Local News
Department of Disaster Management Hosts Community Preparedness Meetings on Sister Islands
The Department of Disaster Management (DDM) is taking proactive steps to enhance community-based resilience by organizing community preparedness meetings on the sister islands. In collaboration with the Sister Islands Programme, the DDM has already conducted meetings in North Sound, Valley, and The Settlement, with the final meeting scheduled for today, October 18th, at the Jost Van Dyke Methodist Church Annex.
Cecil Jeffrey, Community Relations Officer at the DDM, highlighted the importance of these sessions in enabling sister islands residents to meet the DDM team and acquire valuable knowledge on preparing for and responding to hazards. Mr. Jeffrey emphasized the significance of empowering individuals to take action after a disaster, ensuring they do not feel helpless in the face of adversity.
During the meetings, residents have received practical tips on hurricane preparedness and handling other hazards. They have also been educated on contingency and disaster planning, staying informed, and considerations for emergency shelter. Moreover, DDM and Sister Islands Programme officers have engaged attendees in discussions about training opportunities and community evacuation planning.
The officers have also taken the opportunity to inform residents about the upcoming ShakeOut earthquake preparedness exercise, scheduled to take place on October 19th. By sharing this information, the DDM aims to raise awareness and encourage participation in this important drill.
Residents seeking further resources can access a range of valuable tools on the DDM’s website, including a hurricane tracking map, templates for family and business emergency plans, and tips for preparing for storms and other hazards.
Through these community preparedness meetings and the provision of resources, the DDM is actively promoting a culture of preparedness and resilience among sister islands residents. By empowering individuals and fostering a sense of collective responsibility, the DDM aims to enhance the Territory’s ability to effectively respond to emergencies and protect its communities.
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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