Contest. To all parents who sent in photos of their children, it was very hard picking the final winners as they were all so cute!
A DV E R T I S I N G S A L E S
Wanda Brown wanda@knbmediagroup.com 333-1925 Alicia Resnik alicia@knbmediagroup.com 236-9218 D E S I G N & P RO D U C T I O N
Picante Creative W R I T E R S & CO N T R I B U TO R S
Jennifer Spithill, Carla Seely, Brenda Dale, Christa Hines, Cybertips.bm, BELCO, Argus, Tene Dowling, Dr. Renee Simons, John Doherty, Safe Camps Bermuda, Pauletta Francis, SPCA, Alicia Resnik CO N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R A P H E R S
Sarah E Photography, Cybertips.bm Bermuda Parent Magazine is published four times a year. Reader correspondence, photo submissions and editorial submissions are welcome. We reserve the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all material contributed. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without express written consent of the publisher. The opinions expressed by contributors or writers do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this magazine. Distribution of this product does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services herein. CO N TAC T U S
info@knbmediagroup.com Tel: 504-2937 www.bermudaparent.bm facebook.com/bdaparentmag
www.bermudaparent.bm
5
© 2013 RB
SWITCH TO SAVE this Summer
Give your refrigerator breathing room. Clean the coils and don’t set the temperature too low. The refrigerator should be kept between 38–42°F and the freezer between 0 – 5°F.
Maximize your savings by wrapping your electric water heater with an insulated blanket to help reduce heat loss. Integrate a timer to turn on when you need it.
Depending on the product (i.e. dehumidifiers, air conditioners, ceiling fans and TV’s), using certified Energy Star products can use between 20–50% less energy than other conventional models.
Hanging clothes to dry instead of using electricity to run the dryer is an easy way to reduce energy consumption.
SAVE MONEY THIS SUMMER BY FOLLOWING THESE ENERGY TIPS!
Phantom power can account for up to 20% of household electricity use. Plug electronics into a power bar with a timer or auto shut-off and make sure they are turned off during periods of inactivity.
www.belco.bm .
@BELCOBERMUDA
baby
BY CHRISTA MELNYK HINES
Be Well Postpartum
7 Tips for a Healthy Recovery 1
hroughout your pregnancy, you
eat the right foods, drink plenty
of fluids, rest and try to keep stress to a minimum. You might think once your baby arrives that you can relax your self-care regimen, but caring for
yourself should remain a top priority to ensure the health of both of you. 8
2
Drink plenty of water. For optimal recovery after delivery is fluid hydration with water. This is important for replenishing your body after significant fluid losses.
Nourish yourself. Before the baby arrives, assemble
healthy meals ahead of time to stash in your freezer. In the midst of caring for a newborn, you’ll be less likely to eat poorly when you can quickly pop a nutritious, readymade meal into the oven or crockpot. Also, stock up on protein-packed snacks to keep your energy up especially if you plan to breastfeed. Choose simple, healthy snacks like cheese sticks, almonds, rotisserie chicken, yogurt and energy bars. Consult with your physician to determine
3
4
how many extra calories you should be consuming each day according to your activity level, weight and if you choose to nurse.
5
Sleep when the baby sleeps. Those first days home
from the hospital, rest, rest, rest and spend as much time skin-toskin with your baby as you can, this will truly make for a smoother transition for baby from womb to room and for mama, as well.
Integrate gentle exercise.
Many moms are surprised that they still look pregnant after delivery. Don’t panic; that’s normal. Although the uterus decreases in size right away, you will still appear to be about five months pregnant when leaving the hospital. By following a healthy diet and exercising according to your doctor’s instructions, you’ll get back to your pre-pregnancy body. Many moms enjoy group exercise activities like Baby Boot Camp where you’ll also experience companionship with other moms. Walking is also beneficial. Not only will you get exercise, a stroll around the block on a sunny day will do wonders for your emotional well-being and give you a boost of vitamin D.
6
Take extra care if you’ve
had a cesarean delivery and only gradually increase your activity level according to your doctor’s instructions. Current recommendations include no driving the first two weeks postpartum and no heavy lifting (anything over 15 pounds) for the first six weeks.
Expect hormonal changes.
Many new moms feel overwhelmed, tired, anxious, tearful or mildly depressed. Exhaustion, hormonal changes and isolation after the birth of a baby may lead to what is referred to as ‘baby blues’. Talk to your doctor if symptoms persist for more than two weeks. Anxiety and depression can also be linked to thyroid issues, low levels of iron and vitamin D.
7
Don’t be afraid to ask for help or just a visit, often friends and family members are eager to assist by holding the baby or watching siblings to give you a chance to nap, shower, go for a walk or run an errand.
Nurture your spirit. You may be a mom now, but you aren’t only a mom. Take time to do the things that have always brought you personal fulfillment and joy, whether that’s crafting, relaxing in a warm bath, browsing at a boutique or lunching with a friend. When you are happier and healthier, your baby will be too.
www.bermudaparent.bm
9
MAKE JULY AN INVESTMENT IN SEPTEMBER.
Eagle Hill School runs a five-week boarding summer session for students ages 10-16 who are average to superior in cognitive ability and have been identified with specific language based learning (dis)abilities and/or Attention Deficit Disorder.
SUMMER SESSION June 27-July 29, 2016
www.eaglehill.school
Dr. Peter Perinchief
Dr. Sylvanus Nawab
ALL PHYSICIANS ARE ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS
Dr. Richard Fulton
For Appointments Call 295 8000
413-477-6000
Hardwick, MA
We believe in providing children with a safe environment where they can learn, explore, develop and grow. We believe that we are partners with parents in nurturing and caring for your children. We will teach them, guide them, befriend them and do our best for them. Little Learners Preschool offers several programs that help children grow into well rounded Learners who are ready to begin the formal years of their education by giving them a solid foundation into the joy of learning. We are excited to announce that we are now accepting babies from 3 months through 5 years old. Make an appointment to come by and see our new infant/toddler space beginning in May 2016! Enrollment is ongoing throughout the year.
Nurse Bernie Wilson www.facebook.com/EdgewoodPediatricsBDA @EdgewoodPedsBDA
13 Richmond Road • Hamilton HM08 • Tel 441 295 8000
w w w. e d g e w o o d p e d i a t r i c s . c o m
10
Email or call us at: infolittlelearners@northrock.bm OR (441) 292-8326 w w w. e d g e w o o d p e d i a t r i c s . c o m
Happy Days
are every day at
HAPPY MOMENTS Nursery & Preschool
Since 1998 Bermuda’s premier faith-based early learners’ program “where happy children learn for a brighter future”. We care about every aspect of your child’s school day within a safe social environment. Happy Moments Nursery & Preschool is keen on providing our students with lots of fun-filled explorative learning experiences. We believe in our students, assist in fulfilling each parent’s dream for their child and inspire each child in reaching their fullest potential Curriculum encourages academic excellence, creative teaching methods for each child’s unique learning style. We offer Spanish, computer, music & EYP with BNG, BUEI and more. Teachers certified in ECE, CPR, First Aid and SCARS.
Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. happymomentsnews@yahoo.com or 737-8385.
Accepting students for 2016/2017/2018 school year. 18 months - 5 yrs.
www.bermudaparent.bm
11
little ones
BY CHRISTA MELNYK HINES
Balance
SCREEN TIME Better
Simple Tips for a Happier Family
With mobile devices readily available anywhere and everywhere, striking a healthy balance between online and in-person interaction is difficult for today’s families. How do we find a happy medium between quality family time and the siren song generated from the pixelated forest of apps, games and social media? According to Common Sense Media, mobile media use among children, ages zero to eight years old, has doubled from 38 percent to 72 percent since 2011. On average, kids spend a little over an hour a day on the devices, downloading apps, playing games and watching videos. “Perhaps my biggest concern about the overuse of technology in families is ‘opportunity costs,’ which is an economic term that means that time spent in front of a screen is time not spent engaging in healthier and more meaningful activities such as family time, exercise, faith, cultural, education, etcetera,” says Dr. Jim Taylor, psychologist and author of Raising Generation Tech.
Find your middle ground. Overexposure to media can lead to poor school performance, obesity, sleep deprivation and invasions of privacy. But, banning kids from technology can effectively shut down conversations about appropriate media use, spurring kids to sneak around, creating accounts and playing games on friends’ devices where you have no oversight. “Technology use becomes unhealthy when it hurts physical or mental health, relationships, school work or healthy avocations like sports, music and charity,” Taylor says. “The bottom line is that technology should be the exception and not the rule: a tool, not a toy.” Use time wisely. Make the most out of the time your child engages with technology by choosing educational apps and games. Although kids may be attracted to games featuring casino-like sounds and colors, these weren’t developed for kids and they can be addictive. “It’s important that you dictate the way your child goes down the path of gaming. I’m not a big fan of allowing kids free rein of time wasters because that’s just sunken time,” says David Lord, CEO of JumpStart, a gaming company that produces learning games for kids like the popular MathBlaster app. Be a healthy role model. A 2012 Google study found that 90 percent of us engage in multiple screens at once like watching television while also scrolling through a smartphone. Kids will follow your lead when it comes to how
Control the games and apps that your child downloads by implementing a parent-controlled password into your device. Some electronic devices and software allow you to set time limits on games and online activity. Check out Common Sense Media.org for reviews of apps, games and other media. 12
you interact with electronics. Become conscious of how much you use technology and if you engage with technology in a healthy way. Designate tech-free spaces. Silence or put away electronics during homework and chore time and during family-oriented activities. Meals in particular present a rich opportunity to connect with your kids without electronic distractions. “We no longer plant vegetables or quilt on the front porch together so meal time is one of the few times of the day when a family connects with one another,” says Dr. Anne Fishel, author of Home for Dinner: Mixing Food, Fun and Conversation for a Happier Family and Healthier Kids. “If family members are distracted by checking their phones and other screens, they miss out on the chance to really focus on each other, and convey that essential message––‘you come first.’” Studies find that families who eat dinner together experience lower rates of substance abuse, depression and teen pregnancy. Kids who regularly eat dinner with their families are also more likely to have higher self-esteem, better grades and even stronger vocabularies. Set limits. “Cell phones, computers, the Internet and tablets are not rights––they are privileges. And like any privileges they need parameters and rules for their use,” says Dr. Michael Osit, a child psychologist and author of Generation Text: Raising Well-Adjusted Kids in the Age of Instant Everything. “Be firm with time limits and content limits.” If you have trouble keeping track of how much time your kids spend playing video or computer games, set a timer. “Only one hour a day or only after other important priorities have been fulfilled like homework and household chores,” Taylor advises. The lights and sounds electronic devices make can interfere with quality sleep. Collect your kids’ phones and electronic devices at bedtime and plug them into a main charging station in your home.
Plan ahead. Decide when, where and for how long you will allow computer time––mobile or otherwise––during the week. Also consider the amount of television your family watches. Plan which TV shows your children can watch during the week to avoid mindlessly turning to television whenever boredom sets in. Viewing family-oriented shows together can invite conversation opportunities like “What would you do if something like that happened to you or one of your friends?” To prepare for unplugged times, meet as a family to come up with alternate activities that you and your kids can enjoy that aren’t screen-related. For example, go on a family walk, play board games, toss the football, ride bikes, build, read, cook, draw or explore your community. Engage with technology together. According to researchers at Arizona State University, gaming together offers teachable moments to share values and explore creative problem solving. “Parents miss a huge opportunity when they walk away from playing video games with their kids. Many video games are meant to be shared and can teach young people about science, literacy and problem solving,” says researcher Elisabeth Hayes, Delbert & Jewell Lewis Chair in Reading & Literacy and professor in ASU’s Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College. Use technology together in other ways to strengthen communication skills and creativity. Invite your child to Facetime or Skype with grandparents. Show her how to start a private blog about one of her favorite subjects. Take digital photos together and collaborate on a photo book or a calendar. By taking a proactive, balanced approach to technology with boundaries firmly in place, you can focus on using technology to complement rather than control your life while growing closer and happier as a family. Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband are the parents of two boys who are charmed by all things digital. Christa’s latest book is Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.
www.bermudaparent.bm
13
Parent Resources Do you have a child from age birth to 4?
•
Play-based screenings for 24 – 30 month old children Parent and Children’s Book Library Toy Library
Are you a Home Child Care Provider and would like resources to help you to care for young children?
ALSO AVAILABLE:
Call the Child Development Programme 295-0746 ext. 2221
PArEntIng wOrkShOPS:
• • • • • •
Parent Infant Group Premature Infant Programme 1,2,3,4 Parents! 1,2,3 Magic
Child Care Provider Workshops tOPICS AVAILABLE: • • • • •
Motor Development Developmentally Appropriate Programming Bonding: Early Steps to Attachment Behaviour Management Language Learning
Plus more...
Participation in services is voluntary and resources are free to the public!
n ce e ll e c x E g in ir p s n I a n d Lea de rship BHS offers every opportunity for girls to shine. The Bermuda High School for Girls is dedicated to supporting and guiding how girls learn best. We provide a supportive and nurturing environment that empowers girls to take centre stage, to express themselves, and to take positive and healthy risks. This allows them to become confident, responsible and resilient young women, ready to face today’s rapidly changing world.
For more information on The Bermuda High School for Girls, please contact: Mrs. Kurte Loescher Director of Admissions and Inclusion Tel: (441) 278-3047 Email: kloescher@bhs.bm
The Bermuda High School for Girls 19 Richmond Road Pembroke HM 08 Tel: (441) 295-6153 Fax: (441) 278-3017
www.bhs.bm
should be comfortable. If you are experiencing discomfort or you have concerns about , contact us. We’ve been mothers for almost three decades. Email islandgirl@northrock.bm or check us out on Facebook at La Leche League of Bermuda.
www.bermudaparent.bm
15
big kids
BY LISA HOWIE, DIRECTOR OF BERMUDA NATIONAL GALLERY
YOUTH CAMERA ACTION at Bermuda National Gallery
A Focus on Art, Fun, and Personal Growth 16
In 2009 the Bermuda National Gallery and Family Centre partnered to empower middle school children in Bermuda to use their vision and voice through photography. Youth Camera Action was born out of a shared mission that took inspiration from the transformative experience documented in the film Born into Brothels (2004). The Bermuda National Gallery and Family Centre agreed that a programme dedicated to using the camera as a tool for self expression and personal growth was as relevant and necessary in India as in Bermuda. The focus for Youth Camera Action (YCA) continues to be children ages 11 – 14 years old. In YCA, students learn the basic principles of composition and photography, how to use the various functions of a digital camera, including the manual mode. Participants learn creative strategies, travel to various locations to practice their skills, and develop a portfolio of images. Since starting in 2009 YCA has reached almost 1,000
students. YCA continues to partner with Family Centre and has, over the years, offered special programmes to Dellwood Middle School, Bermuda High School, and the Sunshine League Foundation, while offering teacher training to the Ministry of Education and Bermuda Union of Teachers. Partners for site specific photography are the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum & Zoo and the National Museum of Bermuda. Because of high interest, the programme has expanded and now offers introductory and intermediate levels, which include filmmaking and stop-motion photography. Special themed weeks for intermediate students this year include: Botanicals; Exploring Heroism; Photography Phenomena; and Social-Political Activism. The 2016 YCA Photography Summer Camp is now open for registration at www.bng.bm or by calling 295-9428. Spaces are limited. To celebrate 7 years of youth creativity, a YCA Photography Book is in the making. Stay tuned for more. To learn more about the YCA programme, please visit: www.bng.bm PHOTOGRAPHY SUMMER CAMPS designed for middle school youth available July & August Open to all levels - All equipment supplied Learn more at
www.bng.bm
education@bng.bm 295-9428 City Hall & Arts Centre, Church Street, Hamilton
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11/10/15 6:46 PM
Real Families, Real Stories
BY TENE DOWLING
From Childhood to
Adulthood
The Story of Life With ADHD Have you ever felt, lost, misunderstood, alone, easily distract? Often jump from task to task without completing one or fail to complete task all together? Spend hours daydreaming and get nothing accomplished? Easily frustrated and find it hard to focus? Unorganized or forget appointments? Take hours to find something to wear or feel that your life is just full of clutter? Welcome to the past 25 years of my life. At the age of six I was diagnosed with AD(H)D (Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder) and classified as a product of my environment. Behavioral issues became evident while I was in preschool and into primary school. Once I was diagnosed, I was prescribed medication that many are familiar with called Ritalin. I continued struggling academically and emotionally at home and school. I was put out of class, singled out by teachers and peers, fighting, never completing my homework and always ended up in the principles office. Throughout the years growing up, I was labeled as a problem child, disruptive, and rude. Educators and even my 18
own parents undoubtedly misunderstood me. I constantly felt alone, with no support nor help. I felt that nobody genuinely had an interest in listening, understanding or supporting the challenges I was faced with. As I got older, I was placed on different medication helping me to deal with my daily struggles but there was little change. There was even one point were I thought it was clever enough to run away from home. Eventually my mom pulled me out of the public school system and placed me in homeschool; it was a good move. I was settled and got on with my studies with less distractions and more support. Homeschool provided the one on one attention that I needed and I ended up moving up a grade because of my academic performance. At the age of six-teen I completed high school and graduated. As I entered adulthood I began to research different methods to aid me in coping with my AD(H)D. I began on the natural route taking different supplements but I did not feel it was effective. I accepted that with AD(H)D was something that I had to embrace. I decided to return to school and my medication. Although it was only a vocational course I struggled greatly, but with the support of my mother I finished my studies. I returned home and to work, but I still found it a chal-
lenge to deal with ADHD as an adult. Eventually I lost my job and found out I was pregnant. After being in and out of work for so long, I found myself even more unfocused. Experiencing these difficulties in my daily life led me down the wrong road, it clouded my judgment and I made some mistakes that I cannot make up for. From then, I was determined to take the correct measures and learning opportunities to enable me to help others like myself. I decided to volunteer my time by helping in the community and became an educational coach with Mirrors Bermuda; a program designed by Government to help the youth in the school systems. While on this course it opened my eyes to many things that I was not privy to through the eyes of the youth I was working with; from then on my life changed. I was able to see and understand what some children go through, and being able to relate to them was terrifying. I was able to acknowledge through this program, as a child all I really wanted was somebody to listen to me, somebody to support me and most of all my parents to love me. Experiencing the pain and confusion first hand while listening to these children’s stories, thoughts and feelings helped me to understand where most of my problems stemmed. Unfortunately, when I was their age these resources and programs were not available and I wish they were. After the participation of this program, I was certain that I wanted to give back to the community by being more involved with youth. My goal is to become educated within the field, so that I can provide professional help for children/ adolescence as well as for parents. This experience has helped provide the necessary skills and emotional understanding to become a better woman and mother to my daughter. I have since decided to move abroad to focus on my journey alone. I believe that I now have a purpose in life and I am determined to pursue it. I still struggle daily as a mother and student but I am determined that my learning challenges will not control my life. I know there are many who struggle with similar challenges, who are lost and feel alone and I hope that my story
motivates them. This isn’t only aimed at persons challenged with AD(H)D but to anyone who feels that they want to give up. That was something I struggled with; I was afraid of speaking up about my challenges, I was afraid to ask for help out of fear of being labeled or judged due to society’s lack of knowledge. Keep on pushing and dig deep, and learn to embrace circumstances that are beyond your control. Today I am studying towards a degree for a BSc in Psychology and with a pathway towards an MSc Psychology of Child and Adolescent Development. Successfully overcoming this learning disability is the light at the end the tunnel and hope my journey can continue to inspire others not to give up on his or her dreams for the future. I am open to any feedback, comments or even if you want to reach out for any encouragement or support. Feel free to reach out because you are not alone. Tene can be reached at t.alexandria.d@ gmail.com
Making Memories That Will Last A Lifetime
Pure water is clean, refreshing and free of impurities. It’s the healthy choice for the whole family for a healthier life style. Your body loses water during the day. It is essential to replenish it to get proper hydration to maintain your body’s mental and physical performance.
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19
CATELLI® PASTA....delicious taste that families have loved since 1867. CATELLI® offers a line-up of delicious pasta products to make budget friendly gourmet family meals.
Pepperoni Pizza Pasta • 1 package CATELLI® Spaghetti • 1½ cups sliced deli pepperoni • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion • 1 chopped green pepper • 1 teaspoon each dried oregano and basil leaves • 2 cups pizza sauce (approx.) • 2 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese • 2 beaten eggs • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese • 2 cups sliced mushrooms (optional)
Asian Style Fettuccine • 3 green onions, in fine strips • Salt and pepper to taste • 1/3 cup fresh coriander, coarsely chopped • 1 red bell pepper, in strips • 1 package CATELLI® Fettuccine • 1/3 cup hoisin sauce • 3 tablespoon chicken broth • 2 chicken breasts, boned and skinned • 6 tablespoon roasted peanuts, coarsely chopped • 2 tablespoon canola oil
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Cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain well. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Slice all but 1/4 cup (50 mL) of the pepperoni into thin strips. Stir the pepperoni strips, onion, green pepper, mushrooms (if using), oregano, basil, pizza sauce, half of the cheese, eggs and Parmesan in a large bowl until well combined. Toss the sauce mixture with the cooked pasta. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with the remaining cheese and dot with the reserved pepperoni slices. Bake for 30 minutes. Let the dish stand for 5 minutes. Slice and serve with additional warmed pizza sauce if desired. • 1 bag shiitake mushrooms Cook CATELLI® Fettuccine according to package directions. Set aside. In a bowl, blend 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce with 1 teaspoon water. Use to baste chicken breasts; salt and sprinkle with 2 tablespoon roasted peanuts. Cook in oven preheated to 400°F for 15 minutes. Set aside. Meanwhile, clean mushrooms and remove stems. Cut bigger mushrooms. In a skillet, heat oil and sauté mushrooms around 1 minute. Add pepper strips and continue cooking another minute. Add chicken strips, remaining hoisin sauce and chicken broth, then bring to a boil. Add pasta and green onions, mixing well to coat pasta. Sprinkle with remaining peanuts and fresh coriander.
6/17/15 9:31 AM
Easy Pasta Salad With Basil, Grape Tomatoes & Chickpeas • 1 box (300g) CATELLI® Healthy Harvest Whole Wheat Penne • 2 cups grape tomatoes, halved • 3/4 cup red onion, sliced • 1 cup fresh basil, chopped • 1 can (19oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed • 1/2 cup peanuts, chopped (optional) • 1/4 cup virgin olive oil • 3 tablespoon balsamic vinegar • 2 tablespoon lemon juice • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
Classic Tomato Sauce With Italian Sausage And Bows
Cook CATELLI® penne in boiling water according to package directions. While the pasta is cooking, in a large bowl combine halved grape tomatoes, chopped basil, sliced red onion and chickpeas. When the pasta is ready, drain and add to the grape tomato and chickpea mixture. In a small bowl or measuring cup whisk together all the ingredients for the dressing. Add the dressing to the pasta salad mixture and mix well. Serve immediately or put in the refrigerator in an airtight container to be enjoyed later as a cold pasta salad.
• 1 bay leaf • Parmesan cheese for garnish
• 1 package (375 g) CATELLI® Bows • 2 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil • 2 lb Italian sausage, casings removed (mild) • 1 small onion, chopped • 3-4 garlic cloves, minced • 3½ cup canned cherry tomatoes • 3/4 cup tomato paste • 2/3 cup canned tomato sauce (optional) • 3 teaspoon fresh basil • 2 teaspoon parsley chopped • 1 teaspoon sea salt • 1/4 teaspoon fresh coarse ground black pepper • 4/5 cup skim milk • 6-8 fresh green asparagus tips
Snap the woody ends off asparagus stalks and discard. Slice the stalks finely with a knife (or use a food processor), leaving the tips whole. Set aside. Prepare Catelli® pasta as directed on the package (save 1 cup of cooking water before draining the pasta). Heat olive oil in a pan and add bay leaf. Add onions, garlic and Italian sausage. Sauté for 2-3 minutes. Add cherry tomatoes, tomato paste and cook until tomatoes are soft. Add skim milk and stir. If you wish to increase the body of your sauce, add canned tomato sauce to your liking. Add the sliced asparagus and the tips to the sauce and simmer for about 1 minute, then remove from heat and stir in a few fresh basil leaves and parsley. Add the pasta to your sauce and toss, adding splashes of pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce. Serve with a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil, black pepper and a grating of fresh Parmesan cheese.
One Pot Macaroni Supper
• 2 cups milk • 1½ cups cubed, partly skimmed mozzarella cheese
• 2 teaspoon vegetable oil • 1 lb lean ground beef • 2 teaspoon dried oregano leaves • 1 teaspoon each dried basil leaves and salt • 1 onion, chopped • 2 cups sliced mushrooms (optional) • 1 package CATELLI® Macaroni • 1 can canned diced tomatoes with juices • 2¾ cups plain tomato sauce or strained tomatoes
IS AVAILABLE AT YOUR FAVOURITE SUPERMARKET! BV22873_BDAparentMAG_2pgSPREAD.indd 2
• 2 cloves garlic, minced • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Heat the oil in a large pot or Dutch oven set over medium heat. Add the beef; cook for 5 minutes or until browned. Stir in the oregano, basil, salt, onion and mushrooms (if using). Cook, stirring occasionally for 5 minutes or until onion and mushrooms are tender. Stir in the dry CATELLI® macaroni, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce and milk. Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium low and cover. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10 to 15 minutes or until the pasta is tender. Stir in the cheese until just melted. Serve immediately.
www.bv.bm
6/17/15 9:31 AM
fun with food
BY JENNIFER SPITHILL, CERTIFIED NUTRITION CONSULTANT
Going Against
the Grain
The Paleo diet is more than just a way of eating, it’s a lifestyle. It’s about eating nourishing and healthful foods, it’s about making informed decisions about where our food comes from and being an overall responsible consumer. It is also about trying to lead a healthy lifestyle by making sure to exercise, take time for social activities, getting good sleep and managing stress. The Paleo diet focuses on nutrient dense foods that nourish our bodies and minds. It excludes all grains and legumes and most dairy. By focusing on the foods our ancestors ate before the industrial revolution we are providing ourselves with minimally processed and extremely healthful foods. Foods to focus on include: lean meats and fish, fresh vegetables and
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fruits and healthy fats from nuts, seeds, coconut, avocados, olive oil and grass fed meat. Many people ask me about carbohydrates and worry about getting enough of them when on the Paleo diet, but there are plenty of healthy carbohydrates in root vegetables such as sweet potato, carrots, squash, yams, cassava (yucca), turnips and beets and squashes such as butternut, acorn
and pumpkin. Bananas and other colorful fruit (especially berries!) are an excellent source of healthy carbohydrates as well! The Paleo diet excludes all processed and packaged foods that contain trans fats, sugar, refined seed and nut oils, and overly processed grains, as this is believed in many cases to be the root of degenerative diseases
Paleo Banana Pancakes *Serves 3
3 medium to large sized bananas (Green bananas fine; ripe bananas will impart a more sweet flavor) 7 eggs 4 tablespoons coconut flour such as obesity, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, depression and infertility. It is important to be aware of where your food comes from and don’t be afraid to ask questions! Take ownership in your decisions and don’t take the food you are buying from the grocery store for granted. Be a conscious consumer and try to focus on purchasing local and organic produce, meat and eggs (and don’t forget to eat the yolks!) whenever possible. Making informed choices to support local farmers and sustainable food practices, will help to positively support our food system for generations to come, as well as helping you to become healthier! Pre-packaged convenience foods, and highly processed refined grains and flours are slowly wreaking havoc on our health in general as a population. Set your family up for a successful morning and give them the nutrition their brain and bodies crave. These pancakes are loaded with healthy protein, fat and carbohydrates to provide not just your children, but your whole family with balanced and sustained energy throughout the entire morning. These pancakes are fairly simple to prepare in a powerful blender. I pour the batter straight from the blender to the pan to cook.
2 tablespoons almond meal/flour 2 tablespoons flax meal ½ tsp. salt 1. Mix all ingredients in blender. Wait 3-4 minutes after blending to allow coconut flour to absorb moisture and thicken batter. 2. Heat large non-stick skillet on medium heat. Cook pancakes 3-4 at a time depending on how large you like them. Cook for approximately 1 ½ to 2 minute per side, and flip with a spatula when you see little bubbles form. 3. Cook for the same amount of time on other side. These pancakes are a bit more delicate than the standard grain-filled pancakes, so take care in flipping them. * Hint: you can add a small amount of butter (grass-fed ‘Kerrygold’ the best) or coconut oil to the pan to keep from sticking. *Optional add-ins: Crushed walnuts or pecans, blueberries or any other healthy additions you can think of! Enjoy. Nutritional breakdown per serving: Calories: 362 Protein: 19 grams Carbs: 35 grams Fat: 16 grams Fiber: 8.5 grams
236.4700
10 Harvey Rd, Paget
www.bermudaparent.bm
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Fab 1 | Coconut Oil for Health and Beauty – Simone McGrath
Coconut oil has grown in popularity due to its many health benefits including weight loss, allergies and skin and hair care. ‘Coconut Oil for Health and Beauty’ by Simone McGrath explores the great uses of this fantastic oil with detailed information on its benefits, uses, recipes and insightful facts. Grab your copy from The Bookmart at Brown & Co. today.
FAMILY FINDS
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2 | SpaRitual Nail Care New to Brown & Co. is an eco-conscious and holistic spa lifestyle brand, SpaRitual. Dedicated to the environment, SpaRitual offers the only vegan, paraben-free, multi-purpose system of spa treatments for body, hands and feet. SpaRitual nail lacquers are free of DBP, toluene, camphor and formaldehyde making them good for people and the planet. Get the perfect mani-pedi with SpaRitual at Brown & Co.
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3 | Designer Noodle The Designer Noodle is one of the hottest pool products to hit the market in recent years. Your kids will love the candy themed noodles available at The Annex Toys which boldly display sweet favourites including Sugar Daddy, Blow Pops, Gumballs and Cotton Candy. Meanwhile, you’ll love the spandex material covering the foam noodle which aids in preventing environmental damages or foam being trapped in your pool filter. See what other cool items The Annex Toys has in-store for a fun summer.
4 | The Body Shop – Body Sorbet
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Body Sorbet from The Body Shop at Brown & Co. is a summer hydration must-have for the skin. Infused with familiar TBS scents, its fluffy, sorbet texture instantly melts into your skin for a frosty burst of fresh moisture. Our tip is to store your face or body Sorbets in the fridge for an even more refreshing moisture sensation this summer.
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5 | Sahale Snacks The folks at Brown & Co. believe taste buds should have some adventure too and that’s why you’ll find a fabulous selection of Sahale Snacks in-store. Imagine cashews, pecans, almonds, and pistachios combined with naturally dried, preservative-free fruit and other tasty ingredients like honey, lemongrass, chipotle chili, and pure ground Madagascar vanilla beans…yum. Pop by Brown & Co…your taste buds will thank you.
6 | Garnier Whole Blends Hair Care Replenish, restore and nourish your hair with the selection of Garnier Whole Blends shampoos, conditioners and treatments available at The Phoenix Stores. The natural blend of ingredients and sensorial fragrances infused in Garnier Whole Blends were chosen to help restore the health and natural beauty of hair with every use. Find the right Garnier Whole Blends product for perfect summer hair at The Phoenix Stores.
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7 | GoPro Hero 4 Black
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The HERO4 Black delivers higher performance than any other GoPro to date capturing 4K ultra HD video and liquid smooth slow motion at up to 240 frames per second. Waterproof to 131’ (40m) with 12MP photos at 30 frames per second and improved audio, HERO4 Black is the ultimate life-capture solution for those who demand the best. Pick up this summer must-have from P-Tech.
8 | Intimina – KegelSmart Included in the new Intimina line of products on offer at The Phoenix Stores is KegelSmart – a revolutionary way to perform kegel exercises and strengthen the pelvic floor. Discover the innovative KegelSmart device which will set a simple and safe routine completely tailored to your intimate needs.
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8 9 | SolRX WaterBlock Sunscreen New to The Phoenix Stores is SolRx WaterBlock sunscreen – a high performance sun care line dedicated to athletes and active lifestyles. SolRx sunscreens use an exclusive WaterBlock technology for extended protection as the non-greasy, oil-free and reef-friendly sunscreen does not wash off in water. Learn more about summer sun care at The Phoenix Stores today.
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10 | Bose SoundLink Headphones 11
Wireless freedom meets best-in-class sound with the Bose Soundlink headphones available at P-Tech. These versatile headphones deliver deep, immersive sound at any volume while optimising calls even in windy or noisy environments. Easily switch between two Bluetooth devices to never miss a call or part of the movie you’re watching. Pop by P-Tech and discover why Bose Soundlink is likely the best-sounding wireless headphones you’ll find.
11 | Puddle Jumper Life Jacket The fun lasts longer for kids in the water with Puddle Jumper Life Jackets, which are Coast Guard approved and designed to comfortably allow children 30-50lbs to move and swim freely. You can find the fantastic learnto-swim aid at The Annex Toys & Phoenix Kidz in a variety of colours.
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12 | Bose Wave Radio IV Now in a fresh, updated design the Bose Wave Radio IV delivers industry-leading performance for a system its size. Its Waveguide speaker technology fills a room with lifelike, natural, high-performance sound. In addition to the built-in CD player and AM/FM radio, there’s an optional Bluetooth music adaptor so you can play music from your smartphone, tablet or any other Bluetooth device.
13 | iPlay Swimwear We found cute and functional swimwear for babies and toddlers at The Annex Toys & Phoenix Kidz. With UPF 50+ and built-in diapers, iPlay swimwear and accessories are awesome for kid-safe beach and pool fun. Plus, they’re available in great prints for boys and girls.
14 | Sonos Play 5
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Step up to the Sonos Play 5 – a powerfully smart speaker that fine-tunes its sound. With six state-of-the-art digital amplifiers individually coupled with six speaker drivers, great sound is delivered to any room – music that’s pure, ferocious, tasty and true. Connect with your favourite songs on a deeper level with a Sonos Play 5 from P-Tech.
15 | Thermos 4 Burner Gas Grill Stay home and grill out this summer with a Thermos 4 Burner Gas Grill available at The Phoenix Centre. With a 48,000 BTU and 685 square inch cooking surface on the main burners and a 10,000 BTU side burner, your place will no doubt turn into the new summer spot for friends and family. Check out our pick which features electronic ignition, a porcelain cooking grate, porcelain swing-away wire rack, built in temperature gauge and 8” wheels for easy mobility.
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16 | Little Tikes 4-In-1 Trike Sport Edition The Annex Toys has loads of bikes and ride on toys in-store. Our pick is the Little Tykes Trike 4-in-1 Sport Edition which evolves as your child grows. The adjustable push handle allows you to take control in the beginning. However, as your little one grows, the footrests are easily removed for pedalling, the steering unlocked and before you know it you’re struggling to keep pace. No worries, simply remove the handle and your “baby” will be able to head off on their own.
www.bermudaparent.bm
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tweens & teens
BY DR. RENEE SIMONS
Helping Teens
Cope with
Grief
Grief is like the ocean; it comes on waves, ebbing and flowing. Sometimes the water is calm, and sometimes it is overwhelming. All we can do is learn to swim. – Vicki Harrison
rief can be defined as the reaction we have in response to a death or loss. It is important to remember that there are many different types of loss other than death. People of all ages can experience grief related to the ending of a relationship, a friend or family member moving away, and even the loss of a pet. Grief can affect our body, mind, emotions, and spirit. Common physical reactions to grief can include; changes in appetite or sleep, stomach aches, tight chest, crying, feeling tense and having trouble relaxing, low energy, restlessness or trouble concentrating. People can also experience frequent thoughts; these may be happy memories of the person who died, worries or regrets, or thoughts of what life will be like without the person. Experiencing grief can also lead 26
to experiencing strong emotions such as anger, sadness, guilt, relief and even hope. The grieving process takes time. Sometimes the grief maybe experienced as intense, and at other times it can be easier to cope. Here are some ways to help teens through grief: Allow them to express their feelings when they are ready – Encourage the teen to notice how they have been
feeling and reacting. Suggest that they write their feelings down and then share what they have written with supportive others. Gather together – Having family and friends together after suffering a loss can help teens and adults to feel less isolated. Self-care – Suffering a loss can be stressful, ensure that your teen takes care of themselves in the following ways: 1. Get Enough Sleep – Sleep restores both the body and
mind, but grief can disrupt sleep patterns. Work on creating healthy sleep habits, like going to bed at the same time each night or generating a bedtime routine like doing gentle yoga or breathing exercises before trying to sleep. 2. Workout – Exercise can boost your mood. Since it will
probably be a challenge to get motivated to workout, encourage your teen to concentrate on small easy things to get their body moving. Even a gentle walk outdoors can help to reset their perspective on things.
When grief becomes something more: While there is no timeline for experiencing grief related to the loss of a loved one, teens who experience the following could benefit from seeking assistance from a therapist or psychologist. • Extended period of depressed mood, with loss of interest in activities that were previously enjoyable. • Inability to sleep, loss of appetite, fear of being alone. • Repeating statements of wanting to join the deceased person. • Behaving younger than they are. • Withdrawal from friends. • Drop in school performance, extended period of school refusal. References: 1.
Honoring the Memory: Making the World a Better Place. Author Elyse C. Salek, MEd and Kenneth R. Ginsburg, MD, MS Ed, FAAP. Last Updated 11/21/2015 https://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/ emotional-wellness/Building-Resilience/Pages/Honoring-the-MemoryMaking-the-World-a-Better-Place.aspx
2.
Grief and Children – American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry No. 8; Updated July 2013
3.
Death and Grief – Kidshealth.org http://kidshealth.org/en/teens/ someone-died.html?WT.ac=p-ra#
3. Eat Right – Your teen may feel like skipping meals or
may not feel hungry. But, their body still needs nutritious foods. Help them to avoid overeating or loading up on junk foods. Be mindful that they may turn to alcohol or other drugs to soothe their grief; modeling healthy coping skills is important.
Honor the Memory: 1. Create a Living Memorial – Help guide your teen in ex-
ploring ways to honor the deceased person with their own life. a. For example; ask the teen, “What was your grandfather’s dream for you?” If this is in line with the teens own desires, help them to set a goal that is consistent with achieving this dream. Ensure that the goal is achievable, but also takes some genuine effort to reach.
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b. If the teen is struggling with the loss of a peer, consider asking, “What was his/her dream?” or “What was important to him/her?” Then ask the teen what they can do to make their peers dream a reality. 2. Doing things such as lighting a candle, saying a prayer, making a scrapbook, looking at photographs and telling stories about the person are also ways to honor the memory. www.bermudaparent.bm
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tweens & teens
BY CYBERTIPS.BM, DEPARTMENT OF E-COMMERCE
Outsmarting Your Kids’
Smart Devices This Summer
s the summer approaches, we often begin to think back to our own childhood and wish that our kids enjoyed the outdoors as much as we did. Plugged into their game consoles or smart devices, they may show no interest in what we used to do during the summer. They’re often content to stay in, interacting with their favorite piece of technology, robbing themselves of the benefits of playing outside, having face-to-face interactions with others without the need for social media, and enjoying some of Bermuda’s best offerings: its stunningly beautiful nature. Not only do we want our children to spend time being active outdoors for their benefit of their physical, mental, and spiritual health, we also want to protect them from the dangers that are lurking at every corner of the cyber-world in which they’re increasingly engaging. Often times, and increasingly, our children’s conversations, games, sources of inspiration, and even new friendships are emerging from the Internet. And parents, older friends, and guardians are not always happy about that. While we can only postpone or limit our children’s exposure to the Internet, we can rarely eliminate it altogether. The Internet is a tool that is progressively used in school and in social contexts and can bring much good if used appropriately. So instead of staying away from it, our children must learn how to use it intelligently and most important of all: safely.
We Must Teach Responsible Use of Mobile Devices Cellphones, smartphones and wifi-ready devices like tablets give our children access to the Internet: a world that’s portable and provides access to many things and yet, a world that is private. Unlike the days when children talked openly on the home phone and could easily be monitored, today’s mobile devices do not provide the same certainty and require more effort to ensure proper use. We can monitor their usage and make sure that the websites and connections that they make are trustworthy. But that is not enough. The best way to ensure that our children adopt healthy 28
and safe Internet practices is, unsurprisingly, maintaining a continuous and open conversation about the benefits of the World Wide Web and its dangers, and about how to be a good digital citizen. Unfortunately, the ease with which our children can gain access to the Internet may mean that they may, one day or another, be tempted to use it irresponsibly. They may stay online longer than they should instead of paying attention to their school obligations. They may get involved in cyberbullying. They may engage in sexting, by sending or receiving inappropriate pictures or messages. Or they may entertain an inappropriate relationship with someone who may not have their best interest at heart. Embarrassing texts, photos, and videos captured on these devices can be instantly shared with others or easily uploaded onto the Internet. When done by others without the photo owner’s permission, this can constitute cyberbullying and can happen swiftly and anonymously. It is important to reiterate that cyberbullying is a crime.
What’s the Right Age for Your Child to Have a Cellphone or Smartphone? Phones have become a must-have for kids and the ways that they use them are not always obvious to parents. If you answer “yes” to most of the following questions, it may be time to get a cellphone or smartphone for your children. 1. Do you consider your kids to be independent (i.e. taking the bus after school or walking home alone)? 2. Do your children need to be in touch with you for safety reasons (i.e. there is no home phone in the residence)?
3. Would having easy access to friends benefit them for social reasons? 4. Do you think they’ll use a phone responsibly — for example, not disturbing others with loud phone conversations? 5. Are they responsible enough to adhere to the limits you set for voice minutes and data so as not to cause you to go over budget? 6. Will they responsibly use the text, photo, and video functions as well as apps? Do you trust them not to embarrass or harass others?
Tips for Parents of Young Children (Elementary-School Age) 1. Implement rules for time spent talking, what phones are used for, and when the phones should be off. 2. Choose a phone that allows for calls only. Block texting and internet access. Your cellphone carrier can assist with this. 3. Make sure you have programmed important numbers into their phones so that they display the caller’s identity. Then agree with your kids that they only answer calls from numbers/people that they know. 4. Set strict guidelines for the use of wifi on your child’s cellphone and regularly check to ensure the guidelines are being observed.
Tips for Parents of Preteens
2. Work out guidelines for use with your kids. For example, phones should be turned off at night, and no phones should be used at the dinner table. 3. Establish real consequences for violations of your rules. 4. Encourage your child to come to you if something happens that makes them uncomfortable. 5. Remind him/her that you are the owner of that device, and that makes you responsible for how it is used. In other words, it should not be the origin of such things as rude or sexy texts, embarrassing photos or videos, and inappropriate apps. 6. Talk with your child about cyberbullying and make it known that it is an offence punishable by law. 7. Tell your children that sexual talk of any kind over the phone (verbally or through texts) is not allowed. Kids often jokingly use sexual language and sexually aggressive speech. Also, reiterate the no sexting rule: your children must not take naked selfies or photos of intimate body parts.
Use Monitoring Software Outsmarting Your Kids’ Smartphone Cellphone monitoring software is a helpful option for keeping an eye on how kids use smart devices. As you do your research, examine the many software applications available to you so that you can make sure that: • you’re obtaining the help you need, • the software can work locally, • it is compatible with the device you will be installing it on, and that • it does not use too much of the device memory. To keep an eye out for the latest applications and their ratings, visit www.toptenreviews.com where you can find the right balance of tracking, reporting and alerts. The software applications listed there are designed to help you keep an eye on and protect your children by monitoring their cellular activity and limiting it as you see fit.
1. Explain that cellular devices are expensive and that “extras” cost money. You may be billed for apps or Web access. www.bermudaparent.bm
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On a cell phone, a message can be instantly forwarded out of context to anyone, and the writer can find themselves in trouble.
Tips for Parents of Teens 1. Anticipate increased phone use. By the time they get to high school, the phone may be ringing all the time. Make sure their phone plan allows for this extra time and establish limits so they get a break from being “always plugged in and online.” 2. No sexting. At all. Ever. One wrong message can ruin your teen’s chances of earning coveted scholarships and internships and of entering the college/university of their choice. 3. No texting or talking on the phone while driving. Not only is that illegal in Bermuda, but distracted driving may cause people to get into collisions. 4. Make sure he/she picks up your call. Many teens treat incoming calls from parents and/or guardians as a nuisance. As long as you are paying the bills, make a rule: they have to answer when you call — unless they’re driving or riding a bike. 5. Have them review each month’s bill with you so that they can confirm precisely how many minutes they are spending on the phone and the amount of data they use. It’s a good exercise in budgeting and management as they get older and ready to leave your nest.
6. Draw boundaries. No phones at the dinner table, the car, or a restaurant. Remind your teens that they have only a couple of years left at home to have conversations with you face to face! 7. Another method that parents may use to manage the teens’ urge to use the phone late at night is by using a charging station. Agree to leave all phones in the house to charge in a central place overnight like the kitchen or the living room.
Highly-Rated Monitoring Software As your children are in the process of developing proper digital citizenship habits, make sure the conversation remains open and clear about expectations, accountability, and ways to make the most out of the Internet while remaining safe and keeping their per-
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sonal information secure. While they’re young, however, you may wish to make use of monitoring software on the smart devices that your children use in order to be able to focus your attention (and conversation) on the right areas. Cellphone monitoring software is a helpful option for keeping an eye on how your kids use their mobile devices. Do your homework and examine the many software applications available to you so that you can make sure that you’re obtaining the help you need, that it can work locally, that it is compatible with the device you will be installing it on, and that it does not use too much of the device memory. To keep an eye out for the latest applications and their ratings, visit www. toptenreviews.com where you can find the right balance of tracking, reporting and alerts. In 2016, the three cellphone monitoring software applications that received the highest rating were: 1. Mobile Spy, the Gold Award winner 2. PhoneSheriff, the Silver Award winner, and 3. Mobistealth, the Bronze Award winner. While their prices range from $90 to $140, they’re designed to help you keep an eye on and protect your children by monitoring their cellular activity and limiting it as you see fit. For more information visit: www.cybertips.bm
KERIN ORAL CARE General Dentistry & Oral Medicine Practice
Great Value and Affordable Prices Every Day Washington Mall, Hamilton Open 9 to 5:30 Phone: 292-1080
Welcome new patients & emergencies! We care for you & the little ones too! Tel: 236-4477 Mon-Thur 8:00am - 5:00pm Fri: 8:00am - 12pm Closed for Lunch: 1:00pm -2:00pm 2 Southcourt Avenue, Paget
www.kerinoralcare.com www.bermudaparent.bm
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family life
BY BRENDA DALE, AVP Wellness, BF&M Insurance Group
SUMMER
Splash It’s that time again….time to get ready for that May 24th SPLASH into summer! May 24th tends to be the first plunge of the year for many Bermudians. As parents, it’s time to prepare and consider beach and pool safety tips to make it a fun and healthy summer for the entire family. As everyone knows, a ‘day at the beach’ or ‘chillin by the pool’ can be anything but fun if we’re unprepared. A little forethought and preparation can go a long way toward a safe and healthy afternoon or vacation on the water.
Teaching your child to swim and encouraging him/her to swim regularly can have significant benefits for both physical and mental health and safety. On a hot day, swimming is a good way to keep cool while encouraging a healthy level of physical and social activity. Swimming enhances physical health as it provides an excellent cardiovascular workout that promotes heart and lung health, improves strength and flexibility, and increases stamina. It also improves balance and posture while putting less strain on joints and connective tissues than other forms of exercise. Swimming is cited as an effective way to prevent childhood obesity. Swimming can also improve your child’s mental and emotional health as the natural buoyancy of the water is more relaxing than other types of exercise. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) found swimming can also improve overall mood, and help combat depression. And equally important, knowing how to swim can save your child’s life. According to KidsHealth.org, drowning is the second- leading cause of death for people between the ages of 5 and 24. By teaching your child to swim, he/she will gain confidence and valuable experience in the water, which will greatly reduce the risk of an emergency (e.g. accidentally falling into the 32
3 Beach and Pool TIPS
water or getting pulled into deep water by a rip current at the beach). It will also enable your child to enjoy other water-based activities like snorkeling, kayaking, paddle boarding, windsurfing and sailing, to name a few.
Tip #1: Swimming: Practice Beach and Pool Safety Children LOVE the water and generally can’t wait to jump right in! That’s good, and we certainly don’t want them to fear the water, but we do want them to develop a healthy ‘respect’ and be aware of the potential dangers that lie therein. We are blessed in Bermuda to be surrounded by a most beautiful, safe and generally warm ocean! There are numerous programs around to teach children how to swim from toddlers (e.g. Aquamania Moms and Tots and Swimming Instincts) and up. These programs are wonderful for helping children enjoy swimming as they practice skills from blowing bubbles, floating and treading water, and learning specific strokes that help them learn to swim. Having float boards, noodles and other floatation devices around is always a good practice; however, they are not substitutes for swimming lessons or adult supervision. We owe it to our children for them to know how to swim when their island home is Bermuda! If they begin to like swimming, there are several really good swim clubs on the island (i.e. Harbour, Sharks and Dolphins) where they can continue to improve their skills. Other tips to remember to keep our families safe around the water include:
•
NEVER leave children unsupervised at the beach or near a pool – they can get into difficulty in a heartbeat
•
If you are at a hotel or renting a house with a pool, or even have a neighbor with a pool, make sure it is properly fenced or gated so children cannot access
•
Swim at a beach with a lifeguard, particularly if you have a group of children with you, as there will be more eyes on your children and more help nearby
•
blocker such as zinc oxide or titanium and blocks 97% of the UVB rays. Most importantly we must remember to liberally apply the sunscreen before we go out into the sun, and then we must reapply it, even if it is water resistant, every 90 minutes. Lotions tend to provide better cover than sprays, but if a spray is used it should be sprayed close to the skin and then rubbed in. Sun protective clothing is also important
to protect the skin, and can include sun/swim shirts, sunglasses and widebrimmed hats! Enjoy your summer SPLASH! Brenda Dale is a Corporate Wellness Specialist for BF&M. She manages the LiveWell Program and helps companies to develop and implement wellness programs for their staff. Brenda can be contacted on 298-0295 or bdale@bfm.bm.
W E L L N E S S M A T T E R S F O R H E A LT H
LiveWell Program
When at the beach, take the riptide or current warnings seriously, and don’t let children swim at these times. As part of your water safety training, remind children not to fight a strong current, but to swim parallel to the shore or tread water
Tip #2: Keeping Cool Bermuda’s high heat and humidity can be a deadly combination, especially for children. Overheating and dehydration can happen quickly, so we must make sure that water is available at all times, and that children take a drink at least every half hour. Packing healthier and more nutritious snacks for your family also helps. Fruit is always a good choice as it aids hydration, while trail mix, granola bars, cheese sticks and dried fruit are also good options. Ensuring that there is adequate shade is important for providing protection from the heat. It’s a good idea to take umbrellas or small tents to provide periodic relief from the heat in case there is no natural shade. .
Tip #3: Smart Sun Protection
Bermuda’s sun can be intense and so we all need to protect our skin as skin cancer rates are increasing. This includes melanoma, a deadly form of skin cancer that is being seen in increasing numbers in children and teens. Dermatologists recommend choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30, which contains a physical
A Wellness Program Tailored for You BF&M offers a free online wellness resource for our health insurance clients. Your company can work with BF&M to develop a wellness program tailored to your needs and interests. Our easy to use online wellness platform includes: • An individualized Wellbeing Activity Hub • Fun and engaging wellness challenges • A personal Wellness Assessment • Healthy Habits programs • Access to healthy lifestyle and chronic disease management programs and events • Access to BF&M’s LiveWell Rewards Program… and much more! Visit www.bfm.bm and click on LiveWell, or contact us at livewell@bfm.bm
BF&M LIFE
112 Pitts Bay Road, Pembroke HM 08, Bermuda
295-5566
livewell@bfm.bm
www.bfm.bm
LiveWell is intended to compliment rather than substitute proper medical advice or treatment.
www.bermudaparent.bm
33
family life
BY PAULETTA FRANCIS
S-P-I-N Your Way Into Fitness!
Approximately three years ago, as a member of the Athletic Club, Melissa, a trainer there, asked me to try something new and participate in a spinning class. “What is spinning?” I thought to myself. I had never heard of it before. So curiously, yet excitedly armed with a bottle of water and a towel, I walked into the Studio and discovered a room full of stationary bikes. The instructor helped me to adjust the seat and the handlebars to the appropriate height and I got ready for the class. Melissa turned the lights off, started the motivational music and I was spinning. What an adventure it was! I absolutely loved the experience! I was intrigued with the variety of things that could be done on a bike. One moment I was sprinting hard for 30 seconds and the next I was climbing a hill. While my abdominals, legs and butt were all in pain I had an excellent workout. I’m sure I burned lots of calories as well because I was sweating profusely. It was the best 60 minute workout that I ever had. From that moment on I developed a passion for spinning. I attended several classes each week and noticed my form, endurance and fitness level improving. A few months later, I decided to join Magnum Powerforce Gym. It was the best thing I could have done because I participated in the spinning classes of Gladwin Edness and Sandra “Smokey” Simons. They both gave me invaluable information as I was contemplating becoming a spinning instructor. 34
However, it was “Smokey” who pushed me to the next fitness level. She would call my name in her class and challenge me to give everything I had because soon I would have the responsibility of designing classes and motivating people to achieve their fitness goals. I thank her for all the encouragement and words of advice that she has given and continues to provide to me. So then, in May 2013, I accomplished my goal. I attended the World Spinning and Sports Conference (WSSC) in Miami, Florida. I worked hard, passed the course and became a certified spinning instructor. It is something that I am passionate about. Here are some reasons why I think spinning is beneficial. Reason # 1
Spinning is a Low Impact Workout This means it will not cause injury to bones and joints as running and other forms of cardiovascular activities might. Furthermore, the benefits achieved
from spinning are similar to running. That’s a win-win situation for sure. Reason #2
Lose Weight Burning calories along with eating a sensible diet will result in weight loss. Spinning can help to burn calories. A 60 minute class can help you to burn 450 calories or more depending on how much exertion is used. Reason #3
Tone & Build Muscle If you look at the physique of “spinners” who engage in the exercise regularly, you will see they have been working their upper and lower legs, arms and abdominals. Are these areas you also want to tone and perhaps build muscle in? Reason #4
It’s Year Round! Spinning is held inside a gym, in a separate air-conditioned room. Because of this, it takes place from January through to December. Many gyms in Bermuda offer early morning, lunch and evening classes. They are usually 45 or 60 minutes long.
What to Expect
1. A certified instructor will greet you and assist you to set up your bike according to your height. 2. Each class will have a variety of music being played. This can include, but is not limited to Pop, R&B, Oldie Goldies, Reggae and Soca. 3. Most new participants will experience soreness from being in the saddle as well as leg and muscle soreness. This will dissipate as time goes on. 4. If your gym membership does not include spinning, you can pay anywhere from $15-$20 per class. Most gyms offer punch cards where you pay for several classes at a time. It is cheaper to purchase the card than pay for individual classes.
What to Wear
It’s best to wear comfortable work out gear. Oh, and sneakers are a must. If you intend on spinning regularly, cycling shoes are strongly suggested. They can be purchased locally at places such as Social Cycles, Bicycle Works, Pedals Plus and Winners Edge. It’s an investment that will reap great rewards.
What to Bring
Sweating and spinning go together. You will need to bring bottled water or a reusable water bottle which can be re-filled. A towel is also suggested. Oh, and of course bring your positive attitude. So, there you have it. You now know more about my favorite exercise which
has numerous health benefits. Have I convinced you to try something new or to return to spinning? Join me as we S-P-I-N our way into fitness! Pauletta M. Francis is a Certified Spinning Instructor at Magnum Gym. For additional information about spinning, feel free to contact her at paulettafrancis@gmail.com or 332-1021.
www.bermudaparent.bm
35
family life
BY Safe Camps Bermuda
10 Things
You Should Ask Before Sending Your Child To Camp 5. WHAT IS THE COUNSELOR-TO-
Its summer time and all children just want to have fun! Parents are looking for safe affordable childcare. Parents, before you send your child to camp you want to make sure that they are safe, supervised and engaged in activities that keep their minds and bodies active.
CAMPER RATIO?
Ratios and maximum group size vary according to age and activity. See the suggested ratios posted on Environmental Health’s Web site, outlined in the Guidelines for Day and Over Night Camp Administrators and the Safe Camps Bermuda Facebook page. You may wish to add the following US based guidelines on day camp staff to child ratio for whoever is caring for your child: In day camp, there must be one senior counselor for every six children under the age of 6; one for every nine children between the ages of 6 and 7 and one for every twelve children who are 8 years old and above.
The following questions are 10 suggested questions for parents to ask before you sign your child up for camp: Is there a suitable and safe building/ structure for the camp’s base? All programmes should meet established guidelines for indoor space, free from hazards, in good condition and meet environmental health standards.
2. WHO ARE THE STAFF OPERATING THE CAMP?
Do you do background checks on your staff? Are the camp staff CPR/First Aid trained? Are medical forms about the campers collected; how are medications stored? At a minimum, camp staff should be trained in safety regulations, emergency procedures and communications, behavior management techniques and child physical and sexual abuse prevention and reporting.
36
3. WHAT IS THE CAMP’S PHILISOPHY AND PROGRAME EMPHASIS?
Is the camp’s program/ activities age and developmentally appropriate for the children they serve. What does a typical day look like for the camper, what does the camp focus on? How many hours are spent inside and how many outside in the sun? Are the campers oriented to the camp and to systems put in place to keep campers safe?
4. WHAT IS THE CAMP’S BEHAVIOUR AND DISCIPLINARY POLICY?
What are the rules and consequences? How do they use positive reinforcement? Is there a policy on bullying? What is the behavior management philosophy? Will parents or guardians be contacted in the case of problematic behavior becoming a safety issue for the child or others?
SUBMITTED BY BELCO STEM CAMP
1. WHERE IS THE CAMP LOCATED?
SUBMITTED BY IN MOTIONS
SUBMITTED BY BERMUDA CRICKET BOARD
Summer at
8. WHAT IS THE TRUE COST OF THE CAMP?
What does the camp fee include? Are there other expenses? Will outside activities cost extra? Is there a refund policy?
SUBMITTED BY BERMUDA NATIONAL TRUST
9. IS THE CAMP REGISTERED?
6. WHAT IS THE TRANSPORTATION/ EXCURSION POLICY?
Does the camp provide transportation? If yes, is it via pre-organized vans or buses? What are the conditions of the vans i.e.; seatbelts and driver experience. If bus, what are the checks and balances to ensure safety enroute. What is the contact number of a camp staff person that I can reach at all times even what campers are on excursions?
7. WHAT IS YOUR WATER SAFETY POLICY?
Children should not be permitted near water without supervision and a staff member who is First Aid -certified and familiar with lifesaving procedures. All campers’ ability to swim should be assessed and activities designed according to the skill level of each child.
All camps that take preschool age children must have their camp registered with the Deparment of Environmental Health. Other camps wishing to be given a seal of approval should also be registered as striving to meet best practice standards and keep children safe.
10. WHAT ARE YOUR POLICIES ON VISITORS AND/OR COMMUNICATING CONCERNS?
How does the camp screen visitors? Parents should make sure that there is a method for making sure that unauthorized visitors are not allowed access to their child. It’s also important for the camps to account for attendance and dismissal from camps. Parents should have a plan in place designating how the child is to leave the camp, including the names of those that have permission to visit or escort their child home.
New!
Plus Sizes Up to 6X
You should also feel comfortable knowing who to lodge a concern or grievance with.
Knowledge Is Power: For More Information Visit Our Facebook Page Safe Camps Bermuda
122 Middle Road, Warwick (next to Island Spice) Monday - Thursday 9am - 6pm Friday & Saturday 9am - 7pm Tel: 732-7921 www.bermudaparent.bm
37
Summer has arrived and many of you will be enjoying your National Parks over the upcoming holidays. We want to emphasize that swimming at the beach can be extremely fun however beach patrons must be prepared and sensible whenever in or near the ocean.
Who is at risk for drowning? Everyone. However, children have the highest risk for drowning worldwide. Risks include inadequate supervision, inability to swim, and unrealistic expectations of children by guardians regarding water safety. Be safe and make good judgments about your beach activities this summer.
REMEMBER - Slip on a shirt. When out in the sun, wear protective clothing of tightly woven fabrics that you can’t see through when held up to the light. Slap on a hat. Have fun choosing one and make sure it protects your face and back of your neck. Bucket shaped hats are great for kids. Slop on sunscreen. SPF30 or higher, apply everyday 30 minutes to one hour before you go out. Dry and re-apply every 2 hours if possible, especially after swimming and exercising. ALWAYS BE CAREFUL BE SAFE THIS SUMMER
THE WATER SAFETY CODE Spot the danger
2015 CUP MATCH CAMPING
• Are Lifeguards on duty at your beach? • Know the general beach conditions: are there high surf conditions, is it shallow enough to stand, is it deep enough to jump, are there rip currents or any other currents, what is the tide like, is it busy? • Are there any dangerous marine animals present such as Portuguese Man-of-War? • Are there any boating (including personal watercraft) activities near your swimming area? • Even if you are only near the water, take extra care. Take Safety Advice • Choose swimming areas where there is Lifeguard coverage. • Know the weather forecast before leaving home. • Make note of any warning signs or safety flags at beaches. Don’t Go It Alone • Never swim alone. • Children must always have direct and close adult supervision while in or near the water at all times. Learn How to Help • Do you know what to do in an emergency? • Shout for help and alert a Lifeguard. • Telephone emergency services (911) if there are no Lifeguards present. • Do not enter the water to rescue someone unless trained to do so. • Take in a water safety workshop and get certified in CPR & First Aid to be part of the solution for a safe summer at the beach. DESIGNATED SWIMMING ONLY These areas are marked by large orange buoys and NO marine traffic including personal watercraft is allowed in these areas at anytime. These areas include Clearwater and Turtle Beach, Coopers Island Nature Reserve, Shelly Bay, Admiralty House Park/Clarence Cove.
The Ministry of Public Works and the Department of Parks, have established a few guidelines for those who wish to camp outside the 3 designated campgrounds - Ferry Point Park, Chaplin Bay and Higgs & Horseshoe Islands. The major reforestation and environmental project at Coney Island is still ongoing. Therefore the park is CLOSED to camping. It will be restricted to picnicking only. There will be NO CAMPING at Blue Hole Park / Nature Reserve or Coopers Island Nature Reserve at the old NASA site. There is also NO CAMPING on the DUNE immediately behind Jobsons’ Cove in South Shore Park. This dune area has rare sensitive plants that need to be protected. There is a sign erected advising park users of this policy. NO tents or ropes to mark spots are permitted to be erected on Monday 27th July 2015. Tents and ropes found erected at the parks and beaches on this date will be taken down by the Department of Parks. Campers may erect tents and tarps on Tuesday 28th July 2015 to secure their preferred spot. However, no one will be permitted to camp on this date. Please do not erect tents in front of the park and beach access gates. Camping WILL be permitted from Wednesday 29th July until
Sunday 2nd August 2015.
Park gates will be opened during the day on 29th July 2015 to allow campers and picnickers the opportunity to set up. Park Rangers will be on duty until 10 p.m. Wednesday 29th July 2015 and will begin locking the gates at 9:30 p.m. For the safety of park users, ALL vehicles must be removed from the parks and placed in the designated parking lots.
Park Rangers will also be on duty both days of Cup Match, Thursday 30th July and Friday 31st July 2015, from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. and the weekend Saturday 1st August and Sunday 2nd August 2015, from 9:30 am to 6 pm to assist park users. Lifeguards will be on duty at Clearwater Beach, Turtle Beach, John Smith’s Bay, Horseshoe Bay and Long Bay at Coopers Island Nature Reserve from 10 am to 6 pm. throughout the holiday period. The following beaches have safe swimming zones designated by buoys where boats and personal watercrafts are not permitted to enter; Clarence Cove at Admiralty House Park, Shelley Bay, Clearwater Beach, Turtle Bay, and Long Bay at Coopers Island. Operators of vessels are asked to adhere to these safety zones.
Dogs on Public Beaches and in Parks
The Department of Parks maintenance crews will also be working from 6:00 am until 3:00 pm. both days of the Cup Match Holiday, as well as the weekend, to collect trash, rake beaches and clean toilets. Access gates must be kept clear at ALL times.
The Department of Parks is reminding dog owners, handlers, and the general public that the 1988 Bermuda National Park Regulations and Policies under the jurisdiction of the 1986 Bermuda National Parks Act have changed, regarding dogs in parks and on the public beaches.
We ask the owners / drivers of vehicles to please use common sense and DO NOT PARK in front of the access gates. They must be kept clear so that Department of Parks maintenance vehicles and Emergency vehicles, including Police, Fire, and Ambulance can gain access at ALL times.
The Regulations and Policies are as follows: • As of the 1st April 2015, dogs are NOT PERMITTED to be on any of the public beaches until the 31st October 2015. • Dogs can be walked either on the trails, in Parks or on the dunes, in South Shore Park at any time. • The dogs must be on a leash at ALL times. • As a reminder dogs are NOT PERMITTED in the Main Show Ring in Botanical Gardens. Signs are erected informing the public of the closure. • Members of the general public are reminded that Botanical Gardens is closed to the public at sundown each day. • For health and safety reasons dogs are NOT ALLOWED on the playgrounds at Clearwater Beach, Mullet Bay Park, Shelly Bay Park, Parsons Road, Admiralty House Park, Warwick Long Bay, Somerset Long Bay and Death Valley. • Dogs are also NOT PERMITTED in the new Coopers Island Nature Reserve where the NASA Tracking Station was located.
Offending ve hicles will be ticketed, clamped and towed at the owners’ expense in order to clear the blocked gates. In addition there are private residences at John Smiths Bay Park and the access road must be kept clear for tenants. ALL CAMPING EQUIPMENT MUST BE REMOVED FROM THE PARKS AND BEACHES BY MONDAY 3rd AUGUST 2015. ALL EQUIPMENT LEFT AFTER THIS DATE WILL BE CONSIDERED ABANDONED AND WILL BE DISPOSED OF BY THE DEPARTMENT OF PARKS. The cooperation of the general public during the busy 2015 Cup Match Holiday would be greatly appreciated by the staff of the Department of Parks. In addition, please be considerate and respectful of your neighbours, including those who stay adjacent to the parks and beaches. Music must be played at reasonable levels that will not disturb other park and beach users or residents.
• Please carry and use the Dogipot litter pick up bags as you travel in the designated areas at all times.
For further information please contact the Department of Parks, Park Ranger Office at 236-5902 or 239-2355. The Minister and the Permanent Secretary, of the Ministry of Public Works, and the Director and Staff, of the Department of Parks, wish the general public a safe and enjoyable 2015 Cup Match Holiday.
The cooperation of dog owners and handlers in abiding by the Regulations and Policies is greatly appreciated. 1988 Bermuda National Park Regulations. If further information is required please contact the Department of Parks at 236-5902.
Horses in Parks and on Public Beaches
The Department of Parks is informing stables, horse owners, handlers, and the general public that the 1988 Bermuda National Park Regulations under the jurisdiction of the 1986 Bermuda National Parks Act will change regarding horses on the public beaches. The Regulations are as follows: • As of the 1st May 2015 until the 31st October 2015 horses are NOT PERMITTED to be on any beach in South Shore Park ( inclusive of the following beaches; Horseshoe Bay, Peel Bay, Butt’s Beach, Wafer Rocks Beach, Chaplin Bay, Stonehole Bay, Jobson’s Cove and Warwick Long Bay) Johns Smith’s Bay, Elbow Beach and Shelly Bay. • From the 1st May 2015 until the 31st October 2015, owners and handlers of horses may take or ride the horses on all other public beaches with the following restrictions; owners and handlers can ONLY take or ride the horses below the high water mark between the hours or 5:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m.
BONFIRES visit www.bermudalaws.bm The Park Ranger Service would like to advise all Park/ Beach patrons to be mindful of the rules and regulations outlined for recreational open fires as mandated by The Bermuda National Parks Act 1986 and The Bermuda National Parks Regulations 1988. Please draw your attention to the following rules in accordance with the Bermuda National Parks Act • • • •
• Horses can be on the trails and dunes in South Shore Park at any time. The cooperation of stable owners, as well as horse owners and handlers, in abiding by The Bermuda National Parks Act 1986, is greatly appreciated. 1988 Bermuda National Park Regulations
Absolutely No Paint, Spray Paint, Marker or any other form of Graffiti is to be used to mark camp spots. Bermuda National Park Regulations and 1986 Bermuda Parks Act is greatly appreciated.
1986 and the Bermuda National Parks Regulations 1988. Bonfires must be housed in or on a metal apparatus (e.g. a metal barbeque). Bonfires must be thoroughly extinguished and properly disposed (see steps 1-4 below) of at the conclusion of the period granted by the permit. Steps to properly extinguish and dispose of Bonfires: 1. Allow wood to burn completely to ash and/or cool embers. 2. Continuously flood with water until hissing sound stops, then stir ashes and embers with a shovel until apparatus is cool enough for safe handling (this step may need to be repeated several times). 3. DO NOT BURY THE FIRE PIT as the fire may continue to smolder and possibly reignite causing potential harm to self, others and surrounding environment. 4. Once cool enough to handle, remove metal apparatus and place next to the nearest Parks trash bin.
Special points to note; • Bonfires must be continuously under the care and direction of a competent adult 18 years or older. • Bonfires must be held on beaches only. • Only utilize dry wood for bonfire use (e.g. drift wood). • The use of fully assembled pellets as a burning platform is strictly prohibited. • No glass bottles are to be burned or disposed of in the bonfire.
family life
BY CARLA SEELY, VP OF PENSION AND INVESTMENT AT FREISENBRUCH-MEYER GROUP
Ask a
“Financial Advisor” First Question Person background: Janet 35, married with 2 children struggling when it comes to paying annual private school fees.
Q
I was recently talking to a friend about how overwhelming it is when private school fees are due, she mentioned there are savings programs that can help. I would like to know more about them and when should I think about saving for university or technical college?
A – Hi Janet, thanks for the question.
Firstly, let me say that it can be challenging when you are running a household, paying your monthly bills and trying to “earmark” money for annual expenses. As I say to my clients, you have no control over what things cost but you can control where you choose to spend your money. In today’s market all in with education costs, uniforms, text books and extra-curricular activities you are looking at approximately $25,000 annually per child. Is there a source you can quote for this? Paying out approximately $50,000 per year, while also trying to set aside funds for tertiary education can be a tall order, but your friend is right, there are savings programs available to help. Let’s start with school fees. My recommendation is based upon the discipline of setting money aside each month. You can choose a simple monthly savings plan through your bank, where you open a separate account and then set up a standing order to have money transferred from your current account to the new savings account each month, with NO ATM access. By the end of the year if you split the school fees equally you will have the funds available plus a little interest made to cover those school fees. (unfortunately, this does not address the question ‘how can I pay fees due now AND save for next year’s at the same time? I do not have an answer, Carla, just want you to be ready for that). Alternatively, and a trend I am seeing is parents making additional voluntary contributions into their pension plan. Why? 40
(ie, makes automatic deductions and puts your money that one further step away from easy access) You need to advise your employer about having additional money deducted directly from your paycheck and directed into your pension plan. These additional voluntary contributions will NOT be locked-in and will be available when you are ready to pay your annual school fees. Now with regards to saving for University or Technical College my recommendation is the sooner the better. There are some long-term education savings plans offered where the funds become available when the child is ready to study abroad. It is important to note, do your homework and research these programmes to decide which one will work best for you and your budget.
Second Question Person background: Michael and Annette, 48 and 51, married, started family late in life, and have one child 7 years old. They have aging parents who need help.
Q
My wife and I have been fortunate, we chose careers that provide us both with a steady income and the ability to provide a sound future for our child. However my parents are getting older and I can see in the not too distant future I
create a comprehensive financial plan. The financial planner will factor in these scenarios and provide you with the analytics to made educated decisions on your present and future financial commitments and savings. The planner will show you the impact on your finances and also the impact on your retirement. They will give you clear guidance on how and when you should start handling your parents’ financial struggles.
may need to start covering some of their expenses. Any suggestions on how to plan financially for this?
A – Hi Michael, thanks for the question. I am not sure if you have heard the term “Sandwich Generation”, but your prevailing situation is a clear example of the term. The definition is, “Sandwiched between the younger generation you are supporting and the older generation that you will be supporting”. My recommendation is to sit down and meet with a financial planner to
Protect
Your Home and Family, Not Your Lender
Carla Seely is the Vice President of Pension and Investments at Freisenbruch-Meyer, if you would like any further details please contact cseely@fmgroup.bm or call 441 297 8686
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41
family life
BY JOHN DOHERTY, EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, PROPERTY AND CASUALTY, THE ARGUS GROUP
Congratulations, You’re Buying
a Car!
Here’s What You Need to Know If you are in the market to buy a car, congratulations! It is an exciting decision and one that takes time. Most likely, you’ve been saving up for this big purchase and have done some research on brands, safety features and pricing along the way. Car insurance, like all forms of insurance, gives you peace of mind and protects you in the event of an accident. The Transport Control Department (TCD) administers the operation of all motor vehicles in Bermuda. TCD requires that all vehicles be insured. Ultimately, car insurance is a protection to help you in the event of a car accident. Here’s what all car owners need to know about car insurance. 42
First, there are different levels of car insurance and you should select an insurance that is best suited to meet the needs of you and your family. Argus provides two levels of car insurance: Third Party Only and Comprehensive. Third Party Only will cover your legal liability for injury or damage caused to another vehicle, property and/or person in the event of an accident. It does not cover any loss or damage to your own vehicle. Third Party Only is the minimum insurance required by law. The standard Limit of Indemnity, or maximum amount Argus will pay for an individual claim, is five million dollars. The Comprehensive insurance option offers more protection. It covers everything that the Third Party Only option offers plus it includes cover for loss of or accidental damage to your own vehicle. Car premiums, what you must pay in order to obtain the insurance, are based on the main drivers and their past driving experience. If you are in the market for insurance, be sure to obtain a quote. To do so, you will need to provide information on the car and the drivers. You’ll need to know the type, age and value of the vehicle and you will be asked the age and driving experience of the main drivers. To purchase car insurance, the same information above will be asked by your insurance provider. Argus, like most insurance companies, will provide you with an application form to initiate your insurance policy. It is important to know that insurance is unique to the car and drivers who are listed in the policy. When buying a second-hand car, it is not possible for insurance to be transferred between the seller and the buyer of a vehicle. The buyer must arrange with an insurance company for new insurance. Be sure to abide by the rules of the road and to keep your insurance and vehicle license current. If you are in a car accident, call the Bermuda Police at 911. The police and ambulance will help you in the event of injury. Be sure to exchange contact information (names, email address, phone numbers) and insurance information with all parties involved to assist in filing your insurance claim. If you are looking to purchase a car or need to update your insurance, talk to the experts at Argus to learn about your options and to help protect your vehicle and your family. John Doherty is a Chartered Property and Casualty Underwriter and holds an Associate in Risk Management, an Associate in Reinsurance and several certificates and diplomas in general insurance.
The Gow School is a college prep boarding and day school for students, grades 7-12, with dyslexia or similar language-based learning disabilities. By combining a structured program and environment with flexibility, individualization, and room for fun, Gow provides a rich school experience. This is precisely what dyslexic students need to learn. 2491 Emery Rd • South Wales, NY 14139 P 716.687.2001 • F 716.687.2003 • gow.org
www.bermudaparent.bm Health_Parenting Magazine Ad.indd 1
43 5/16/14 3:37 PM
Empowering Children to Change the World
ONE ANIMAL AT A TIME
Studies have shown that children learn cruel and violent behaviour from those around them, and that animal abuse often precedes violence toward other people. Humane education is one way the Bermuda SPCA can reach future generations. The Bermuda SPCA’s Humane Education programs teach people of all ages but especially children, to understand and care for the animals in our lives by fostering compassion, respect, and empathy for all living things through: 44
• increasing children’s understanding of animals and their needs • educating the public on the importance of animal issues and how they affect society • emphasizing the connection between pets and people in our daily lives • teaching the basics of safety around animals to ensure positive humananimal interactions
The Bermuda SPCA believes that education is key in prevention of cruelty and neglect and for encouraging responsible pet ownership. Our humane education programs foster compassion, empathy and respect through four program pillars: School Lessons, Shelter Tours, Camps and Presentations.
SCHOOL PROGRAM – The SPCA has established a program available from preschool to IGCSEs providing lessons per year group. These lessons allow the teacher to incorporate humane education into their curriculum whether it is Mathematics, English or Science, to name a few. For example, we delivered a P5 math lesson with the focus being on what a cat needs from a responsible pet owner. Then it’s followed with an activity of word problems that the students work through to get an idea of how much owning a cat costs per year. To learn more contact the SPCA’s Education Officer at jcorbett@spca.bm. SHELTER TOURS – are 45 minutes in length. The first half of the tour takes place in the Amy Outerbridge Clendenen Building where we share what SPCA does, how animals end up at the shelter and what we can do to help. The second half of the tour is walking through the shelter and getting a hands on look at the animals that have been surrendered, abandoned or abused. To book a tour of the SPCA shelter email info@spca.bm. YOUTH CAMPS – The SPCA runs camps during school holidays with ages ranging from 8 – 14yrs. Each week camp-
ers are immersed in animal-themed activities and are challenged, in fun and engaging ways, to learn about responsible animal care, animal facts and to develop positive, respectful relationships between people, animals and nature. All of our activities have been designed by the Bermuda SPCA to incorporate positive animal welfare themes. For more information on camps visit www.spca.bm.
PRESENTATIONS – includes talks to large school audiences and community groups about the work the SPCA does in our community, Animal Care, Healthy Living and Dog Safety. Topics are often tailored to the audiences’ interest. To book a presentation email info@spca.bm The SPCA’s mission is to provide effective, lawful means for the prevention of cruelty to animals; promote the education of the general public on the care and wellbeing of all animals and encourage and promote kindness to animals. For more information on the SPCA’s programs visit their website www.spca.bm or call 236-7333.
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Should You Leave the
AC on for Your Pet? It’s a question that’s bothering me more this year than ever before, because, this year, I’m not living in an upper unit condo on a hill, where my windows stay open and ceiling fans push the breezes around all day. No, I’m living in an apartment that faces a courtyard and has sliding glass doors that can’t be left open even a crack. And why does that even matter? Because I have a dog. Yes, I subscribe to that set of humans who probably care more about their pets than they do themselves. My dog goes to his groomer more often than I go to my hairdresser – and, yes, my friends and family think I’m as crazy as the cat-lady next door. So do you think I would let my puppy-cute little fur ball of a Yorkshire Terrier suffer in the nasty Bermuda summer heat? No way! What to do? Do I now need to keep the A/C on all day for Fido? (Not his real name. Alias used to protect his identity. And mine). It’s time to ask the professionals! I turn to the Men in Blue at BAC - the experts on chill. While they tell me that there are all kinds of good reasons to keep the air conditioning running 24/7 in the summer months (especial46
ly if I have an energy-efficient model), I really should talk to my vet about Fido. So I do, and Dr. Lucy of CedarTree Vets has plenty to say: “Keeping your air conditioner on during the day depends on the breed of dog. In Bermuda, longhaired dogs may actually need air conditioning all year round, depending on the humidity level on any given day. But shorthaired dogs might not need it at all if they have enough shade, circulating air and fresh water. If you do leave the air conditioner on, bear in mind that dogs don’t usually like to lay directly in front of the airflow from the unit, so make sure their bed is sheltered – and kept away from direct sunlight as well. And lets not forget the great outdoors, while we’re talking about summer:
• Pool water – it can be deceptively hot in the
summer, so check the temperature before you let your dog jump in.
• Tarmac – stick to early morning or late evening walks, because the tarmac on roads and parking lots gets extremely hot and can burn your dog’s paw pads.
• Cars – never leave a pet (or child!) in a locked
car with windows that are either closed or cracked open a little. It takes mere minutes for dogs to overheat in a hot car.
Most importantly, get to know your breed and what they can handle as far as heat and humidity is concerned and, if in doubt, consult your vet for advice. And if you’re in any doubt whether your dog is overheating, call your vet immediately. It’s a real emergency.” So, the answer, for me, is clear. Conserving all kinds of energy seems to be the right way to go. You can choose open windows, fans or all-day air conditioning. All Fido cares about is his air, water and shade.
CHILL WITH THE MEN IN BLUE The heat is here, so power up and switch your system ON this summer LISTEN: Any continuous unusual rattling or grinding sounds may signal a potential problem.
CHECK INSIDE UNITS: Clean or replace unit filters. If the unit smells musty, lightly spray metal coils with specialised product.
CHECK OUTDOOR UNITS: Replace damaged cords and cables. Clean units with a garden hose to remove any salt, debris or blockages for continuous airflow during operation.
9 Mill Creek Road, Pembroke Tel: 292-0881 Open Monday-Friday 8:00am – 5:00pm Saturday 8:00am – 12:00pm www.bac.bm
Call us. 292-0881. The experts on chill.
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How to Save More in the Home
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
S
aving for a child’s future education is a common goal or desire for most parents; however, in these economic times, finding money to save has become more challenging for many. Becoming more energy efficient will provide you with the opportunity not only to save the environment, but also to save money as well. Bermuda is a small island in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, and without a doubt, resources are limited. By taking on energy conscious methods you can save money now, and aid in saving the environment for future generations. For some, the formula for energy efficiency is “big money equals big savings”. In some cases that may be true, but being energy efficient is not solely about purchasing electric vehicles and solar panels. The easiest place to start is at home. Every room in the house provides the opportunity to make major savings over time, and can be implemented by every member of the family. Saving can be as easy as switching out a light bulb. BELCO would like to share some easy steps you can take that will result, not only in a more energy efficient household, but perhaps more important for you, the ability to decrease what you spend on your electricity bill so that you can deposit that money into your child’s savings account. 48
BY BELCO
Kitchen Let your refrigerator breathe. Remember to clean out the coils and try not to set the temperature too low. Keep the refrigerator between 38-42 ̊F and the freezer between 0-5 ̊F. Give the oven a break. Switch out the oven with the microwave or the toaster oven to cook vegetables and warm up leftovers. Microwaves use up to 50% less than electric ovens. Turn off the bigger stove burners. Use the smallest burners on the electric stove as much as possible. The small burners use less heat, which will ultimately use less electricity.
Bedroom and Living Room Switch to Energy Star products. With ceiling fans, dehumidifiers, air conditioners and TV’s, Energy Star products can use between 20-50% less energy than other conventional models. Try LED Light bulbs. Light emitting diode bulbs (LED) are estimated to produce between 50-70% in energy savings. Although they cost more than incandescent light bulbs, LED lights have a lifetime of 50,000 hours, which will result in savings.
Be conscious of phantom power. Phantom power, also called leaking electricity, occurs when electronics that may be switched off are still using power while they are plugged in. Switch off phantom power by plugging electronics into a power bar with a timer or auto shut-off. Phantom power can amount to 20% of household electricity use. Down size the TV. Easier said than done, bigger TV’s amount to more energy consumption, with a smaller TV less energy is being consumed.
Bathroom Wrap the water heater and use a timer. Wrapping the water heater in an insulated blanket can reduce heat loss. Integrate a timer onto the heater to turn on when it’s needed.
Laundry Ditch the dryer. Reduce energy consumption by hanging clothes out to dry rather than using an electric dryer.
Outdoors Mother Nature knows best. Open the shutters to let in more light, sunlight is not only a source of Vitamin D but it is also a natural heater. Saving energy doesn’t have to be hard and neither does saving money. BELCO is a big supporter of a greener Bermuda, from building self sustaining homes to changing a light bulb; no effort is too big or too small. It’s time to think green Bermuda. BELCO challenges its customers to take out the time to switch off a light or two and Switch to Save this summer. For more information and tips on energy efficiency visit www.belco.bm.
Do you know that we make
CAKES FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS?
Surprise!! FOR YOUR PERSONALIZED AND PARTY NEEDS
24 hours notice required
Island Spice Restaurant Adults and Childrens Haircuts
Come in and browse our extensive Party Supplies!! www.islandspice.bm
Middle Road Warwick
122 Middle Road, Warwick (next to Island Spice Restaurant) Call 236-1421 Adults and Childrens Haircuts Monday - Saturday 8am -8pm, Sundays 10am -7pm
238-7944 238-7944
Open 7 days a week Mon - Sat: 11:00am - 10pm • Sundays: 3:00pm - 9:00pm islandspice.bm
8 King’s Square, St. George’s Email: info@surprise.bm Website: www.surprise.bm
Telephone: 292-2638
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Give him
a healthy life every day
He's family
COMPLETE AND BALANCED
PROTEINS FOR STRONGER MUSCLES
OF NUTRITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
We carry a large supply of party decorations and supplies for your special occasion
PARTY PLUS 63 South Road - Devonshire DV 08
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Mon-Fri 10am-6pm Sat 9am-5pm Sun 10am-1pm
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Celebrating over 20 years of being a part of your Super-friendships!
#3 Marsh Lane, Middle Rd, Devonshire 236-1533 noahsark@link.bm www.noahsark.bm
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Cutest
Kids and Pets
AMATEUR PHOTO CONTEST
Cover Winner
Grand Prize Winner for Dog
Grand Prize Winner for Cat
Grand Prize Winner for Pet
52
Winners!
Celebrate Your Child’s Birthday! Cruz Minks-Cole June 18 Happy 3rd Birthday to such an AWESOME kid! Love, Mom and Dad and the entire family.
Brielle Farie June 13th Happy 5th Birthday to our beautiful girl Brielle! With love from Mommy, Daddy and Isabel.
KeNahri Furbert June 13 Happy 3rd Birthday KeNahri. Love you and continue to be a star! From mommy & Keke!!!
Austin Smith May 25 Happy Birthday Austin!
Josie Fox May 22
Tenye’ Frost April 18
Happy Birthday Juicy from Mommy, Daddy, N’Kobi, Aunties, Nana & Papa
Happy second birthday to our beautiful sunshine! Love Mommy, Daddy and baby brother.
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57
Directory PRESCHOOLS Onion Patch Academy St. Paul A.M.E., 59 Court St., Hamilton T: 296-6466 E: info@opacademy.bm Once Upon a Time Nursery School Chapter One & Two Wesley Methodist Church, 41 Church St. Hamilton Tel: 504-7713 E: onceuponatime@northrock.bm
58
Tree Tops Ltd St. Mark’s Parish Hall 53 South Road, Smiths Tel: 236-9281 Website: www.treetopsbda.com Tree Tops II Ltd St. Anne’s Church Hall 26 Church Road, Southampton T: 238-6025 Website: www.treetopsii.com
Chatterbox Preschool 10 Church St. Southampton SN 02 T: 236-7190 E: chatterbox@bercon.bm MSA - Kindergarten 19 Dundonald Street West, Hamilton T: 292-4134 E: msaoffice@msa.bm
Happy Valley Child Care Centre 17 Happy Valley Road, Pembroke T: 295-4087 E: answan@gov.bm Website: www.happyvalleychildcarecenter.com Aeries Adventure 121 Middle Road, Devonshire T: 799-1504 E: aeriesadventures@hotmail.com Website: www.aeriesadventures.com
Cleaning Your CarJust Got Easier!
B
usy days and weekends? Budget-Jet Car Wash & Valet Services may be your answer. Owners David and Tracy Salawu opened their car washing business in 2015, after first testing the concept in Nigeria. The venture was successful and the Salawus decided if it works in Nigeria, why not in Bermuda? They transformed a vacant plot of land on North Shore and opened for business! The Salawus say the response has been encouraging. “We’ve had company executives stop by to have their car washed and rated our service as excellent,” says Mrs. Salawu. Mr. and Mrs. Salawu left Bermuda in 1994 for missionary work in West Africa and England. When they came home, the island’s economic landscape had changed. Mrs. Salawu, who’d worked in the insurance industry for 18 years, says she couldn’t find employment. So the couple decided to open their own business - with a jet-powered car wash that uses jet-wash machines, blowers and vacuums. Unlike an automated car wash, this ‘touchless’ service avoids the swirls often left behind on a car’s bodywork when hand-washed. Vehicles are given a power-jet snow wash, which is a waxedshine shampoo, followed by a power-dry treatment. The Salawus say they’re trying to keep prices affordable. They use 100% biodegradable and environmentally-friendly products. Their car washing team work hard to provide a good valuable service for your money. Mr. Salawu says “Our detail and valet pick up and drop off services are especially great – get your car washed while you’re at work.” Two of the couple’s children are part of the Budget-Jet team, helping with business administration and customer service. Their eldest son wrote the car washes popular radio advertisement! Prices start at $35 for a small, exterior only, car wash. Other services include interior steam cleaning, full detailing and, valet pick-up and drop-off. Stop by to have your car cleaned, or call or book online. They offer discounted deals
for fleet car washing and a 5% discount for seniors. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 8:00am to 5:00pm. For the full range of Budget-Jet Car Wash & Valet Services: www.budget-jet.com. Call 705-(BJET) 2538 or 705-1392.
Budget-Jet Car Wash & Valet Services www.budget-jet.com
NOW OPEN!! SNOW Washing is our Business
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SERVICES Exterior Car Washing Exterior & Interior Cleaning Mini Detailing Full Detailing Valet (pick up & drop off) Wax Protection & Headlight Restoration
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Ask about our Promotional Discounts & Free Car Washes!
154 North Shore Road • Pembroke (opp Grace Methodist Church) 705-1392 • 705(BJET)2538 • Summer Hours: Monday - Saturday 8:30am - 5:30pm
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59
FR
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INSPIRE WOMEN
SUMMER
magazine
Don’t miss out! Visit www.inspirewomenmag.com and sign up for a digital copy
PAMELIA RE RA FEinR g With
kids
Got a great picture of your child? Send it and it may appear in our next issue. Send it in by email to photos@bermudaparent.bm
WOMEN THE FINANCIALLYT INDEPENDEN WOMAN
available June 2016
BPM
2016
Lead Humility
RAISING KIDS WHO ARE R SMA T ABOUT MONEY
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