Entertainment
When Storm Winds Blow – A Children’s Hurricane Survival Book by Rick Grant Is On The Market
Six years after hurricanes Irma and Maria, there’s a children’s book on the market – When Storm Winds Blow by Rick Grant – filled with details on how to survive a hurricane.
He calls his 4th novel a labour of love, written from notes scribbled in Septmeber 2017 during two of the most devastating storms to hit the Virgin Islands.
Grant, a native of St Kitts who grew up in the British Virgin Islands and a long-time resident of the United States Virgin Islands, reflected in a short online post about the genesis of the book.
“Just two weeks prior, I moved from St. Thomas to St. Croix and now I was preparing for a Hurricane. While preparing, washing up some dishes to be exact, the title “When Storm Winds Blow” came to mind. I stopped one time, from preparing for the pending storm and wrote down all the things I was doing to prepare. Within a few hours the storm hit. I was alone in my apartment and instead of being anxious, I continued to document what was happening. That night, I completed the manuscript.”
He added: “This book shares, in a gentle language, what it is like to live through a hurricane from a child’s point of view, and how to handle the experience. The book is filled with advice and ideas that readers of all ages will enjoy. It features a hurricane tracking map, a preparedness checklist and comprehension questions to test the learner’s understanding of the reading. The vivid illustrations bring the words to life and the book reflects traditional and easily identifiable Caribbean heritage and scenery.”
Grant is a also a mentor and motivational speaker, who proudly states on his Facebook page that “St Kitts created, Tortola raised me, the VI moulded me.”
He describes his latest work as “ideal for family time and for the classroom.”
Vybz Kartel’s highly anticipated return to the stage after his release from prison was met with global excitement, both from his loyal fans online and those attending the historic Freedom Street Concert in Kingston, Jamaica.
The Grammy-nominated artist, who spent 13 years in prison on a murder charge that was overturned in March 2024, took to the stage in front of more than 30,000 fans just after 11 p.m. on New Year’s Eve at the National Stadium, with an additional 150,000 tuning in online.
He performed a mix of classic hits and fresh material that energised the fans, who were thrilled to see the “World Boss” enjoying his historic return with support from a star-studded cast, including Popcaan, Bounty, Spice, Shawn Storm, Lisa Hype, Gaza Indu, and American rapper Busta Rhymes.
While many celebrated his long-awaited comeback, others were left wanting more, with some missing the high-energy performance and signature vocal delivery that made him popular early in his career.
But Kartel, who is living with Graves’ disease and a heart condition, proved his popularity is still intact when thousands of viewers watching the free live stream were unable to access a steady feed due to the overwhelming online traffic.
Economically, the event proved to be a significant boon for the local community, with estimates suggesting it generated over US$10 million.
The surrounding area saw a temporary surge in employment, and local businesses benefited from an increased demand for hotels, restaurants, and transportation services.
Looking ahead, the Jamaican artist’s international comeback continues with a show in the British Virgin Islands on March 15 in front of an audience that is expected to include guests from neighbouring territories, such as the United States Virgin Islands and St Maarten.
The Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) brought smiles to the faces of over 100 children in the British Virgin Islands with a generous donation of Christmas gifts. The initiative, held on December 16, was a collaborative effort between the FCCA, the Government of the Virgin Islands, and the Youth Empowerment Project (YEP).
The festivities took place at YEP Headquarters in East End, where children were treated to a festive celebration. Staff from the MSC Virtuosa Cruise Ship donned Santa Claus and other character costumes, adding to the magic of the occasion. The event also received sponsorship from Diamond International.
Premier and Minister of Finance Hon. Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley expressed his gratitude for the FCCA’s ongoing commitment to the Virgin Islands community. “The leadership of the FCCA is a thoughtful group of individuals. For more than two decades, their gift-giving has brought smiles and filled hearts with joy and hope during this special time of year,” said Premier Wheatley. “On behalf of the Government of the Virgin Islands, I extend our sincere thanks to the FCCA and their co-sponsors for their generosity.”
Minister for Ports Hon. Kye M. Rymer highlighted the FCCA’s enduring partnership with the territory. “Their commitment to gift-giving for over 20 years deserves our acknowledgment,” said Rymer. He also commended the BVI Ports Authority for its collaboration with the FCCA in supporting such initiatives.
Director of YEP Hon. Stacy Mather shared his appreciation for the FCCA’s efforts. “This marks our second time receiving gifts from this initiative. We are incredibly fortunate and grateful for this generosity,” he said. “Thanks to the kindness of FCCA, Diamond International, and others, our Christmas celebrations begin a little earlier.”
The event was moderated by Deputy Secretary in the Ministry of Communications and Works, Ms. Haley Trott, and attended by Junior Minister for Tourism Hon. Luce Hodge-Smith, Deputy Director of YEP Ms. Bianca Dougan, and other community leaders.
Long Bay Beach Resort on Tortola has elevated its dining scene with the opening of the 1748 Sushi Bar, a sophisticated addition that brings the essence of Japanese cuisine to the Caribbean shores. This new venture, led by Sous Chef Sherman, promises a dynamic fusion of traditional flavors and contemporary flair. With sushi, sashimi, and innovative maki rolls crafted from the freshest ingredients, Chef Sherman’s creations reflect a dedication to authenticity and artistic presentation.
To complement the culinary offerings, Head Mixologist Ashish has curated a signature cocktail menu inspired by Japanese culture. His creations, featuring touches like miso and yuzu, are carefully crafted to harmonize with the sushi bar’s dishes, offering a taste of Japan’s rich traditions infused with a Caribbean twist. “Our cocktails are designed to enhance each guest’s experience, blending Japanese and local flavors for a unique experience,” Ashish shares.
With its serene oceanfront setting and ambiance steeped in elegance, the 1748 Sushi Bar invites diners to enjoy a taste of Japan against the stunning backdrop of Tortola’s Long Bay. Reservations can be made at +1 (284) 345-3773 for those eager to experience this remarkable culinary addition in the British Virgin Islands.
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