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.
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British Virgin Islands Financial Services Commission Welcomes New Leadership
The British Virgin Islands Financial Services Commission (BVIFSC) has announced new appointments to its governing board, with Mr. Gerard St Clair Farara KC stepping in as Chairman and Ms. Patlian Johnson as Commissioner. The appointments, confirmed by the Ministry of Financial Services, Labour, and Trade, mark a new chapter for the commission as it seeks to strengthen the territory’s financial services sector.
Mr. Gerard St Clair Farara KC has been appointed to a three-year term as Chairman, effective August 1, 2024. A seasoned legal expert with a distinguished career, Farara currently serves as a Commercial Court Judge for the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court and leads the litigation team at the BVI office of COLLAS CRILL, formerly Farara Kerins. Farara’s prominence in the legal community is further highlighted by his appointment as Queen’s Counsel in 1996, cementing his standing as a leading figure in the Virgin Islands Bar and the broader Eastern Caribbean.
Ms. Patlian Johnson will serve a one-year term as Commissioner, also beginning on August 1, 2024. Johnson, a Strategy and Policy Advisor with extensive experience, currently holds the position of National Coordinator for the UNDP Project Office. She brings an impressive academic background, including a Master of Science in Economics and Finance from the University of Bristol and a Bachelor of Science in Economics and Accounting with First Class Honours from the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus.
The pair will replace outgoing Chairman Mr. Robin F. Gaul and Commissioner Mr. Melvin A. Turnbull, whose terms have concluded. Minister of Financial Services, Labour, and Trade, Honourable Lorna G. Smith, OBE (AL), praised the new appointments, stating, “I am delighted to welcome Mr. Farara and Ms. Johnson to the BVIFSC Board of Commissioners. Their combined expertise will be invaluable as we continue to navigate the challenges and opportunities facing the financial services sector.”
Smith also expressed gratitude to the departing board members for their significant contributions to the growth and stability of the territory’s financial services industry. According to the Government Information Service (GIS), these appointments underscore the Virgin Islands’ commitment to maintaining a well-regulated and competitive financial services sector.
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