Local News
VISAR’s Winter Wonderland Brings Festive Fun to Nanny Cay
Virgin Islands Search and Rescue (VISAR) is back with its much-anticipated annual fundraiser, “VISAR’s Winter Wonderland and Holiday Village officially kicking off the holiday season in the Virgin Islands. on Friday, November 24, at 5 PM at Nanny Cay.
This marks the 4th edition of the event and this time, they’ve chosen the Nanny Cay as the backdrop for this holiday extravaganza.
The ice skating extravaganza which promises to be bigger and better than ever will continue until Saturday, December 30th, allowing both locals and visitors to enjoy the festivities throughout the season.
A Winter Wonderland in the Caribbean
While the main attraction remains the ice skating rink, there’s much more to see and do at VISAR’s Winter Wonderland. Every Friday and Saturday night, Nanny Cay will transform into a Holiday Village, featuring a delightful array of food and ice cream vendors to satisfy your cravings. Throughout the five weeks, a full roster of special events will keep the entertainment going strong. A detailed list of these events can be found in the attached press release.
The ice skating rink will be open during various hours to accommodate all schedules and preferences. On Fridays and Saturdays, it will be open from 5 PM to 10 PM, and on Sundays, it will operate from 5 PM to 9 PM. Additionally, from December 18 to December 28, the rink will be open from 5 PM to 9 PM. Please note that there are a few dates when the rink will be closed, as listed in the press release.
Skating for a Cause
While you enjoy the winter wonderland in the Caribbean, there’s also an opportunity to contribute to a good cause. The cost to skate is $10 per person for a 30-minute session, and the money raised goes directly to supporting VISAR’s essential operations, ensuring they are available 24/7/365 to provide the best possible response to maritime distress situations.
In an effort to make skating safe and enjoyable for everyone, VISAR has amended its policy for skaters aged 7 and younger. Children under 7 can skate along with a paying adult from 5 PM to 8 PM. After 8 PM, children under 7 can be on the ice at the discretion of the Rink Manager and Staff. For adults uncomfortable on the ice, there is an alternative: a $10 donation will get them a staff member to accompany their child on the rink during the 30-minute session.
Supporting the Community
VISAR’s Winter Wonderland isn’t just about having fun and raising funds; it’s also about giving back to the community that supports them. High school students can earn community service hours at the rink, and the event provides seasonal employment opportunities for 10-12 young adults. It’s noteworthy that five volunteers from the previous season have been hired to join the staff this year, highlighting the positive impact this event has on the community.
A Special Partnership with Nanny Cay
Nanny Cay Resort and Marina is an integral partner in this endeavor. Jane Tyrell, Nanny Cay Resort Manager, emphasized their commitment to providing a safe, family-oriented, and enjoyable holiday experience for all visitors. Nanny Cay’s picturesque setting, complete with a stunning marina and a variety of dining options, enhances the festive spirit of Winter Wonderland. It allows guests to enjoy more than just ice skating; they can create lasting memories in a safe, family-friendly environment.
With VISAR’s Winter Wonderland, you can experience the perfect blend of a tropical paradise and wintery fun in the heart of the Caribbean. So, mark your calendars, lace up your skates, and join the holiday fun at Nanny Cay while supporting a worthy cause. It’s a win-win for everyone involved. For more information, check VISAR’s Facebook and website or contact Julie Schneider at Purpose Driven Consultants. Let’s make this holiday season truly magical in the Virgin Islands.
https://www.facebook.com/jtv55/videos/832126835376971
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Local News
Governor’s Office Delivers Trauma Risk Management Training to Frontline Officers in Virgin Islands
The Governor’s Office, with support from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, this week delivered Trauma Risk Management (TRiM) training to frontline officers in the Virgin Islands, including members of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force, prison officers and volunteers from Virgin Islands Search and Rescue (VISAR).
The program is designed to help first responders recognize and manage the psychological effects of traumatic incidents encountered in the course of their duties. Participants received instruction on identifying early signs of stress-related responses and providing peer support following critical events.
According to the Governor’s Office, the training forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen welfare and resilience within frontline services across the territory.
“By strengthening welfare and resilience within our front line services, we are ensuring that the people who protect us are supported themselves,” the Governor’s Office said in a statement.
Officials thanked participants for their involvement and acknowledged the trainer for leading the sessions.
Trauma Risk Management, commonly known as TRiM, is a peer-support process used in emergency services and military settings to assess and address the mental health impact of traumatic exposure.

Entertainment
Maya Marcellin Departs for Teen Universe International Pageant in Nicaragua
Maya Marcellin, Teen Universe British Virgin Islands, departed the territory on Feb. 22 for Nicaragua, where she will compete in the Teen Universe International Pageant.
Marcellin left the British Virgin Islands on Sunday accompanied by family members and supporters as she begins representing the territory in the international competition. The pageant will bring together contestants from several countries to compete in preliminary events leading up to the final show.
Supporters gathered prior to her departure to offer encouragement as she travels to Nicaragua to represent the British Virgin Islands on the international stage.

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