Great Britain are heading to their first Baseball European Championship final since 2007 after defeating Germany 8-4 in the semi-finals on Friday. BVIslanders Kennard Dawson (1 run & 2 hits), Rayondre Mercer (1 hit), Nateshon Thomas (1 run), and Shamoy Christopher contributed to the victory. Despite not playing in the semi-finals, local Demoi Hodge played … Continued
The sport of volleyball will be returning to schools across the territory as part of the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports (DYAS) After School Grassroots Sports Programme. The initiative is a joint partnership between DYAS and the Virgin Islands Volleyball Association. Minister for Education, Sports and Youth Affairs, Hon. Sharie De Castro, made the … Continued
The Governor’s Office has established a fund of $30,000 to support youth empowerment projects in the BVI and is inviting applications from organizations or partnerships across organizations for projects with a maximum value of $10,000. This grant program is open exclusively to registered or established BVI Non-Profit Organizations. Its primary objective is to financially support … Continued
Between 2017 and now, Premier Dr the Honourable Natalio Wheatley estimates that the Government of the Virgin Islands has paid $36 million in rent. According to Premier Wheatley, this money could have been used to build a second government complex. The Premier’s comments came in response to questions about what the government is doing to … Continued
Dominica has elected its first-ever woman head of state, a decision that has been both celebrated and contested. In a vote of 20 to 5, Dominican lawmakers elected 58-year-old Sylvanie Burton, the government’s nominee. Six government ministers and one opposition legislator were absent for various reasons. Burton faced a challenge from Anette Sanford, but ultimately … Continued
For over three decades, Lions Clubs around the globe have been sponsoring a very special art contest in schools and youth groups, the Lions International Peace Poster Contest. Today, Lions Club of Tortola is gearing up to launch the contest in our local BVI community. Creating peace posters gives children everywhere the chance to express … Continued
The H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) in collaboration with the Department of Culture welcomes the public to gather with prize winning authors and influential thinkers at the third instalment of the BVI Lit Fest from 2 – 5 November 2023 under the theme Tell Your Story. This three-day celebration is presented by premier sponsor … Continued
The BVI Football Association (BVIFA) is aiming to have over 500 students registered for this year’s BDO Schools Football League which is set to kick-off on Wednesday, October 11. League Coordinator Cassandra “Coach Cass” Gregg made the announcement at a press conference on Tuesday, September 26, which was held to officially launch the 2023-2024 BDO … Continued
The family of Miya Marcano, a 19-year-old student with ties to the USVI and BVI, who was discovered dead near her apartment in Orlando, Florida in 2021, has initiated a lawsuit against the Orange County Sheriff’s Office and two deputies. The family alleges negligence and civil rights violations in the handling of her case. According … Continued
One Love FC is the first team to make the inaugural Emmett Caines Knockout Cup final after securing a bye following their 5-0 victory against Positive FC in the semi-final. Among the scoresheet for One Love in the preseason competition were Jahari Lacey, Jhon Samuel, Shayne Prince, Alcise Savery and Brent Bowman. “We dominated most … Continued
Mrs. Helen Seymour has been appointed a member of the Public Service Commission (PSC), effective September 14. Mrs. Seymour took an Oath of Secrecy before His Excellency, the Governor Mr. John J. Rankin, CMG, confirming her appointment in accordance with Section 91 (1) (d) of the Virgin Islands Constitution Order, 2007. Mrs. Seymour who is … Continued
With the Caribbean classified as being one of the most vulnerable regions to climate change, Premier and Minister responsible for Climate Change, Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley has called for world leaders to recognise the phenomenon as an existential threat to the planet and to be proactive in its reversal. Premier Wheatley made the comment … Continued
The Civil Registry and Passport Office has announced that it has resumed issuing Belonger Cards to eligible individuals. The issuance of these cards had previously been disrupted due to a system-related issue. According to a press release from the office this week, this problem was diagnosed and subsequently resolved by the Department of Information Technology, … Continued
How much money is required to address the infrastructural and development needs of the British Virgin Islands? This question was posed to Premier Dr. The Honourable Natalio Wheatley during his recent appearance on the popular talk show “Talking Points.” With the loan guarantee no longer on the table, the government is currently exploring alternative options … Continued
An ongoing fire at the Bovoni Landfill on St. Thomas, United States Virgin Islands (USVI), has resulted in Governor Albert Bryan Jr. issuing an Executive Order declaring a State of Emergency throughout the neighbouring territory. According to information from the USVI’s Government House, the landfill has been on fire since September 14 and has resulted … Continued
In a recent document published by the White House entitled “Memorandum on Presidential Determination on Major Drug Transit or Major Illicit Drug Producing Countries for Fiscal Year 2024”, President Joe Biden named five Caribbean Countries among countries considered as major drug transit or major illicit drug producing countries. The countries named on the list are … Continued
A Caribbean island that has transformed from a barren moonscape to a lush wildlife sanctuary in just a few short years has been made one of the biggest protected areas in the Caribbean. The new designation is the result of the ongoing efforts of the government of Antigua and Barbuda, particular the Department of Environment … Continued
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Sub-Regional Coordinator is calling on governments across the region to increase resilience in their respective fisheries sector due to the advancing threat that global warming poses to the industry. Sub-Regional Coordinator, Dr. Renata Clarke, made the plea while addressing a four-day virtual scientific conference organised by the Caribbean Regional … Continued
After an impressive display at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest, Hungary, 17-year-old Adaejah Hodge has vowed to return much stronger and harder. Adaejah left it all on the track in the semi-finals of the Women’s 200-metre event where she finished 7th in heat 2 with a time of 22.96 seconds on Thursday. She was ranked … Continued
Adaejah Hodge gave it her all in the semi-finals of the Women’s 200-metre event at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest, Hungary on Thursday, but missed out on the final after finishing 7th. Sprinting out of lane 2, in heat 2, the 17-year-old Hodge managed a time of 22.96 seconds. Her race was won by … Continued
Haitian musician Wyclef Jean, is gearing up to host the inaugural Caribbean Music Awards. This celebration of Caribbean music is scheduled to take place on August 31 at the iconic Kings Theatre in Brooklyn. Jean’s enthusiasm for this event was palpable during a recent interview on NBC’s Today Show. Reflecting on the Verzuz episode that … Continued
The trio of Kennard Dawson, Demoi Hodge and Reyondre Mercer created history for the Great Britain Baseball Team and the British Virgin Islands, after finishing second in the 2023 Under 23 Baseball European Championship in Wiener Neustadt, Austria. Playing in the final on Saturday, August 12, Great Britain fell to the Netherlands 23-5 in the … Continued
With the Caribbean classified as being one of the most vulnerable regions to climate change, Premier and Minister responsible for Climate Change, Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley has called for world leaders to recognise the phenomenon as an existential threat to the planet and to be proactive in its reversal. Premier Wheatley made the comment … Continued
Cruise passenger arrivals for the upcoming 2023-2024 season are expected to reach record breaking numbers, with a projection of nearly 800,000 passengers likely to grace the territory. Minister responsible for the BVI Ports Authority, Hon. Kye Rymer, announced the projected figure during a recent session of the House of Assembly. He said the estimated total … Continued
The Ministry of Education is actively exploring the option of partnering with universities and educational institutions within the region to recruit competent and qualified teachers for the territory. Education Minister, Hon. Sharie De Castro made the announcement in the House of Assembly recently in response to questions posed by Deputy Speaker, Hon. Stacey Mather. De … Continued
Senior officials from the Overseas Territories (OTs) and the United Kingdom (UK) will be meeting in the BVI from September 12 to 14 to discuss Illicit Finance and ways to combat the global issue. Deputy Premier and Minister for Financial Services, Labour, and Trade, Honourable Lorna Smith, made the announcement during a recent sitting of … Continued
The British Virgin Islands team which recently secured a bronze medal at the Eastern Caribbean Volleyball (ECVA) U23 Women’s Championships in Dominica, was greeted with a celebratory ceremony at the Terrance B Lettsome International Airport on Tuesday following their arrival into the territory. The team defeated host Dominica in three straight sets to secure bronze … Continued
The British Virgin Islands secured a bronze medal at the Eastern Caribbean Volleyball (ECVA) U23 Women Championships on Sunday, after sweeping host Dominica in three straight sets. Playing in Roseau, Dominica in Group B, the BVI women won 25-14, 25-21, 25-21 for a 3 set, clean sweep. Also competing in Group B alongside the VI … Continued
The Emmett Caines Knockout Cup commenced on Saturday, September 16, with stiff competition in the opening games of the tournament which were decided by penalty shoot-outs. In the first game of the day, Old Madrid held Lion Heart to a 1-1 draw during regulation time, and then came out 3-2 victors, in the penalty shoot-out. … Continued
Olympian and two-time Commonwealth Games champion Kyron McMaster has been rated as the British Virgin Islands’ greatest athlete of all time. In addition to the aforementioned accolades, McMaster is a two-time North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletic Association (NACAC) champion; a Central American and Caribbean Games (CAC) champion; a gold medalist in multiple Diamond League … Continued
Riddim Up Bartending School has just completed another highly successful course with eight students graduating after successful completing requirements. The cohort of graduates who are now certified bartenders are: Frances de Castro, Diondra Hodge, Jubal Jones, Jieunick Mingo, Janeive Green Dandy, Natoya Green, Garth Dandy, and Darren Henry. The course has been designed to … Continued
The British Virgin Islands Tourist Board & Film Commission (BVITBFC) is making a powerful impact at the Virtuoso Travel Week, taking place from 12 – 18 August 2023 in the vibrant city of Las Vegas, Nevada. Building upon the success of last year’s participation, the BVITBFC delegation is strengthening relationships with travel advisors while providing … Continued
On Tuesday, 25 July, 2023, over 40 Auto Mechanics from within the Territory took part in a NAPA Automotive Electrical A to CAN Training, fully powered by VI Motors. The highly-anticipated 3-hour training was held at Maria’s by the Sea with NAPA Auto Tech Instructor, Mr. Randy Cowan, via an online communications platform. Mr. Juan … Continued
The British Virgin Islands Film Commission, hosted a media familirisation breakfast bringing together industry professionals for the purpose of networking. Also known as a “fam” event within the tourism industry, the event attracted 25 local media professionals. The networking event comprised of videography, photography, animation, sound, writing and directing professionals. The day’s event consisted of … Continued
The Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbour say they are thrilled to announce its official New Year’s Eve event. On December 31st, 2023, the grounds of VGYH will be transformed into a premier event space bringing the best of the BVI to Spanish Town, Virgin Gorda. The event will feature a wide selection of entertainment, a vibrant … Continued
Haitian musician Wyclef Jean, is gearing up to host the inaugural Caribbean Music Awards. This celebration of Caribbean music is scheduled to take place on August 31 at the iconic Kings Theatre in Brooklyn. Jean’s enthusiasm for this event was palpable during a recent interview on NBC’s Today Show. Reflecting on the Verzuz episode that … Continued
Raul “Jougo” Sprauve is the 2023 BVI Road March winner. The Virgin Islands Festival and Fairs Committee confirmed the news in a release on Friday as they announced the winners of the various categories from this year’s August Monday Parade. Jougo took the road march with his hit song “Lean”, taking his overall tally of … Continued
The Parade Sub-committee of the Virgin Islands Festival and Fairs Committee has registered 1,000 revellers spread across 25 entries for the August Monday Parade. The parade which will begin promptly at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, August 7 will see dazzling entries ranging from the troupes, floats, floupes, sporting cars and individual entries. The thousand-reveller parade … Continued
The following is commentary by Mr. Benito Wheatley The people of the British Virgin Islands have traditionally celebrated Emancipation and the basic freedoms we enjoy today at the annual Emancipation Festival/August Festival that takes place between late July and early August. But because we are so far removed from slavery, members of the public may … Continued
The following is commentary by Shaina M. Smith-Archer. I heard about the call for comments in the news on increasing the minimum wage, and there is so much here I don’t know which corner to start at. I think we should first complete the population census to understand what is really going on in our … Continued
In part 1 of this commentary, I started sharing my thoughts on the Constitutional Review and why this exercise is laying the foundation for the best days of these Islands we call home. The more research I conduct on this topic I realise more that the system we have is not truly a democratic system … Continued
The following is commentary by Shaina Smith-Archer. I am glad to be alive for such a time as this. When I read about our national heroes like Hope Stevens and Howard. R. Penn and how they wrote our future in their “day,” we are currently writing the Virgin Islands’ future for the next 50 years. … Continued
A total of twenty charges were laid before the Magistrate’s Court on Monday, September 25, against Nyron Erickson of West End, Tortola, jointly charging the 31-year-old with criminal offences stemming from a major drug and firearms bust in 2021. Erickson appeared before Senior Magistrate Tamia Richards virtually, where he was jointly charged with Jose Almestica, Jennifer … Continued
Three unidentified males evaded police presence on Thursday night in the East End area of Tortola but left behind a bag containing three illegal firearms which were recovered by the law enforcement officers. The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) confirmed the incident in a media statement, stating that the incident occurred while conducting routine … Continued
The three males arrested in relation to Wednesday’s ammunition seizure have been revealed. They are Cordell O’Neal, 38-year-old of Fresh Water Pond; Kanmi O’Neal, 34-year-old of Pockwood Pond; and Jelani Christopher, 31-year-old, of Cane Garden Bay, who are all jointly charged with Unlawful Possession of Explosives. The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) confirmed the … Continued
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has charged Nyron Erickson with 21 offences. The criminal offences include seven counts of Possession of a Prohibited Weapon, eleven counts of Keeping a Firearm Without a License, two counts of Possession of a Controlled Drug with Intent to Supply Another, and one count of Possession of the … Continued
The Parade Sub-committee of the Virgin Islands Festival and Fairs Committee has registered 1,000 revellers spread across 25 entries for the August Monday Parade. The parade which will begin promptly at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, August 7 will see dazzling entries ranging from the troupes, floats, floupes, sporting cars and individual entries. The thousand-reveller parade … Continued
The BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) is taking the lead in helping our community stay cool, hydrated, and healthy as the Virgin Islands and the Caribbean region continues to experience a blistering heatwave. As the leading healthcare provider in the Territory, the BVIHSA is not just offering advice, the organization is also offering an action … Continued
Premier and Minister of Finance Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley will join leaders from across the Caribbean Overseas Territories (OT) for a caucus of Caribbean OT leaders on Saturday, July 29 in Miami. The objective of this official attendance is to continue to promote the overall socio-economic and political interests of the Virgin Islands through … Continued
Officers from the Department of Disaster Management (DDM) were joined by colleagues in the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries to carry out sampling and analysis on Virgin Gorda and Jost Van Dyke as part of the ongoing Virgin Islands Comprehensive Soils Study. The team collected soil samples and tested the water permeability at three locations … Continued
