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Julian Willock and Kishma P. Forbes Donate to Ebenezer Thomas Primary School in Sea Cows Bay

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From left: Kishma P. Forbes, Julian Willock, Principal Ashkisha N. Maduro, Ms Rhondella Guishard, Sandra L. Grisham, and Leroy James Jr at the presentation at Ebenezer Thomas Primary School on Monday, September 18, 2023. Photo: Provided

Former Speaker of the House of Assembly, Julian Willock, and Kishma P. Forbes from the Virgin Islands School and Office Supplies have come together to make a significant contribution to the Ebenezer Thomas Primary School in Sea Cows Bay.

The donation, valued at over $1000, includes a range of items that will greatly benefit the school and its students.

Among the items donated are power fans, a glue gun with glue sticks, a laminating machine, and a variety of snacks.

Recognizing the limitations of the government, Willock and Forbes decided to partner with the private sector to make this generous donation possible. The sponsors who supported their efforts include Smith Gore-BVI Real Estate, Skelton Group of Companies, and Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina.

Both Willock and Forbes are alumni of the Ebenezer Thomas Primary School, making their contribution even more meaningful. During the donation event, Willock expressed his gratitude for the ongoing support received by the school, particularly acknowledging the efforts of 3rd District Representative, Hon. Julian Fraser RA.

Ms. Sandra L. Grisham, the Director of Business Development for Scrub Island, also addressed the students during the event. She emphasized the importance of education and encouraged the students to stay focused on their studies. Grisham commended the students on their impressive assembly and even expressed the possibility of one of them taking her job in the future.

Principal Ashkisha N. Maduro of Ebenezer Thomas Primary School expressed her excitement about the partnership and extended her heartfelt gratitude to Willock, Forbes, and the corporate partners for their support. She highlighted the positive impact this donation will have on the school and its students.

This recent donation follows a back-to-school giveaway organized by Willock and Forbes in August 2023, benefiting over 130 students in District Three. During that event, Willock promised the principal that they would continue to support the school.

In addition to their generous donations, Willock issued a challenge to the school to participate in the District Three festival troupe for the 2024, 70th anniversary of the Emancipation celebrations. He expressed his desire to see both children and adults from District Three come together to form the troupe and celebrate this significant milestone.

Willock also announced plans for a job fair and a food pantry in District Three. He hopes to collaborate with District Three Representative, Hon. Fraser, and has already reached out to him via a letter to discuss the implementation of these initiatives.

Former Speaker of the House of Assembly Julian Willock, right, gives remarks. Left is ETPS Principal Ashkisha N. Maduro. Photo: Provided

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Twelve Contestants to Compete in Haynes Smith Ms. Caribbean Talented Teen Pageant

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The Haynes Smith Ms. Caribbean Talented Teen Pageant returns on December 29 in the British Virgin Islands.

Twelve remarkable young women from across the Caribbean will showcase their cultures, share their dreams, and connect with their communities.

Representing the British Virgin Islands is Ms. Asha Hyndman, a young woman whose commitment to her heritage, health advocacy, and future dreams has already inspired many around her. Asha’s platform, Looking Good: Eye Care Education for All, hits close to home. Living with Keratoconus, a progressive eye condition affecting her vision, Asha understands the challenges that come with an invisible condition. “Eye health is often overlooked, but I know firsthand how deeply it can affect your life,” Asha shares. Through her platform, she hopes to educate others, raise awareness about vision care, and show compassion to those with similar challenges.

Asha’s ambitions extend beyond healthcare advocacy. She is passionate about Moko Jumbie, the traditional stilt-walking art of the Caribbean that embodies both skill and storytelling. “Moko Jumbie is more than a performance; it’s our culture in motion,” she says. Asha envisions making this art form more visible, from local celebrations to global stages, while also mentoring young performers to ensure this tradition endures. “It’s an honor to be part of something that has stood the test of time, and I want to keep that spirit alive,” she adds.

On the academic front, Asha has set her sights on becoming an ophthalmologist, a dream shaped by her own experience with vision issues. After completing her studies in Biology, she hopes to establish an ophthalmology practice in her home country, expanding it across the Caribbean over time. “I want to give people in my community the kind of specialized care that they often have to leave the island to find,” she explains. She even has her sights set on collaborating with the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute in Miami, a move she believes will bring top-quality eye care within reach for Caribbean residents.

Yet Asha’s ambitions reach even further. A lover of travel and discovery, she’s been inspired by the adventures of popular travel vloggers Kara and Nate, and she’s eager to explore every corner of the world—particularly the remote beauty of Antarctica. “There’s so much to learn from different cultures, landscapes, and experiences,” she says with excitement. “Travel gives you a new perspective on life, and I can’t wait to broaden my own.”

The Haynes Smith Ms. Caribbean Talented Teen Pageant has long been a space for young women like Asha to celebrate their identity and passions. It’s more than a pageant—it’s a gathering of dreams and the shared spirit of the Caribbean’s next generation. As December approaches, these twelve contestants aren’t just preparing for a competition; they’re ready to step into the spotlight, showing the Caribbean and the world what they’re made of. This year’s pageant promises to be a heartfelt tribute to the strength, talent, and future of the islands.

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MHV Resorts and Hotels Unveils the Cane Garden Bay Beach Hotel in Tortola

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MHV Resorts & Hotels has officially taken the reins of Quito’s Luxury Inn and Quito’s Gazebo Restaurant & Bar, following months of negotiations. The resort group, led by prominent Virgin Islands businessman Mark Vanterpool, assumed control of the well-known Cane Garden Bay properties on October 1, 2024. As part of the transition, the hotel will be rebranded as The Cane Garden Bay Beach Hotel by MHV Resorts and Hotels.

MHV Resorts & Hotels has a robust 40-year history in the British Virgin Islands, with a portfolio that includes supermarkets, restaurants, and now high-end hotels. Their expansion into the hospitality industry reflects the group’s commitment to enhancing the BVI’s tourism offerings and providing quality service for both locals and visitors.

In a statement, Vanterpool expressed his enthusiasm for the project, saying, “MHV Resorts and Hotels is excited to join the vibrant Cane Garden Bay community, a cultural and tourism icon in the BVI. We look forward to creating employment opportunities and collaborating with local businesses to foster sustainable growth, while preserving the bay’s unique charm.”

The renovated restaurant, formerly known as Quito’s Gazebo, will reopen in the coming month under the new name Rhythm & Sands, continuing its legacy as a beloved destination for music and good times. Guests can expect a perfect blend of fine dining and the laid-back rhythms that have long made Cane Garden Bay a favorite in the BVI. The hotel is set to open shortly after, just in time for the 2024-2025 tourist season.

With this transition, any uncertainty surrounding the future of the historic property can be laid to rest. The new Cane Garden Bay Beach Hotel promises a luxurious escape where guests can enjoy the tranquil beauty of the bay and the soothing sounds of the sea.

To book your stay or learn more about the new hotel and restaurant, visit: CaneGardenBayBeachHotel.net. For official updates, visit MHVresortsandhotels.com.

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Chargers Teachers Receive Heartfelt Gifts to Kick Off 2024 Teacher Appreciation Week

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The excitement at ETPS Downs was electric as teachers were showered with gifts and tokens of appreciation, thanks to the school’s PTA Class Representatives.

The thoughtful deliveries, ranging from flowers to personalized items, marked the start of the 2024 Teacher Appreciation Week, an annual celebration that recognizes the hard work and dedication of educators.

The initiative, aptly dubbed “Chargers Love Gifts,” sparked joy across the campus. Teachers were visibly moved by the kind gestures, with smiles and gratitude radiating as the school community rallied to honor their contributions.

As the festivities for Teacher Appreciation Week continue, the school invites everyone to join in honoring the educators who shape the minds and futures of tomorrow.

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