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Content Creator Kyra James to Host More for 2024 VIP Rooftop Party

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Renowned Virgin Islands content creator and digital producer Kyra James is set to take center stage as the special guest host for the highly anticipated More for 2024 VIP Rooftop Party at the Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbour on December 31.

James, a trailblazer in the creative economy, has rapidly risen through the ranks, earning her stripes as a vital part of the new generation of young Virgin Islanders making their mark in the industry. Her remarkable journey includes a stint as the Digital Producer for the 2023 Grammy Awards, collaborating with major names such as Essence, CultureConn, and Refinery29.

Under her brand “Kickin It,” James is at the forefront of empowering millennial and Gen-Z Virgin Islanders to express their unique identities in the digital age. Her innovative projects, such as the card game “Culture Shock” and the recent history preservation initiative, “The Capsule Project,” unveiled in November as part of Culture Month, showcase her commitment to the intersection of culture and creativity.

Joining James on the main stage of More for 2024 are local personalities Darrly Flanders, Toriah Price, Adrianna Soverall, and the esteemed editor and host of 284 News, Ronn Grant.

The event organizers are notably supporting young talent across the Virgin Islands, evident in various facets of the New Year’s Eve celebrations. Virgin Gorda artist Tia Modeste is diligently working on installations that will transform abandoned vehicles into picturesque attractions. Culinary sensations Aria Flax and [additional name] are set to tantalize VIP Rooftop party patrons with a diverse array of gourmet eats and treats. Additionally, a cadre of young individuals will participate in the vendors market, spanning both the food and craft sections of the event.

As 2023 draws to a close, revelers are invited to ring in the New Year with an unforgettable night of music and celebration.

While the event is free to the public, those seeking a VIP experience can secure tickets by visiting the event website at www.vgyh.events.

Stay tuned for event updates by visiting vgyh.events or following Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbour on Facebook – VGYH Events, and Instagram/TikTok – @vgyhevents.

 

 

Crime/Police

Tensions Flare as Parents Confront Elmore Stoutt High School Staff Over Contraband Crackdown

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PHOTO: Confiscated items displayed in a slideshow at the recent ESHS PTA meeting, highlighting ongoing security concerns.

A crackdown on contraband at Elmore Stoutt High School (ESHS) has sparked heated confrontations between parents and school officials, with administrators raising concerns about aggressive behavior from guardians and a troubling rise in prohibited items on campus.

In a letter sent to parents on February 20, Principal Vanessa Garraway revealed that routine searches at the school uncovered a significant amount of contraband and illegal substances among students. The alarming findings prompted stricter policies and the involvement of School Resource Officers from the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF). However, instead of cooperation, some parents have responded with hostility.

“We have seen an increase in parents arriving at school and behaving aggressively towards teachers and administrators,” the letter stated. “This type of behavior will not be tolerated.”

The issue of contraband at the school has been growing, and the administration is now taking a tougher stance. Effective February 24, students caught with prohibited items will not only face confiscation but will also be sent home immediately, with an accompanying suspension. Parents will be required to collect their child in such cases.

“We need parents to do more,” Garraway urged in the letter. “It is your responsibility to check your child’s belongings before they leave for school and have open conversations about the importance of following school rules and making positive choices.”

In response to the escalating situation, School Resource Officers have been stationed on campus to curb violent incidents, monitor student behavior, and enforce discipline. Their presence aims to deter misconduct, particularly in light of growing concerns over students making threats, whether serious or in jest. The school has made it clear that any such threats will be reported directly to the RVIPF.

“We are taking a no-nonsense approach,” Garraway wrote, emphasizing the severity of the situation.

The Ministry of Education has also weighed in, calling on parents to take a more active role in supporting efforts to maintain a secure learning environment. “Recent routine inspections continue to uncover prohibited items which pose serious risks to students’ health and well-being,” the Ministry said in a statement.

The Ministry reiterated that matters involving weapons, alcohol, and drugs will be referred to the RVIPF and the Social Development Department for further intervention. Additionally, officials reminded parents that mobile phones are not among the approved devices for use during the school day.

“We are reinforcing a Zero Tolerance Policy for any behavior or possession of items that compromise school safety,” the Ministry stated. “Our goal is to provide a safe and secure learning environment where students can focus on their education without unnecessary disruptions.”

As ESHS moves forward with these new measures, school officials and the Ministry of Education continue to uphold policies aimed at ensuring a structured and secure environment for all students.

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Entertainment

Caribbean Baking Awards to Stream Live on JTV – Watch the Region’s Best Bakers Compete

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Some of the best bakers from across the Caribbean are gearing up for the Caribbean Baking Awards (CBA), a two-day event celebrating creativity, skill, and the flavours that make Caribbean baking unique. The competition will be streamed live on Jahphix Television (JTV), so viewers from across the region and beyond can watch the action as it happens.

Bakers from across the Caribbean will go head-to-head in various categories, putting their skills to the test in front of expert judges. The competition will feature teams from:

  • Virgin Islands (US) – Team Hibiscus Sweets
  • Trinidad and Tobago – Team Trini Cakes Revellers & Team Flavour Masters Possé
  • Jamaica – Team Sweet Success & Team The Dynamic Duo
  • Antigua and Barbuda – Team The Glass Jar & Team Sweet Art 268
  • Virgin Islands (BVI) – Team Bombshell
  • Dominica – Team Donmnik Dou
  • Guyana – Team Sweet Secrets
  • Barbados – Team Bimstars
  • Saint Lucia – Team Fruit Boss

The event takes place on February 21-22,  featuring live baking, expert judging, and special guest appearances. Chef Kareem Brooks from Saint Martin will be one of the judges, while hosts Julie Mango and Ricky “Daphox” Bertie will keep the energy high throughout the competition. The celebration will wrap up with an After Party on February 22, featuring a live performance by Onyan and the 3 Cylinder.

Viewers can watch live on JTV and be part of the excitement as bakers compete for top honours.

Tickets to attend in person are $10. Secure yours today and don’t miss out!

For more details and to watch the live stream, visit https://tinyurl.com/CBAwithJTVchannel55

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Entertainment

Lesley and Lestene Maduro Represent the BVI at Caribbean Baking Awards

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Lesley and Lestene Maduro of LSL Bakery in Virgin Gorda will be among the bakers competing at the Caribbean Baking Awards, set to take place in the British Virgin Islands.

LSL Bakery, a well-known establishment in Virgin Gorda, has been serving pastries, cakes, and other baked goods for years. Founded as a family business, it has grown into a recognised name in the local culinary scene.

The Caribbean Baking Awards bring together top bakers from across the region, with teams representing the British Virgin Islands, the US Virgin Islands, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Saint Lucia, Barbados, and Guyana. The competition includes categories such as Best Buttercream Cake, Rising Star, Cake Hero, and Best Cupcakes.

The awards ceremony will culminate in the Masquerade Awards Gala Dinner on Saturday, 22 February, at 5:00 PM at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex in Road Town, Tortola.

The event will bring together bakers, industry professionals, and guests to celebrate Caribbean culinary craftsmanship.

Voting for the awards opened on 7 September 2024, allowing the public to support their favourite bakers.

The event will also be streamed live on Jahphix Television (JTV).

Unable to attend the event in person? Enjoy the two-day action by securing your tickets for just $10. Click the link below to purchase.

Tickets for the gala dinner are available now. More information can be found at www.caribbeanbakingawards.com.
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