Local News
BVI records 38 top three finishes in USVI Swim Meets
Twelve junior British Virgin Islands swimmers recorded a total of 38 top three finishes in two Swim Meets in St Thomas, United States Virgin Islands in February and March.
The group of swimmers between the ages of 6 and 15 received their medals from Minister of Education and Sports Sharie DeCastro on March 22 at Tola Brewery Company in Road Town, Tortola.
They represented six schools from across the territory.
In a statement from the BVI Swim School, Philippa Exton congratulated the swimmers and thanked everyone who supported the team on their journey.
“Thank you to everyone who helped make this happen and to those who came out to support the swimmers. Thank you to Minister of Education and Sports Honourable Ms. Sharie DeCastro for presenting the medals to the swimmers.
These swimmers, representing 6 different schools in the BVI, have become quite the team. Finding a support system and friendship through their swimming. They always cheer each other on and help one another with skills and strokes.”
She added that the youngsters, who regularly train in the ocean, have shown significant improvement in the water.
“We are so proud of each and every swimmer for their improvement and dedication to their swimming. This is continuously showing at meets with dropped times, improved strokes, longer distances, legal turns and starting from the blocks. These swimmers have overcome so much and are mainly training in the ocean at beaches. This is not always the easiest task as they swim in larger waves, avoid seaweed and learn to sight buoys.
Hexton also thanked the St Thomas Swimming Association for their support.
The rhythmic sounds of steel pan music, the enticing aroma of roast pig, and the smooth taste of Caribbean rum will set the scene for an unforgettable experience this Saturday, February 1, as Paradise Club hosts its Food & Rum Festival at Cane Garden Bay.
This one-of-a-kind event promises nonstop entertainment and a cultural explosion of flavors from across the Caribbean. Patrons can look forward to a feast featuring local delicacies such as pot bread, roast plantain, salt fish, jerk, curry, BBQ, fish soup, and more. The festival is a celebration of island heritage, bringing together a mix of music, food, and the Caribbean’s finest rums.
With an impressive lineup of spirits on display, attendees will have the opportunity to sip on some of the region’s top rums, including BVI Vodka, Arundel Cane Rum, Don Q, Bacardi White Rum, BVI Gin, and Cruzan Rum. Whether guests are rum connoisseurs or first-time tasters, they can enjoy free samples and explore the distinct flavors that make each brand unique.
The festival is set to deliver an electrifying atmosphere, headlined by the CP-4 Entertainment Band, along with DJ performances and steel pan music that will keep the energy high throughout the day.
The event aims to showcase the best of BVI’s culinary and entertainment scene while offering visitors and residents alike a chance to revel in island culture.
The Government of the Virgin Islands has launched a new public awareness campaign, “Business Done RIGHT”, to promote financial integrity and ensure that businesses across the territory remain free from financial crime. The initiative, introduced on 31st January 2025, aims to educate the public on recognising and reporting suspicious activities while reinforcing the BVI’s commitment to upholding international financial standards.
At the heart of the campaign is Riley Right, the newly introduced official mascot, who will appear across various platforms to help the community identify the warning signs of money laundering and other illicit activities. The initiative is designed to simplify complex financial crime concepts, making them more accessible and ensuring that both businesses and individuals understand their role in protecting the territory’s economy.
The campaign focuses on raising awareness of how financial crimes such as money laundering and terrorist financing affect businesses and the wider community. It highlights the importance of recognising suspicious transactions, complying with Know Your Customer requirements, and understanding why reporting financial crime is essential for maintaining a secure and reputable financial system. Through clear messaging and real-life examples, the initiative encourages vigilance and openness, urging residents and business owners to take action when they notice irregularities.
The initiative is led by the National Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Coordinating Council (NAMLCC), which is responsible for overseeing the BVI’s efforts to combat financial crime. By encouraging greater awareness and responsibility, the Government aims to strengthen the territory’s reputation as a leading financial jurisdiction while fostering a culture of transparency and ethical business practices.
The legacy of the late educator and creative writer Ruby Smith-Newberry will be celebrated on Sunday, 23rd February, at 3:30 p.m. at the C.B. Romney Tortola Pier Park lawn.
The event will mark the official launch of Ruby’s Writings, a collection of poetry, drama, and short stories by Smith-Newberry, and will feature a programme of performances and tributes from those inspired by her work.
Smith-Newberry, remembered for her contributions to education, the performing arts, and literature in the BVI, left a lasting impact on generations of students and artists. In recognition of her influence, the event will showcase performances by some of her protégés, alongside noted local and international artists.
The programme will feature performances by vocalist Ashaala Shanae, singer Donna Clyne, and a roster of artists including Gia Fraser, Kendra Penn, Kyle Moses, Sylvanna Charles & her dancers, Thea Cooke & company, Kay-Linda Richardson, Toyer Fahie, and Elmore Stoutt. Readings from Ruby’s Writings will be presented by esteemed author and personal friend, Dr. Pat Turnbull.
The event will also include testimonials from individuals whose lives were shaped by Smith-Newberry’s mentorship and dedication to education and the arts.
In addition to honouring Smith-Newberry’s literary contributions, the event will introduce The Rubystone Foundation BVI, a non-profit organisation dedicated to philanthropy, youth empowerment, and the promotion of inclusivity and the creative and performing arts.
The celebration is open to the public, and attendees are encouraged to bring family and friends to commemorate Smith-Newberry’s enduring influence on the BVI’s cultural landscape.
For more information, contact Dr. Arlene Smith-Thompson at 284-346-9777.
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