Crafting a meticulously thought-out Curriculum Vitae (CV) is a critical step when applying for a scholarship, as it not only outlines academic qualifications, but it can make the difference between being short-listed for an interview and being passed over for an award.

So, with your future at stake, where do you start?

I sat down with Heather Mello, head of human resources at Conduit Reinsurance, and a member of the Scholarship Award Committee for the Association of Bermuda International Companies (ABIC), to get some advice regarding how to draft a CV that highlights your goals and strengths in a way that aligns with the values of the scholarship provider.

If you have never needed to create a CV before, how do you suggest that an applicant gets started?

“The absolute first place to start for me is traditional pen and paper,” said Ms Mello. “Think about where you want to go to school and what you wish to study and how that links to what you have been doing during your time in High School.”

Taking the time to make notes on paper “will help you gather your thoughts and decide what are the most important pieces that tell a positive and truthful story of you as a candidate,” she explained.

Is it a good idea to use an online CV template?

Ms Mello said yes, but it should not be your only resource. She recommended looking at a variety of templates sourced from working parents, school guidance counsellors, as well as Microsoft Word. “LinkedIn is also a great place to look for ideas,” she said. “A simple search for “resume writing” on the home page will produce a wealth of articles, interviews and posts from recruiters on the topic.”

Also, keep in mind that if you are applying for multiple scholarships, it is worth the effort to customise your CV a bit to showcase the details most relevant to each individual application.

Would you recommend asking ChatGPT to write your CV?

While she admitted that she has yet to encounter anyone who has attempted this, Ms Mello believes that there are pros and cons to this idea. “I think it would be fine to use an AI tool as a source of ideas regarding what types of things to say, but AI does not know you as a person so it will never portray your true value as well as you can do it yourself,” she said.

If you don’t have a lot of content for your CV, what should you do?

Recruiters and scholarship committees understand that students don’t necessarily have a lot of work experience to put on their resume. “Just put down the things that make you stand out and the steps you are taking to prepare for your intended career and course of study,” she said.  Whatever you do, avoid exaggerating or including untrue information. “A scholarship committee or a potential employer will eventually uncover exaggerations, and if there are exaggerations that come to light during the interview and selection process, you could be excused from the candidate pool,” she cautioned.

Besides good grades, what sort of things are the scholarship sponsors looking for in an application?

“This is a situation where spelling and grammar definitely matter so it is also a good idea to get someone to proofread everything before you submit it,” said Ms Mello. “It may sound simple, but a clear and complete application goes a long way when committees or recruiters are developing their candidate pool. If the scholarship is based on financial need, for example, be sure to disclose not just your family’s true ability to contribute to the cost of your education, but also the details of your backup plan if you are not successful in obtaining a scholarship.”

It’s also important to take the time to provide a complete picture of who you are by including your community service involvements, volunteer experiences, and any part-time or summer employment.

What are some of the most misunderstood aspects of the scholarship application process?

According to Ms Mello, a failure to believe in yourself might just be your biggest obstacle. “If you do not even apply, you take yourself out of the race before it has even started,” she said.

More importantly, understand that from the moment you embark on your quest for a scholarship award, you will be expected to demonstrate exemplary conduct both on and offline at all times. As an award recipient, you will be deemed to be representing your school, your family, your country as well as the company that has provided your scholarship, and poor grades or inappropriate conduct of any kind can result in the loss of your scholarship.

General tips for preparing for a scholarship interview:

Carefully read the details of the scholarship that you are applying for and come prepared to discuss them. For example, if you are applying for an ABIC scholarship, you should certainly be prepared to answer questions related to the business categories that ABIC supports.

Be ready to discuss not just what you want to study but also why you have chosen this path and how you see yourself giving back to Bermuda once you have completed your education.

Be ready to discuss how you have learned from your experiences, mentioning things that you have listed on your CV.

Keep a cool head and remember that the selection committee wants to help Bermudian students achieve their career and educational goals.

The application process for any scholarship can be a difficult task, but very rewarding if handled properly. Spending time and effort to research the entire process is an essential part of the exercise.

The post Make Your CV Stand Out appeared first on RG Magazines.

BSID was initially formed to create a social network for designers on the island and began offering scholarships to Bermudian students in 1992. To date, the society has distributed approximately $175,000, generated through fund-raising activities, to assist thirty-six students studying architecture and interior design.

What are the typical characteristics of a person who would be successful in a career in interior architecture?

“There’s a lot more to this sort of design work than just understanding colour theory and making things pretty,” said Darcy Robertson, design director at Commercial Interiors Group and BSID president. “Functional interior design is about determining where the walls are going to go and how the space is going to be configured.”

Are you able to visualize and conceptualise spaces? Are you outgoing and enjoy meeting people? Would you like to use your talents to create aesthetically pleasing and functional environments that improve quality of life? Then a career in interior architecture might be right for you.

“Interior architects typically excel in math, science, and technical skills – conceptualising spaces and the associated health and safety specifications is a very detailed and technical process,” Mr Robertson explained, “as is the ability to understand building codes, materials and construction methods.”

Interior designers frequently work closely with individuals from a variety of companies on a single project, so strong written and verbal communication, and collaboration skills are necessary, particularly when it comes to brainstorming solutions to unexpected challenges or changes.

Equally, the ability to listen to the client and embrace their ideas is important. “It is not about what we like personally as a designer, it is about understanding and embracing what the client wants to achieve and bringing that vision to life,” he said.

What is the BSID Award Selection Committee looking for in an applicant?

To qualify for a scholarship, an applicant must have already completed at least one year of a Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) programme and been accepted into their second year of either an undergraduate, or a graduate programme.

“The awards are open to Bermudians and PRC Holders (or eligible to acquire PRC) who also have a demonstrated financial need, and who have obtained an academic letter of recommendation as well as a personal letter of recommendation,” said Mr Robertson.

“Naturally, good grades are important, but the essay that we require applicants to write explaining in their own words why they chose to study interior design, and why they feel eligible to be a recipient of this award is a significant deciding factor because personal interviews are not part of our selection process.”

Why is now the ideal time to pursue a career in interior architecture?

“The pandemic showed us the importance of designing interior spaces that adapt to the new ways that we are living, working, and using space,” said Mr Robertson.

“As much as remote working will continue to be popular, you can’t always stay home. Interior architecture for offices, restaurants and retail now revolves around how to bring people safely into these spaces. It has also highlighted the importance of understanding the impact that the materials and finishes that are utilised within these spaces can have upon our health.”

What sort of career opportunities exist within the interior design industry in Bermuda?

“When you consider the range of companies that are members of the BSID, it’s easy to see just how many different types of opportunities exist,” he explained.

Some career opportunities are linked to architecture, such as tile, kitchen and bath suppliers, while others are linked to facilities and project management.

“Even overseas contractors who are doing work in Bermuda need to consult with local experts when it comes to determining whether materials and fittings will fit in shipping containers or whether prefabricated custom cabinets will fit into a stairwell,” he said.

How are advances in AI impacting the practice of interior architecture?

Mr Robertson felt that it was still unclear how advances in AI will impact the industry as a whole, but he strongly believes that there will always be a need for human designers. “AI can’t experience the emotional response that we feel when we enter a space. That is an intuitive response and we don’t all react the same way to our surroundings,” he said.

How is heightened environmental and sustainability awareness influencing the industry?

Particularly in the area of industrial design, Mr Robertson said it has become increasingly important to consider the product lifecycle of all of the materials and fittings that are being installed. Because, in Bermuda, all our building materials are imported, they already have a carbon footprint attached to them, and designers are continually being challenged to find new ways to repurpose existing elements instead of just sending them to the landfill.

A career in interior architecture offers a dynamic and rewarding path for individuals with a passion for design and spatial aesthetics. This profession allows for constant creativity and innovation and encourages individuals to become lifelong learners to stay ahead of evolving trends.

For more information on the BSID scholarship visit: www.bsid.bm/forms-applications

The post The Shape of Things to Come appeared first on RG Magazines.

For more than 50 years the Construction Association of Bermuda (CAOB) has been providing educational and career development opportunities for Bermudians pursuing a career in a building profession. While this once might have been limited to applicants pursuing a university degree in architecture or engineering, today’s applicants might well be studying for a trade certification, project management degree, or cutting-edge AI-based technology for the industry.

According to Bryan Adams, a director at ABM Limited and current vice-president of the CAOB, “the association membership is composed of construction companies, general contractors, and a wide range of industry suppliers, and we are actively encouraging applicants who are studying applied skills such as carpentry, drywalling, plumbing, welding, masonry, and surveying to apply for one of the awards”.

Is this a good time to pursue a career in the construction industry in Bermuda?

As much as one might be tempted to argue that this industry does not have a strong future, because Bermuda has very little undeveloped land, Mr Adams said that nothing could be further from the truth.

“Although Bermuda has a limited land mass, there will always be opportunities in the construction industry for ongoing maintenance and upgrades,” he explained. “Everywhere you look, alternative materials, AI applications, and even 3D printing innovations are starting to be introduced, and we need Bermudians to be up to speed with these new skills.

“Due to rising costs and the need to adapt to climate change, new building products, energy-efficient systems, and technological innovations are being introduced regularly,” he continued. “We really want to encourage Bermudians who are currently in the midst of obtaining certification in construction industry-related programmes of study, and who intend to return to the island once they have completed their education, to apply for an award.”

What academic qualifications and attributes would make someone well-suited for a career in the construction industry?

“It’s fair to say that, in addition to good grades, whether you are interested in obtaining a university degree or a trade certification, you would need a good solid grounding in mathematics and enjoy working with your hands,” said Mr Adams. “But, computer literacy and IT skills are also important because more and more aspects of construction are driven by technology these days.”

“We also tend to prefer applicants who have already completed at least one year of their course of study,” he added.

What are the typical attributes of someone who excels in the construction industry?

People with diverse skills and interests can find success in engineering and construction if they are detail-oriented and have a genuine passion and commitment to the field.

As a rule, problem solvers and analytical thinkers who enjoy analysing situations and applying logic and critical thinking to assess different scenarios, are well-suited for the construction industry. Adaptable team players with strong communication skills who possess a willingness to embrace innovation will enjoy this industry as it is constantly evolving.

What is your advice regarding how to prepare for an interview with the scholarship selection committee?

“It’s very important to be ready to discuss not just the programme that you want to study, but what you hope to get out of your experience, and how you hope to use this to build the industry when you return to Bermuda at the completion of your education,” Mr Adams explained. “The objective of the awards programme is to further the education of Bermudians who genuinely intend to return to the island and make a contribution”.

What if you are not sure where to apply to school for the type of certification that you want to obtain?

CAOB will be happy to direct students to accredited programmes in the US, Canada and the UK, but the applicability of the programme a student is considering to job opportunities in Bermuda with CAOB member companies will be evaluated by the scholarship selection committee.

Do you have some general advice regarding how to prepare for an interview?

As with many scholarships, a short list of candidates will be identified from the pool of applicants. “It’s important to submit a complete application and come to the interview prepared to discuss not just what you are studying, but also your volunteer experiences and the efforts that you have been making to seek summer or full-time employment with a CAOB member company,” said Mr Adams.

“CAOB is a registered charity and we hold fundraising events to accumulate the funds necessary to offer the scholarships. Successful award recipients need to be aware that they will be expected to volunteer to assist the association when time permits to help keep the award scheme active for future candidates,” he explained.

CAOB Scholarship Application Criteria

This year CAOB intends to offer three educational awards to exceptional Bermudians considering a career in a building profession including: construction, surveying, engineering, and any construction trade discipline certified by a suitable professional body.

The awards offered will be for the academic year commencing in September and may be renewed, subject to satisfactory academic progress and the number of other potential candidates.

In addition to providing proof of Bermudian status, and demonstrating financial need, candidates must have received acceptance to and, or provide a transcript of their previous year of study in an accredited programme. Also, two written references – one academic and one personal – written by someone in good standing in the community who has known the applicant for at least two years.

Bermudians of all ages are encouraged to seize this opportunity to further their career in the ever-evolving construction industry. With a commitment to fostering education and innovation, CAOB not only opens doors to academic pursuits, but also strives to be a catalyst for the development of Bermuda’s construction landscape.

For More information visit: www.caob.bm/scholarship-career-development

The post Building a Better Future appeared first on RG Magazines.

In fact, the rough-hewn “Cabbens” that many of our ancestors inhabited in the early 1600s were not painted at all, as they were most likely constructed of simple cedar frames covered with a stucco composed of whatever raw materials were available (such as lime, clay, sticks, sand, and turtle or shark oil) – and a roof thatched with Palmetto leaves.

According to The Traditional Home Building Guide published by The Department of Planning and The Bermuda National Trust however, by the I8th century “roofs, walls and even woodwork were regularly coated with limewash, which looks white or dull grey, as protection against the weather” and it is thought that even the palmetto roofs may have been painted on a regular basis.

LIMEWASH: THE FOUNDATION OF PROTECTION

Limewash is created by burning crushed limestone in a kiln and subsequently “slaking” or soaking it in water. The resulting slaked lime is meticulously sieved to eliminate lumps, and additional water is added to achieve a fluid and manageable paint consistency. The limewash is traditionally applied using a course straw brush and must be constantly stirred to prevent solid particles from settling at the bottom.

Even though limewash gave buildings an irregular and slightly shabby appearance unless it had been newly applied, it was a crucial element for preserving the early stone buildings that define Bermuda’s architectural landscape.

LEAD WHITE: A HAZARDOUS YET DURABLE PIGMENT

One of the earliest pigments to be introduced in Bermuda was lead white. Despite its toxicity, it was mixed with linseed oil to create a robust paint for both interior and exterior woodwork. Lasting four to five years, lead white paint disintegrates into dust over time, thus simplifying the preparation for a fresh coat as there is little need for scraping. Due to its toxicity however, its use was discontinued in the 1970’s.

INTRODUCTION OF COLOUR: 18TH CENTURY

Although it is unclear when Bermudians first began to apply coloured pigment to their houses, it is clear that the trend had taken hold by the last third of the 18th century as prints and watercolours from the early 19th century depict a spectrum of colours, including: yellows, browns, reds, and washed-out blues.

Imported pigments, such as ochres, burnt sienna, burnt umber, and Venetian red, were blended to produce a range of earth tones, providing a vivid contrast to the island’s blue skies and turquoise waters. One theory even suggests that in the Victorian Era British soldiers stationed on the island at the time, used random paint colours from their supply ships to fix up their cottages, thus encouraging the practice to catch on.

IMPORTED PIGMENTS AND LOCAL INNOVATIONS

It is worth noting that these early pigments were often imported in their crude form (rocks, earth, bone, and minerals), and were then ground into powders, before being blended with appropriate mediums.

In Bermuda’s isolated setting, it is likely that enterprising locals also concocted their own recipes using locally sourced pigments and there is evidence to suggest that burnt Bermuda clay was mixed with limewash to create yellow-brown or light brick hues – while indigo (which was grown in Bermuda), may have been mixed with white to produce a bluish-grey tint in the 18th century.

TRADITIONAL BERMUDA COLOURS – A DISTINCTIVE PALETTE

The traditional colours for external woodwork in Bermuda were distinctive and practical. Dark green, believed to be a mixture of two parts “Verdigris” (copper salts) to one part lampblack in oil, was used on blinds, doors, and window frames. Flat white was reserved for the windows themselves, providing a crisp contrast against the lush greenery of the island. Occasionally, a medium blue was introduced to woodwork in the 19th century, showcasing the evolution of Bermuda’s architectural aesthetics.

GIVING THE EXTERIOR OF YOUR HOME AN AUTHENTIC MAKEOVER:

Bermuda’s house paint colours tell a tale of adaptation, creativity, and resilience. From the simplicity of limewash to the introduction of imported pigments and local innovations, the island’s architecture has evolved in harmony with its natural surroundings.

Thanks to a project sponsored by Pembroke Paint Company Ltd., researchers from Texas AM were able to analyse the composition of the layers of paint on several of the Bermuda National Trust houses including Verdmont, Tankfield, and Tucker House and then matched the data collected to colours currently available in the Sherwin Williams colour collection.

“Interestingly, the research revealed that most of the early paint colours were quite muted in comparison to the colours that are popular today,” says David Swift of Pembroke Paint.

“Modern paint is water based so there is very little risk of encountering lead paint,” says Mr. Swift. “But proper prep work is essential because each layer of paint that is added to a house increases the overall weight of the paint on the building which in turn increases the likelihood that it will crack and pull away from the building allowing water to seep in.”

Mr. Swift offers the following advice for anyone planning to repaint an old Bermuda house:

• Always start by inspecting the exterior of your dwelling to look for mildew and cracks.

• Water is the enemy of old Bermuda stone and plaster, so it is essential to gently scrape, bleach and fill all cracks before repainting.

• Really old Bermuda homes sometimes have a foundation layer that is chalky or even resembles “cottage cheese” – these need to be treated with special primers and sealers – so ask for advice before proceeding if you come across this.

• Houses built near the water typically accumulate a salt coating on their exterior, while houses located near a main road tend to accumulate soot. This needs to be cleaned off before any priming or painting can take place.

• If you are uncertain exactly what colour your house has been painted, you can scrape a paint chip off the building and bring it in for a free spectrographic analysis to enable it to be colour-matched with a currently available paint colour.

For Further Information Contact: David Swift – Pembroke Paint 292-8368

The post A Palette of History – Bermuda’s Evolving House Paint Colours appeared first on RG Magazines.

But is it really as simple as these viral 90-second videos make it out to be, or is there more to it?

Better yet, is there a difference between what makes a great DIY project – and when you should seek professional help?

I sat down with two Bermuda craftsmen to strip away the hype and get some “pro tips” for working with different types of wood.

Jason Carlington, owner of the Palletable Bermuda Facebook Page first started creating furniture out of discarded pallets during the pandemic as a way to provide for his family. “It was really my wife Danielle who inspired me,” he admits. “She brought me a photo of a wine bottle rack and asked me if I could make it for our kitchen.”

The success of this first simple project got them thinking about other items that they could create from designs that were inspired by images that they found online. “A lot of people have taken an increased interest in spending time outside, so I sold quite a few raised planters as well as rustic outdoor furniture,” he explained.

UPCYCLING RECLAIMED WOOD

Working with pallet wood can be a rewarding experience, and it is also relatively easy to find discarded pallets in Bermuda as just about every importer has a stack of them piled behind their warehouse.

It is important to choose ones that are in reasonably good condition unless you really want to achieve a rustic weathered look for your finished creation.

“It might surprise some people to learn that disassembling the pallet can be the most time-consuming part of any project,” says Mr. Carlington. “The nails and screws come out of a new pallet much more easily than one that has been sitting outside for years.”

“I recommend using a crowbar or hammer and a wood chisel to disassemble the pallet – although a reciprocating saw, or a jigsaw might be required to cut a few of the more stubborn nails,” he explained.

“There is a lot of variation in how they are assembled but as a rule you can try knocking the planks from the backside to expose the nail heads a bit and then pry them off with a chisel,” he says.

TIPS FOR BUILDING WITH PALLET WOOD

• Keep in mind that pallet wood typically has rough edges, and it may be necessary to sand all sides of the boards to avoid splinters.

• Take the time to sketch a detailed plan or blueprint for your furniture piece before starting, which will help you measure accurately and minimize mistakes and make a cut list before you begin sawing up the lengths.

• Remember to give some thought as to how your finished piece will be mounted.

• Be sure to apply an appropriate indoor or outdoor finish depending on the intended use or placement of your finished piece.

• The basic tools required include: a tape measure, hand saw, power drill (or screwdriver), safety goggles and gloves.

Yearning to give that thrifted coffee table a much-needed facelift?

Anthony Madeiros of BSR Group Ltd. in Devonshire recommends that you make sure that you take time to consider what you want your finished project to look like and understand what you are getting into before you start.

“The most important thing is to figure out what type of wood the piece is constructed from, before contemplating any changes,” says Mr. Madeiros. “If the piece is made of pine there is not too much that can go wrong that cannot be fixed, but if the item is made of plywood or MDF your options will be much more limited,” he explains.

If the piece you want to work on is an antique, it is not advisable to do any work on it without first gaining an understanding of its value.

“Particularly if it is made of antique mahogany or Bermuda cedar, the best thing to do is get in touch with us so that we can assist in determining its value and make some recommendations regarding a plan of restoration,” says Mr. Madeiros.

“A full restoration process involves taking the entire piece apart so that the finish can be cleaned using the correct techniques so that the original finish and patina are preserved,” he says. “A lot of people don’t realize that when you are preserving an antique piece of furniture you need to utilize old joinery techniques and animal hide glue.”

TIPS FOR REHABBING THRIFTED FURNITURE

As a rule of thumb, understand that working on wooden furniture is a fairly physical activity and be prepared for the whole endeavour to take more time than you expect.

That said, applying a fashionable chalk paint finish to a piece of thrifted furniture is a simple four-step process involving sanding down the piece, applying a coat of primer, applying the chalk paint, and then sealing the piece with wax to stop it generating dust.

Be aware that products for stripping the old finish off furniture use harsh chemicals that can cause nasty burns – it is essential to wear a mask, gloves, eye protection and a rain jacket to protect yourself from splashes, and all the resulting residue that is scraped off needs to be collected in an old paint can and disposed of responsibly.

When it comes to general maintenance, many manufactured cleaning products actually do more harm than good. Mr. Madeiros recommends only using Goddard’s Cabinet Makers Wax for cleaning and waxing furniture as it stops the wood from drying out.

For Further Information Contact:

Jason Carlington – https:// www.facebook.com/palletablebermuda

Anthony Madeiros – BSR Group Ltd. 236-2886

The post The Do’s and Don’ts of Upcycling Wooden Furniture appeared first on RG Magazines.

Container gardening has numerous advantages over a traditional garden plot as it allows plants to be cultivated in just about any sheltered spot that gets morning sunlight including balconies, and patios, and can be as simple as a few herbs in repurposed yogurt cups on your kitchen windowsill or a complex array of stacking planters yielding enough fresh produce to meet the needs of an entire family.

Regardless of whether you are a complete novice or an experienced green thumb, the initial question beyond what do you want to grow quickly becomes – how do you choose the right containers to meet your needs?

Eugene O’Connor, Co-Owner of Bermuda Green Thumb (a Division of the Bermuda Florist Limited), says that as a rule you can grow shallow root vegetables such as herbs and leafy salad vegetables in just about any container with adequate drainage. When it comes to carrots and potatoes however, “it is all about depth because their root system requires 10-12 inches of soil.”

Bermuda Green Thumb stocks a wide range of horizontal and vertical containers guaranteed to suit every landscape and aesthetic situation, and each comes with its own list of pros and cons – terra-cotta pots for example may be aesthetically pleasing, but they also dry out quickly in Bermuda’s steamy summer weather and will require constant watering.

“If you are older or want to avoid back breaking digging, you could opt for a waist-high raised bed container,” says Mr. O’Connor. “We even have some with wheels so that they can be moved inside in bad weather and then placed back out when the storm is over.”

Containers also offer greater control over soil conditions, enabling gardeners to tailor the soil mix to suit specific plant needs, ensuring better drainage and aeration; and they also make it easy to supplement your soil with organic fertilizer or aged compost to achieve a good yield.

“If your raised bed is particularly large, however, you can fill the bottom half with a mixture of dry branches and other aged forest plant material. This has the advantage of cutting down on the overall weight of the container and the cost of potting mix,” he explains.

How do you find the ideal location for your container?

Regardless of the type of container that you opt for, Mr. Aaron Furbert, who operates Furbert’s Vertical Gardening, also recommends choosing a spot that gets plenty of sunlight that is also sheltered from strong prevailing wind. He specializes in fabricating vertical garden structures which are fashioned from recycled plastic drums making them very durable.

“Vertical gardening is a good way to grow plants in abundance in a small area that would not normally be able to accommodate many plants,” he says. “These containers lift the plants off the ground making them less susceptible to pests and also need less watering because very little of the soil surface area is exposed.”

While you can grow just about anything except for pumpkin and watermelon in a vertical tower, Mr. Furbert recommends plants from the brassica plant family. “Things like lettuce, kale, mustard greens, and arugula do particularly well in vertical towers, as do small flowering plants such as marigolds,” he explained.

How do you decide whether to install a vertical garden or a raised bed?

When deciding between installing a vertical garden or a raised bed, it is important to start by considering where you want to place your garden unit.

Vertical gardens which can grow between 30-120 plants in a single unit (depending on the model that you choose) are ideal for smaller areas, making them an excellent choice for balconies or limited yard space, while raised beds are an excellent choice for larger gardens with access to plenty of sunlight. They also have the advantage of being constructed (or configured) to just about any size and shape.

It is also important to consider the soil requirements of the type of plants you wish to cultivate, as some may thrive better in vertical arrangements, while others may prefer the depth and soil volume of raised beds.

Finally, think about maintenance preferences and accessibility, as raised beds are generally easier to reach and tend to, while vertical gardens may need to be rotated regularly to ensure that plants develop evenly due to their vertical orientation.

And if this all seems like a bit too much effort, Mr. Furbert can also provide organic seedlings and a customized maintenance program to meet individual needs.

Looking to dust off your carpentry skills and start container gardening on a budget?

Why not construct a raised vegetable bed from reclaimed wood?

• Begin by selecting a suitable location with ample sunlight and access to water.

• Outline the bed’s dimensions with sticks and string and then clear the area of grass and weeds.

• Next, construct a wooden frame using recycled lumber cut to the appropriate lengths, and secure the corners with screws or bolts. Keep in mind that you will most likely need at least two rows of boards to achieve a soil depth of 10-12 inches.

• Line the bottom with cardboard or landscaping fabric to discourage weeds from growing up into the bed and then fill the bed with a high-quality soil mix, combining equal parts of garden soil, compost, and peat moss or coconut fibre for good drainage and nutrient retention.

• Be sure to level the soil and water it thoroughly before planting.

• Plant with the veggies of your choice and water as needed.

Whatever your circumstances, container gardening offers flexibility in plant selection and empowers individuals to create beautiful, functional gardens while overcoming space limitations and enhancing gardening success.

For more information contact:

Eugene O’Connor – Bermuda Green Thumb 236-5862

Aaron Furbert – Furbert’s Vertical Gardening 777-8125

The post Tips for container gardening in Bermuda appeared first on RG Magazines.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN VEGAN AND PLANT-BASED? 

According to Google, a vegan lifestyle involves avoiding all animal products including meat, dairy, eggs, and other animal-derived ingredients as well as advocating for animal rights; but “planted-based” simply refers to a diet comprised of only plant foods, meaning that if you consume a plant-based diet but wear leather shoes you would not be considered “vegan”. 

WHAT ARE THE HEALTH AND WELLNESS BENEFITS OF A PLANT-BASED DIET? 

The commonly accepted health benefits of a plant-based diet include lowered risk of heart disease and certain cancers, better weight management, boosted immune system, lower blood pressure and inflammation, improved digestive and kidney function and lower risk of chronic diseases including type2 diabetes. 

WHY CONSIDER A PLANT-BASED DIET? 

It goes without saying that the potential health and wellness benefits of consuming a plant powered diet are about as varied as the reasons for adopting this regimen. For Trevor Johnstone, the owner of PlantBasedFuelBda.com, the passion for a plant-based diet was inspired by a documentary film that he saw while working in Spain which changed his perception about food itself. 

A classically trained chef who has interned at the Versace Mansion in South Beach, as well as working for Mandarin Hotels, Chef Trevor believes that most island residents need to take more time to learn about nutrition. 

“Most people think that they need to eat animals and animal products in order to get calcium and protein, but that protein is actually coming from the plants that the animals consumed. When you eat the plants directly you are getting a cleaner source of protein without all the saturated fat and cholesterol,” he says. 

“Let’s face it, the easiest way to control your weight is to control what you put in your mouth,” he explains. “But a vegan diet is not just about losing weight. It is about increasing longevity, vitality and avoiding chronic diseases.” 

Plant Based Nutritionist and Personal Trainer Shawn Talbot, who owns NourishedBermuda. com, agrees. 

Although he grew up eating meat on a regular basis, he too now consumes and promotes a plant-based diet for health reasons. “I never thought I would adopt a plant-based lifestyle,” says Shawn. “But when my father was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, I started researching for ways to help him get better.” 

“Nourished Bermuda is definitely a passion project for me”, says Shawn. “My mission is to give people food that tastes good and feels good, and a diet that is high in the right proportions of fiber, protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats will do that for you.” 

IS A PLANT-BASED DIET EXPENSIVE? 

Although “vegan” food has a reputation for being expensive, both men agree that this not the case. 

“Purchasing whole foods is still the most economical way to consume nutrient-dense food,” says Chef Trevor. “You can easily feed a family on a budget with things like brown rice, beans, broccoli and carrots, but trick is to know how to flavour them.” 

It’s important to note that, as with any diet, while there are potential benefits to a plant-based diet, it’s essential to consult with a trusted healthcare professional before making changes to your diet, particularly if you are elderly or have underlying health complications to ensure you get all the necessary nutrients 

The post The Benefits of a Plant-Based Diet appeared first on RG Magazines.

Although keeping chickens dramatically decreased in popularity once refrigeration and modern shipping methods became readily available, people are once again taking an interest in raising chickens in part due to an increased awareness in the benefits of organic food of all types, and in part due to the spiralling cost of eggs and groceries in general as a result of the pandemic.

While chickens can be surprisingly simple to care for once established, “keeping chickens” at home is entirely different from feeding feral chickens when you visit the park, (a practice which although well-intentioned, you must not engage in because it just compounds an ongoing problem by encouraging our enormous feral population to continue breeding).

What is the correct way to care for chickens at home?

It is important to understand that domesticated (or farmyard birds) are a lifelong responsibility just like cats and dogs, and it is actually illegal to allow them wander away from your property or release them into a park or golf course if you lose interest or are no longer able to care for them.

That said, done correctly, keeping chickens can be a highly enjoyable activity that the whole family can assist with – in addition to being a continuous source of nutritious organic eggs.

I reached out to Shannon DeCosta who operates Little Cluckers Farm and the Bermuda Facebook Group “Just Chickens” (a page full of advice for anyone considering raising chickens).

Ms. DeCosta first began raising chickens when her young daughter Selena arrived home one day with six baby chicks that she had scooped up on the side of the road. Realizing that she could not simply turn them loose again because they had been separated from their mother, she adopted them as pets.

HOUSING & SHELTER

Chickens can only regulate their body temperature through their feet so in Bermuda’s hot climate it’s important to provide them with a shaded, ventilated, fully fenced environment which gives them space to roam about and also provides adequate protection from predators and extreme weather.

“This can be as simple as a DIY wire enclosure with a wooden nesting box and a couple of tree branches for roosts, or a fancy purpose-built chicken coop,” says Ms. DeCosta. “When Selena’s chicks were very small, we initially kept them in a plastic tub in the house, and as they grew, we put them in larger and larger containers until they were big enough to be transferred outside.”

ROOSTING, BROODING & EGG PRODUCTION

Interestingly chickens cannot see in the dark so they will naturally put themselves to bed at sunset and sleep continuously until sunrise. But even in a fully enclosed area, they need an elevated place to sleep so that they can feel safe from predators.

Once domesticated, all hens will lay eggs on a regular basis although the quantity of eggs does vary from breed to breed. A Rhode Island Red hen, for example, will typically lay an egg every day, while other breeds usually lay about four eggs a week.

A chicken who feels a strong urge to hatch eggs is referred to as being “broody”. When a chicken is feeling broody, she will stop laying eggs and sit in her nesting box all day every day for about 21 days – only emerging for 20-30 minutes once a day in order to eat and drink.

If she is allowed to sit on eggs during this time, these eggs will eventually hatch and on average the mother hen will care for the chicks for 4-8 weeks until they are old enough to fend for themselves.

FOOD AND WATER

Chickens are omnivores and will eat just about anything. Ms. DeCosta recommends a mixture of feed from Noah’s Ark (which stocks just about everything that your chickens could ever need) as well as food scraps such as apples, lettuce, watermelon rind and corn on the cob. They are also natural foragers and will often scratch and peck at the ground to supplement their diet with insects, worms, and small plants.

“It is also important to provide your chickens with plenty of fresh water every day,” says Ms. DeCosta, “Both because they drink quite a bit in Bermuda’s heat, but also because they often like to stand in their water bowls to cool themselves down”.

WASTE MANAGEMENT

As you might imagine, properly managing chicken waste is important to prevent odour and potential health issues. Make sure that you layer the bottom of their containment area with sawdust or wood shavings and change it on a regular basis to prevent the spread of disease.

“Learning about composting chicken manure is a great way to cut down on waste and has the added benefit of creating nutrient-rich organic fertilizer for your garden”, says Ms. DeCosta.

Do feral chickens make good domestic pets?

To some extent this might depend on who you ask. In Ms. DeCosta’s case the feral chicks that she and Selena adopted off the side of the road not only provided great entertainment, but they also grew up to be better egg producers than many of the domestic breeds she later paid for.

“Just be sure that you are properly prepared to give them a ‘forever home’ before taking them in,” she cautioned.

Keeping chickens can be an educational and enjoyable hobby for the whole family which provides fresh eggs and increases food security. For Ms. DeCosta her interest in egg production has even grown into a small business and she currently supplies eggs to The Tuck Shop on Middle Road Southampton.

The post Keeping Chickens in Bermuda appeared first on RG Magazines.

When the first settlers arrived in Bermuda in 1612, they constructed half-timbered “Cabbens” of a familiar size and shape to those that they would have occupied in the UK. Utilizing raw materials that were readily available, these simple dwellings featured wooden frames fitted with cedar lathes filled with a mixture of clay, sticks, sand, lime, and turtle oil and the roofs were frequently thatched with palmetto leaves.

As one might expect, these original structures did not stand up well in the island’s harsh weather conditions and were gradually replaced with far more durable limestone dwellings, many of which are still in use today.

MAINTENANCE CONSIDERATIONS

As durable as these historic limestone dwellings are, they do need regular maintenance in order to be kept in good condition, but their exteriors cannot simply be altered willy-nilly – Bermuda has Historic Listing regulations in place which dictate what can and cannot be altered.

Despite the fact that historic houses were often expanded on numerous occasions in the past and may well reflect a variety of architectural styles, you can’t just add on an addition or make alterations to the exterior this way today.

“Historic properties have either a grade one, grade two or grade three listing classification,” explains Michele Smith Managing Partner at OMBI. “If you own a listed property, the best advice is to do your research to thoroughly understand how your property is classified and what exterior changes are allowed and what approvals you might need to obtain from the Historical Board before making any updates.”

“You cannot simply replace a damaged limestone roof on a listed building with SKB, or rotten wooden windows with double glazed aluminium,” she cautioned.

“Never simply assume that you can make changes to the appearance of the exterior simply because something is worn out. In some cases, you even need permission to alter the style of the shutters,” she said.

This is not the case, however, when it comes to maintaining the interior of a historic property.

“Normal updates to things like the kitchens, bathrooms, wiring and plumbing are not restricted,” said Ms. Smith. “Of course, you will need planning permission for these improvements just as you would with any modern Bermuda dwelling”.

HISTORICAL CONSIDERATIONS

It is important to understand that maintaining a historic home is a labour of love.

If you have recently purchased or inherited a historic property, it is well worth doing a little digging to see what you can learn about the history of the house or its occupants. Discovering, for instance, that your dwelling was once a stable or a shop, can help guide your decisions on what to preserve to maintain the unique character and cultural significance of a property when incorporating modern amenities.

ARCHITECTURAL STYLE CONSIDERATIONS

If your budget permits, you can begin by consulting with an architect who specializes in historic preservation to ensure that any modifications are in harmony with the original design, or you can work directly with a contractor who is sympathetic to the nuances of historic architectural features and employs masons who are skilled in vintage construction techniques and finishes.

“Done correctly, an approved addition to a historic property can be blended in so seamlessly with the original features that it is impossible to tell that it is not part of the original floorplan,” Ms. Smith explains.

HISTORIC MATERIALS

It goes without saying that when you are making repairs to a historic property you must try to use traditional and locally sourced materials to maintain authenticity as much as possible. However, Bermuda cedar, limestone block and slate roofing tiles are in increasingly short supply and are also expensive materials.

“Unless you have an unlimited budget, the best thing to do is prioritize what really needs to be done immediately in order to make the house habitable and structurally sound, and what can be done over time as funds permit,” advises Ms. Smith.

ORIGINAL FEATURES

Bermuda’s distinctive architectural style includes many original features that should be preserved because they contribute to the house’s charm including cedar beams, chimneys, shutters, butteries, moon gates, and cedar gates.

However, there may also be features that are not immediately apparent that need to be updated for reasons of safety or to comply with modern building codes.

“Sometimes we open the walls or the ceiling of an old house and discover that a home was constructed directly on bedrock without a foundation, or that the cedar beams supporting the roof are riddled with dry rot or termite infestation,” Ms. Smith explained. “In these instances, repairs will have to be made”.

“Another thing we often find in old homes is that the roof was often placed directly on top of the window frames without a supporting lintel which can lead to structural problems over time,” she said.

There are also cases where the original cesspit was a single chamber, and the building code now requires that the cesspit contain two chambers to separate black and grey water for health reasons.

A thorough home inspection is a good way to understand what you are getting into before you purchase a historic property or contemplate making updates to your existing dwelling.

INTRODUCING MODERN AMENITIES

When integrating modern amenities that enhance the comfort and functionality of the interior of the house, it is often advisable to preserve early floor plans as much as possible.

For example, early homes were often oriented on the building site so that the prevailing breezes would blow from the front door straight through the house to help keep it cool, and the porch was usually placed on the most shaded side of the structure (even when this was not the side of the house with the most advantageous view).

While it is quite possible that you could gain planning approval for an alteration to the interior which increases the modern functionality of your property, the question to ask yourself when you are updating a historic home is whether you will be happy with the end result if it cuts off the airflow flow or fails to carry the original features of the home into a new wing?

In short, you need to consider the function of historic features of the house as well as visual appeal before embarking on any upgrades.

GARDEN RESTORATION

Restoring and maintaining a garden that blends harmoniously with the age of the house is another great way to add curb appeal and enhance the authenticity of the property.

Early Bermuda gardens were essential to maintain food security and often featured a mixture of palmettos, sheltered citrus groves, and practical kitchen garden plants that came into season throughout the year.

Planting cedar trees is also an easy way to add an air of authenticity to the landscape that will be appreciated for years to come.

For further information consult: The Traditional Building Guide: Advice for Preserving Bermuda’s Architectural Heritage 2002

The post Home improvement Considerations appeared first on RG Magazines.

As a retired ‘big city’ lawyer my frugal grandfather sported a paisley ascot and shiny black dress shoes with well-worn dress pants every day and saw little reason to purchase new clothes, reasoning that if this attire was good enough for the courtroom, surely his herd of twenty cattle wouldn’t mind.

With a clean shave and Aqua Velva rounding out his farmhouse ensemble I wouldn’t call his look ‘typical’, but I would say that he had much in common with many other older men in that he maintained the ‘go with what you know’ approach to wardrobe and style in later life.

For men ‘of a certain age’, keeping up appearances by updating their wardrobe and personal style is not just a mood elevator, it can bolster confidence and actually make you look like you’ve lost a pound or two without even working up a sweat.

While there is certainly nothing wrong with sticking to your comfort zone, on a daily basis, the following guide might be just the thing to consult if you have a hankering to change things up a bit or even just tuck away in the sock drawer for future reference:

FIT IS VITAL

The brutal truth is baggy or oversized outfits can make you appear older. Instead, opt for well-tailored garments that flatter your body shape. “Despite the fact that many older men feel self-conscious wearing slim-fitting trousers, they can actually make you look slimmer,” advised Sharon Bartram, owner of 27th Century Boutique on Reid Street.

Before you head out (or are dragged out) to go shopping, take a good look at what you already have in your closet and then try to purchase an item that will co-ordinate with or extend their use.

“Particularly if you have an event to go to and you need to work within a budget, I ask men to think about what dress pants they already own and then help them pick out a new dress shirt to go with them,” Ms Bartram explained.

If possible, it is best to keep your eye out for a few timeless pieces that will never go out of style and then try to purchase them on sale when there is not an urgent use for them – that way you can choose things you actually like without overspending.

Items like a well-fitted blazer, tailored trousers, a quality pair of jeans and a couple of dress shirts will serve as the foundation for any man’s wardrobe, and not leave you scrambling when that invite to your granddaughter’s graduation comes along.

ACCESSORIZE STRATEGICALLY

Even though chunky gold chains and ID tags might have been ‘de rigueur’ in your disco dancing days, they are perhaps less essential in this modern era. But, a stylish watch might be worth the investment. As is the case with a classic leather wallet, belt, cotton pocket square, or sun-protecting hat, all of which can be found at Flatts Menswear.

Originally purchased in 1979 by her beloved father Mickey Adderley, daughter Jennifer Lindo is continuing the family tradition of outfitting the island’s men with quality clothes for work or recreation. “At the moment we are the only supplier of Big and Tall items in Bermuda,” said Ms Lindo, “and we also stock a great range of sportswear and work clothes”.

KEEP AN OPEN MIND

When it comes to updating your wardrobe both women agree that styles do change and it’s important to keep an open mind when you head out shopping. “A lot of men are used to wearing the same thing for a long time and they come in looking to replace an item with something that is exactly identical,” explained Ms Lindo. “That can be a little challenging when the item is 20 years old, and the original supplier has gone out of business!”

TRY BEFORE YOU BUY

Older men also tend to prefer not to try things on in the store because they just want to get their errand over with as quickly as possible, but that frequently just wastes time in the long run said Ms Lindo. “It’s very important to try things on before making a purchase to ensure you are actually buying the correct size.” Whenever possible it is also best to come to the shop in person instead of sending someone else to choose for you.

“Not only do older men tend to wear a different size than they once did, but the way clothes are sized and labeled has also changed,” said Ms Bartram. “I can’t tell you how often people wind up having to make a second trip to the store to exchange sizes because they insisted on purchasing the size they used to wear years ago.”

A FEW SIMPLE SKIN STEPS

When it comes to skin care however, older men tend to fall into one of two categories – those who get that it is important and those who don’t. Nevertheless, taking care of your skin becomes increasingly important as you age.

Andrea Fubler, owner of Salt + Cedar on Front Street, which carries a whole range of products specially formulated for men recommends the following simple steps:

Consistency is key when it comes to daily skincare – developing a daily routine and sticking to it will achieve the best results.

Recognise that men’s skin tends to be thicker and oilier than women’s skin, and products specifically formulated for a man will work better.

If you are only going to do one thing, make sure you wear sunscreen whenever you go out. It is essential to protect against UV rays and slow aging from sun damage.

Applying moisturiser to your face at night is another easy step as it will soak in properly while you sleep.

Using an all-over body wash formulated for hair, face and body is a great way to treat yourself and still keep things simple.

Even making sure that you are staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water can improve the appearance of your skin.

The post Good Fit Makes it Fabulous appeared first on RG Magazines.