Local News
Seven Schools Set to Compete in the Inter-School Chess Tournament Showdown
The Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs, and Sports is all set to host the Inter-Secondary School Chess Tournament, a battle of wits scheduled from December 12 to 13.
Seven schools, including Bregado Flax Educational Centre, Claudia Creque Educational Centre, Ciboney Centre for Excellence, Cedar International School, Elmore Stoutt High School, St. George’s Secondary School, and the Virgin Islands School of Technical Studies, will engage in an intense competition for the coveted title of Chess Champion at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex.
Minister for Education, Youth Affairs, and Sports, Honourable Sharie B. de Castro, highlighted the significance of chess in fostering critical thinking within a S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education approach. She expressed enthusiasm, stating, “At Innovation Week 2023, we saw how the chess portion was a huge success, consistent from the previous year.
This year, the young men, specifically the seniors from the Virgin Islands School of Technical Studies (VISTS), did not want to leave the chess station. From this, we anticipate the excitement of the Inter-Secondary School Tournament to be riveting and change the way, not only in reimagining education but also by adding to the landscape and culture of sports in the Territory.”
Dr. Marcia Potter, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, voiced support for integrating chess into school curricula, emphasizing its value as a tool in the S.T.E.A.M. educational approach. She stated, “We have embraced chess as an invaluable tool in our S.T.E.A.M. approach as all children can benefit from learning the game.”
Acting Chief Education Officer Mrs. Orlandette Crabbe highlighted the 21st-century skills that playing chess builds. She explained, “Chess fits well with S.T.E.A.M. education because it addresses high order thinking skills, analyzing, evaluating, and creating.” Mrs. Crabbe added, “Chess allows children to focus, plan, think ahead, and even visualize moves in a structured and logical manner, as they must learn to adapt quickly after receiving an unexpected move, making them flexible and creative.”
The tournament kicks off on Tuesday, December 12, with participants registering and an opening ceremony at 9:00 a.m. The initial rounds will follow. Day two, on Wednesday, December 13, will feature check-ins at 8:45 a.m., announcements, and subsequent rounds. The afternoon session will include the semi-finals and finals, culminating in the closing ceremony and awards presentation.
The public is invited to witness and support the schools and their players.
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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.
The Immigration and Passport (Amendment) Act, 2024, signed into law by Governor Daniel Pruce on November 1, introduces significant changes to the Territory’s immigration policies. Among the most notable amendments is the doubling of the residency requirement for individuals seeking Belonger status, extending the period from ten to twenty years.
The legislation also establishes an Immigration Appeals Board to handle challenges and disputes, reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing the transparency and accountability of the immigration process. Premier Natalio Wheatley described the amendments as a step forward in refining the system. “We are committed to ensuring that the process is transparent and equitab
Governor Daniel Pruce
le,” the Premier said in a statement.
While the new law introduces robust measures to regulate and manage immigration, it has drawn mixed reactions. One key point of contention is the lack of new pathways for children born in the Virgin Islands to non-Belonger parents. Critics argue that this omission leaves a gap in addressing a demographic often caught in legal limbo.
The amended law also tasks a newly created Quota Setting Committee with advising the Board of Immigration on annual quotas for residence and Belonger certificates. This ensures that quotas align with the Territory’s capacity and strategic objectives.
However, the law is not yet in effect. It will commence on a date to be announced by the Premier in the official Gazette. Applications submitted before this date will be processed under the previous legal framework, providing clarity for those already in the system.
The government has framed these changes as part of its broader strategy to ensure sustainable growth and prosperity for the Virgin Islands. “These amendments are designed to support the Territory’s long-term goals while maintaining fairness for all residents,” a government statement emphasised.
Teen Arrested in Connection With Series of Burglaries Across Virgin Islands
Animal Lover Celebrates Birthday by Raising $2,500 for BVI Humane Society
Virgin Islands Doubles Residency Requirement for Belonger Status
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