Local News
British Virgin Islands Prepares to Host Fourth Wagner Sailing Rally Honouring Legacy of Polish Sailor Wladek Wagner
The British Virgin Islands is gearing up to host the fourth Wagner Sailing Rally from January 25 to January 28, an event celebrating the life and contributions of the late Polish sailor, Wladek Wagner, who made his mark in Bellamy Cay and Trellis Bay during the 1940s and 1950s.
Dr. Katherine Smith, Director of Culture, highlighted the rally’s focus on recognizing the impactful relationship between Mr. Wagner and the late Mr. Obel Penn, alongside other residents from the East End/Long Look community. This collaboration significantly contributed to the development of Beef Island and Trellis Bay, underlining the historical ties that shaped the region.
Emphasizing the importance of heritage and remembrance, Dr. Smith expressed anticipation for cultural exchanges, particularly in music and dance, representative of both Virgin Islands and Polish culture.
The opening ceremony, in collaboration with the Department of Culture, is slated for Thursday, January 25, at 6:00 p.m. at the Trellis Bay Market Bar and Grill on Beef Island. The ceremony will include the raising of the Virgin Islands, British, and Polish flags, the unveiling of Wladek Wagner’s Remembrance Plaque, and a Rally Welcome Concert featuring various cultural performances.
Ephraim and Shamora Penn, event coordinators, conveyed their excitement to welcome participants to the Wagner Sailing Rally Trellis Bay, expressing that the event also honors Mr. Obel Penn’s commitment to the East End/Long Look districts and the overall advancement of the Territory.
On Friday, January 26, water-based and recreational sporting activities will commence at 11:00 a.m., culminating in the highly anticipated Full Moon Party at Trellis Bay. The festivities continue on Saturday, January 27, with a yacht parade to Jost van Dyke and the End of Rally Concert at Foxy’s.
Under the patronage of the Government of the Virgin Islands, the Polish Yachting Association of North America is expected to attract 250 to 300 Polish sailors, contributing to the vibrant cultural exchange and celebration of shared maritime heritage.
With festival culture at its core, the Wagner Sailing Rally promises an array of entertainment, leisure activities, socializing, unique experiences, and a delightful exploration of local cuisine. The Virgin Islands community is warmly invited to participate in the scheduled activities that honor significant aspects of the Territory’s rich culture and heritage.
Local News
Animal Lover Celebrates Birthday by Raising $2,500 for BVI Humane Society
Local News
Virgin Islands Doubles Residency Requirement for Belonger Status
Local News
Tola Radio Battles Legal Dispute Over Shutdown, Calls for Public Support
Tola Radio VI 100.5 FM, known as “the people’s radio,” has been off the air for 14 days amidst a legal standoff with Caribbean Cellular Telephone Limited (CCT). Managing Director Floyd P. Burnett, also known as “Heritage,” is urging public support as the station navigates what he describes as a targeted attack on freedom of speech and locally-owned businesses.
Mr. Burnett alleges that despite meeting all payment requirements and deadlines, CCT refused to accept Tola Radio’s payment and later disabled the station’s broadcasting equipment. “They physically touched our equipment and locked them off, despite written legal letters asking and instructing it not to be done,” he stated.
The dispute follows CCT’s October announcement terminating its service agreement with the radio station. CCT clarified that Tola Radio could retain its services if it became a paying customer, but according to Burnett, his payment was rejected without justification.
The controversy escalated when Burnett claimed an attempt was made to have him arrested and charged with attempted murder. “The public was to wake up and hear the radio off along with hearing I was arrested and charged, but God is greater than man!” he said.
Efforts to secure an extension for relocating Tola Radio’s equipment were also denied, Burnett said. Additionally, an urgent injunction filed in the High Court was postponed by a visiting judge until November 22 without hearing any arguments.
The ongoing shutdown has left eight employees without income, caused significant financial losses, and breached client agreements. Burnett criticized government officials for their lack of action, accusing them of failing to address the issue despite the government being a major client of CCT.
“Like most problems facing the BVI, they can’t [find] no way to help us! Even though the government is the tower people’s biggest client,” Burnett remarked.
Burnett is calling on the public to boycott CCT in protest. “Plug out the phone, plug out the chip, don’t pay your bill! We need to make a statement to corporate BVI today!” he urged.
He framed the situation as a broader fight for “freedom of speech, freedom of the press, and freedom of information,” asserting that the attack on Tola Radio sets a dangerous precedent for other local businesses.
Despite the challenges, Burnett assured Tola Radio’s listeners and partners that the station will resume broadcasting soon. “We will be back on air shortly, hopefully before the day is out,” he promised.
-
Crime/Police5 days ago
Two Charged with Gun Possession Following Vessel Search in Frenchman’s Cay
-
Crime/Police2 weeks ago
Shots Fired Near ESHS: Man Injured, High School Goes Into Lockdown
-
Crime/Police1 week ago
K’Shawn Martin Wanted for Questioning in Shooting on Sandbox Road
-
Local News5 days ago
Tola Radio Battles Legal Dispute Over Shutdown, Calls for Public Support
-
Local News2 weeks ago
Virgin Islands Coach Earns Bodybuilding PRO Card in The Bahamas
-
Entertainment2 weeks ago
Tortola Welcomes Exclusive Japanese Dining at 1748 Sushi Bar
-
Local News2 weeks ago
TAG and CIBC Caribbean Host Second Annual Season of Giving Sales Event
-
Local News17 hours ago
Virgin Islands Doubles Residency Requirement for Belonger Status