Local News
Xmas in July 2023 Event Organizers Donate $6,000 to Beyond the Reef
Wally Castro Marine, the organizers of the Xmas in July 2023 event, have made a generous donation of $6,000 to Beyond the Reef, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to marine environmental education and preservation. The donation was made possible through the sale of official reusable tumblers, which were part of the event’s environmental protection initiatives.
Wally Castro, owner of Wally Castro Marine and the main organizer of the event, emphasized the importance of raising awareness about beach and ocean conservation. “This initiative reflects our desire to create awareness on the importance of protecting our beaches and to send the message that our event takes beach and ocean conservation very seriously,” he stated. “With this donation, we support a local organization that reflects our environmental protection beliefs.”
During the Xmas in July event, members of Beyond the Reef were present to sell the official merchandise. Representatives from local nonprofit organizations, including the Virgin Gorda Rotary Club and Valley Sound Lions Club, also participated in the event by preparing local dishes to raise funds for their respective organizations.
Kendyl Berna, founder of Beyond the Reef, expressed gratitude for the donation, stating that it will help their organization continue to raise awareness about marine environment protection in the British Virgin Islands. “Our oceans are a precious resource, but they are also very fragile. Those who enjoy the beach and sea must do so responsibly,” Berna emphasized. She also commended the event organizers for their environmental care initiatives and encouraged them to continue implementing such efforts in the future.
The Xmas in July event, held on July 22, 2023, was a resounding success, attracting over 5,500 people and 400 vessels to Pond Bay Beach in Virgin Gorda. This edition of the event broke attendance records, making it the most successful in its history. Attendees from Puerto Rico, the British Virgin Islands, and other countries came together to celebrate this traditional summer event.
The event was organized by Wally Castro Marine, Marcos Rivera, and the British Virgin Islands Tourist Board & Film Commission. Wally Castro Marine, based in Fajardo, Puerto Rico, is a leading boat dealer representing renowned brands such as Riviera Yachts, Boston Whaler, Bertram, Regulator, Belize, Nor-Tech, and Azimut Yachts.
Xmas in July 2023 official Tumbler photos by Mar Javierto
Young people using the official tumbler photos by Mar Javierto
Seven young boys from the British Virgin Islands are set to experience basketball at its finest as they head to Orlando, Florida From November 23 to 28. The ballerswill participate in the Jr. Orlando Magic Youth Basketball Camp, an opportunity that combines skill development, fun, and a front-row seat to the NBA world.
The trip is organised through Sports Vision Academy, led by Mr. Eustace “Boss” Freeman. The young athletes—Niquan Freeman, Kyle Gumbs Jr., Jahy Smith, Ke’mori Daway, Tiondre Martin, Jaiden Cameron, and Jadey Glasgow—will be accompanied by Freeman himself, alongside Jovaughn Cameron and Roy Garraway.
“It’s the first time attending this camp, and the boys will also get the opportunity to attend an NBA game as well,” Freeman shared enthusiastically. “They will witness the Bulls take on the Magic, which is bound to be an unforgettable experience.”
The camp promises not only to refine their basketball skills but also to expose them to professional-level gameplay and sportsmanship.
Freeman expressed deep gratitude to the sponsors who made the trip possible, including the BVI Olympic Committee, Travel Wize LTD, and HNF. “Today’s youth are tomorrow’s stars,” Freeman said, reflecting on the impact this trip could have on the boys’ futures.
For these young ballers, this is more than a camp—it’s a chance to dream big and see where their talent can take them.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has made a major breakthrough in addressing a string of burglaries that had left communities across the Territory on edge. A 17-year-old male from Jost Van Dyke has been arrested and charged in connection with multiple burglaries in Butu Mountain, East End, Great Mountain, and Mount Healthy.
The young suspect faces four counts of burglary and one charge of criminal damage, marking a significant development in the RVIPF’s efforts to combat crime in the region.
“This arrest demonstrates our commitment to addressing the concerns of our residents and ensuring that offenders are held accountable,” said Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool. She also called attention to the broader issue of youth involvement in criminal activities, emphasizing the need for community collaboration to tackle the problem. “It will take an all-hands-on-deck approach to solve this serious problem,” Vanterpool added.
While the arrest represents progress, police officials urge residents to remain vigilant. The RVIPF continues to seek information related to these burglaries and encourages the public to come forward with tips.
Anyone with relevant details can contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS) or 1-284-800-8477.
In an inspiring act of generosity, Russ Roschman, an avid animal lover, marked his birthday in an extraordinary way—by dedicating it to the furry residents of the BVI Humane Society. Instead of accepting gifts, Roschman launched a GoFundMe campaign that raised an impressive $2,500 for the shelter.
Roschman spent the day with the shelter’s animals, earning the gratitude of staff and the community alike. The funds raised will be directed toward the running costs of the current shelter, providing vital resources to care for the animals.
The BVI Humane Society, in a heartfelt post, expressed their appreciation, calling Roschman an “amazing animal lover” and extending a “big furball thanks” for his kindness.
This act of selflessness shines a light on the ongoing needs of shelters like the BVI Humane Society, which rely on donations and community support to provide essential care for animals in need. Roschman’s gesture is a reminder of the impact individuals can make, one paw at a time.
Seven Young Ballers Embark on an Eight-Day Basketball Adventure in Orlando
Teen Arrested in Connection With Series of Burglaries Across Virgin Islands
Animal Lover Celebrates Birthday by Raising $2,500 for BVI Humane Society
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