Local News
New West End Ferry Terminal to Accommodate 200,000 Passengers Annually

Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Kye Rymer, recently announced that the new West End Ferry Terminal in the Virgin Islands will be designed to accommodate up to 200 passengers per hour, or 200,000 passengers per year.
The completion of this terminal will more than double the size of the previous facility, with the Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) overseeing its design and construction.
During his statement at the House of Assembly, Minister Rymer emphasized the collaborative effort between key stakeholders involved in the project. These stakeholders include the BVI Ports Authority, the Immigration Department, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force, His Majesty’s Customs, the BVI Tourist Board, ferry operators, and taxi drivers.
Minister Rymer expressed his satisfaction with the progress of the project, highlighting key milestones achieved so far. He commended the success of three local firms in the pre-qualification procurement process, emphasizing their ability to compete in bidding processes. These firms, one standalone applicant and two joint-venture firms, will be invited to participate in the full tender process.
However, Minister Rymer noted that there are still several processes that need to be completed before the construction phase can commence. The expected completion date for the project is mid-2026.
The new West End Ferry Terminal will serve various types of water transportation, including private and charter yachts, private boats, water taxis, and ferry passengers traveling between the neighboring US Virgin Islands and Jost Van Dyke and Tortola. Minister Rymer emphasized that while the airport and the ferry terminal cater to different markets, both aim to improve transportation and access to the islands, enhance the tourism product, and contribute to the overall socioeconomic advancement of the Virgin Islands.
Minister Rymer extended his gratitude to the RDA for their dedication to excellence in managing this major project and for their collaboration with the Ministry to advance the works.
Entertainment
Local Farmers to Launch Educational Children’s Books Celebrating Agriculture and Culture in the Virgin Islands

The Virgin Islands’ cultural and literary community is poised to welcome the launch of two new educational publications authored by local farmers next week, marking a unique blend of agriculture, culture, and youth education.
The books — Johnny the Great Rooster and Arona’s First Garden Colouring Book — are the work of Jeffrey and Arona Forbes, a husband-and-wife team deeply rooted in the territory’s farming community. The publications aim to instill an appreciation for sustainable farming and traditional knowledge in younger generations.
Johnny the Great Rooster is a narrative children’s book that explores the often-overlooked role of chickens and roosters in sustainable agriculture. Through storytelling, the book underscores their importance in soil health, natural food production, and the preservation of cultural practices tied to rural life.
Meanwhile, Arona’s First Garden Colouring Book takes a more hands-on approach, introducing children to the basics of planting, nurturing, and harvesting. Its interactive format is designed to encourage early interest in gardening and the environment.
“The primary purpose of Johnny is to portray for all readers the important role that the rooster and chickens play in soil preservation, the provision of meat and eggs naturally, and the sustenance of our cultural heritage,” said the authors in a joint statement.
Anne Lennard, Deputy Director of Culture, praised the couple’s contribution, noting their longstanding influence in the agricultural sector. “The Forbeses are planting more than crops,” she said. “They are also planting seeds of knowledge, pride, and sustainability. Their work reflects the heart of our heritage, and these books will be valuable educational tools for generations to come.”
A public launch event is scheduled for Wednesday, May 8 at 5:00 p.m. at Transformation Church International in Road Town. The program will include readings, book signings, and an opportunity to meet the authors.
The event is hosted by the Department of Culture, whose mandate includes preserving and promoting the Virgin Islands’ cultural identity. The department continues to support local artists, educators, and tradition-bearers through initiatives that bridge the past and future.
Crime/Police
Three Years After Fatal Shooting, Suspect Reportedly Apprehended in USVI

Erick Rabsatt, the 24-year-old man wanted in connection with the December 2021 fatal shooting of Jaimez A. Stoutt in the British Virgin Islands, is reportedly in custody in the United States Virgin Islands.
A source close to the matter has confirmed that Rabsatt is currently being held in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, and is awaiting processing to be extradited to the British Virgin Islands to face charges in the case. No official statements have yet been released by authorities in either jurisdiction regarding the detention.
Stoutt, 31, was shot and killed inside Crystal’s Nightclub in Free Bottom, Tortola, on December 11, 2021. He was transported to Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital, where he later died. The incident occurred in the early morning hours and was followed by a police investigation that identified Rabsatt as the primary suspect. An arrest warrant was issued, and authorities launched a manhunt that extended across both the British and United States Virgin Islands.
Stoutt was a former U.S. Army soldier who served in Afghanistan in 2011. After returning to the British Virgin Islands, he worked at CCT Global Communications before founding his own landscaping business, Military Cutz. He was also known for his involvement in local basketball leagues.
Following the incident, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force issued appeals to the public for assistance in locating Rabsatt and circulated his photo throughout the region.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
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