On the Foodie Trail Up West What Works Best For Retired MPs

On the Bermuda Real Foodie Trail last week, we just happened to bump into this group of retired MPs, who collectively carry hundreds of years of experience in Bermuda’s political arena.

Former Progressive Labour Party MPs Ottiwell Simmons, Walter Roberts, Cal Smith and former Speaker of the House Stanley Lowe, make it a point to hook up weekly for luncheon socials.

These photos were taken up at Woody’s Restaurant, their favourite up west and down at the east end, according to Mr Simmons, their favourite is Nea’s.

Mr Simmons, a former President of the Bermuda Industrial Union, retired at the age of 62.

When asked by Bermuda Real this morning how old is he now, Mr Simmons replied: “I think I’m 84.”

He said the group started out many years ago with two others – Earl Darrell and Calvin Ming Sr.

“We go out every week on Wednesdays for the fellowship of retired parliamentarians,” said Mr Simmons.

“We do it to keep in touch with each other to try to ensure that we are comfortable out in social settings with people.

“We talk about politics but it’s not a political forum,” he added.

“Occasionally we have opinions on how the younger MPs are doing, and I think they’re doing great I really do.

“Bermuda is well represented with the PLP Government.”

Asked if he misses being in the political arena he said: “No!

“I did the best I could , I did my share and I’m quite happy with the small contributions I was able to make.”

But he said: “You couldn’t pay me to go back in politics!

“Public life is not under a shady tree. It’s out in the ditches and burning hot sun, where you make some gains and you take lots of criticism that you think you don’t deserve.”

And these days, it’s pretty clear that this group deserves a weekly get together, for good company, fellowship and Good Food!

ENJOY!