Local News
Opposition Leader Withdraws from Joint Press Conference with Premier
The Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Ronnie W. Skelton, has pulled out of a scheduled joint press conference with Premier and Minister of Finance Dr. the Hon. Natalio D. Wheatley.
The move comes in the wake of an announcement by His Excellency the Governor John J. Rankin on Friday, January 5, revealing his intention to seek additional powers from the United Kingdom. These powers would enable him to introduce legislation in the House of Assembly, sparking an emergency meeting of legislators from both the government and the Opposition.
Premier Wheatley had earlier made a statement, conveying the unanimous opposition of the entire House of Legislators to Governor Rankin’s proposed powers. It was announced that Leader of the Opposition, Honourable Ronnie W. Skelton, would join Premier Wheatley in a joint press conference on January 8.
However, in an unexpected reversal, Hon. Skelton declared that the Opposition would hold their own press conference on Tuesday, January 9, instead of sitting with Premier Wheatley. He explained, “As the days went by, we considered the press conference, realising that our stance on constitutional advancement might be compromised by aligning with the Premier and the government. We have decided to hold our own press conference on Tuesday afternoon at three o’clock, with the full Opposition in agreement.”
Despite this decision, Hon Skelton emphasised that all members of the Opposition remain committed to standing in solidarity with the government on constitutional matters. He stated, “While we will address our concerns independently, it’s important to note that the Opposition stands united with the government on issues related to constitutional matters. We will speak in unison to ensure a cohesive approach to these crucial issues.”
The press conference on Tuesday promises to shed light on the Opposition’s perspectives and intentions regarding the proposed legislative changes.
Click below audio link
Seven young boys from the British Virgin Islands are set to experience basketball at its finest as they head to Orlando, Florida From November 23 to 28. The ballerswill participate in the Jr. Orlando Magic Youth Basketball Camp, an opportunity that combines skill development, fun, and a front-row seat to the NBA world.
The trip is organised through Sports Vision Academy, led by Mr. Eustace “Boss” Freeman. The young athletes—Niquan Freeman, Kyle Gumbs Jr., Jahy Smith, Ke’mori Daway, Tiondre Martin, Jaiden Cameron, and Jadey Glasgow—will be accompanied by Freeman himself, alongside Jovaughn Cameron and Roy Garraway.
“It’s the first time attending this camp, and the boys will also get the opportunity to attend an NBA game as well,” Freeman shared enthusiastically. “They will witness the Bulls take on the Magic, which is bound to be an unforgettable experience.”
The camp promises not only to refine their basketball skills but also to expose them to professional-level gameplay and sportsmanship.
Freeman expressed deep gratitude to the sponsors who made the trip possible, including the BVI Olympic Committee, Travel Wize LTD, and HNF. “Today’s youth are tomorrow’s stars,” Freeman said, reflecting on the impact this trip could have on the boys’ futures.
For these young ballers, this is more than a camp—it’s a chance to dream big and see where their talent can take them.
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.
Seven Young Ballers Embark on an Eight-Day Basketball Adventure in Orlando
Teen Arrested in Connection With Series of Burglaries Across Virgin Islands
Animal Lover Celebrates Birthday by Raising $2,500 for BVI Humane Society
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