Local News
British Virgin Islands Christmas Past: A Heartwarming Celebration of Tradition, Community, and Giving
In the heart of the British Virgin Islands, a spirit of joy and togetherness enveloped the islands as Christmas approached. A timeless tapestry of traditions unfolded, weaving together the rich fabric of community spirit.
The islands were alive with the sounds of laughter and the scent of freshly baked tarts wafting through the air. Families came together, their homes adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. The spirit of camaraderie filled the air, as neighbours engaged in playful banter while participating in friendly “tart wars,” a unique tradition where families playfully competed to create the most delicious and visually appealing tart.
As the aroma of cakes,bread, ham, and turkey filled the kitchens, the anticipation of the Christmas feast grew. Friends and families meticulously planned get-togethers, sharing not only delicious meals but also the warmth of their companionship. Guava berry wine, the drink of the season, flowed freely, as islanders indulged in tasting sessions, savouring the rich flavours that embodied the essence of the holidays.
Yet, amidst the joyous preparations, the true spirit of Christmas shone through in the acts of kindness and generosity. The childlike excitement of exchanging gifts was complemented by a commitment to give back to the community. Many dedicated their time and resources to charitable causes, organising treats for children and assembling care packages for the less fortunate.
The islanders also embraced their spiritual heritage, attending special church services that kept the Christ in Christmas. Carolers roamed through communities, their voices harmonising in festive melodies that echoed the joy and hope of the season. The traditions, passed down through generations, served as a testament to the strength of the community and the values that bound them together.
Premier Natalio D. Wheatley’s 2023 Chritmas message emphasises the importance of preserving these traditions, ensuring that the younger generations inherited the legacy of a close-knit and harmonious society. Love was the common thread weaving through every aspect of the celebration – love for family, love for friends, and love for the entire community.
In a world often marred by hatred and violence, the British Virgin Islands stood as a beacon of love, peace, and harmony. As Christmas dawned, the islanders took a moment to reflect on their blessings and give thanks. The Premier’s call to spread love and happiness at home and abroad resonated deeply, inspiring a collective resolve to be a source of light in a world longing for peace.
And so, in the glow of twinkling lights and the warmth of shared laughter, the British Virgin Islanders celebrated Christmas, not just as a festive occasion but as a reaffirmation of their commitment to love, unity, and the enduring spirit of the Virgin Islands.
This Christmas, amid the tropical splendour, Premier Wheatley is asking all British Virgin Islanders to not just share in festivities but in a profound affirmation of love, unity, and the enduring spirit of our cherished community.
Crime/Police
Tensions Flare as Parents Confront Elmore Stoutt High School Staff Over Contraband Crackdown
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
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
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.
Flavor Masters Possé Takes Trinidad and Tobago’s Flavors to the Caribbean Baking Awards
Tensions Flare as Parents Confront Elmore Stoutt High School Staff Over Contraband Crackdown
Caribbean Baking Awards to Stream Live on JTV – Watch the Region’s Best Bakers Compete
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