Education
Jost Van Dyke Residents Reconnected to BVIEC Grid
Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Kye M. Rymer, has announced that the residents of Jost Van Dyke have been successfully reconnected to the British Virgin Islands Electricity Corporation (BVIEC) grid. BVIEC successfully made the required joints in the subsea-cable and connected it to the grid, followed by the necessary testing and energising of the cable.
However, progress was not without its hurdles, as unfavourable weather conditions delayed the repair work for several weeks.
“The favorable weather and calm waters have allowed divers to make some strides in the restoration efforts, to completion,” remarked the Minister in a press release, highlighting the collaborative effort that was underway to bring back electricity to the island.
General Manager for BVIEC, Dr. Neil Smith, expressed his team’s dedication in getting the sister island back on the grid.
“We made one of the required joints in the subsea cable yesterday, Thursday, February 15, and a joint on the land-side to connect the cable to the grid,” stated Dr. Smith. “We then commenced the necessary testing and energized the cable. We really wanted to restore the sister island onto the grid today, Friday, February 16, and I am grateful for the dedication of the team at BVIEC in seeing this through.”
It was on September 18, 2023, when the island was first plunged into darkness due to a subsea cable failure, leaving its residents grappling with the challenges of life without electricity.
The BVIEC Electricity Corporation swiftly responded to the crisis, installing generators to provide temporary relief to the island’s inhabitants. However, these measures were not without their own set of challenges, as the temporary setup experienced multiple failures, resulting in recurrent power outages over the following months.
Despite the setbacks, the BVIEC remained undeterred in their mission to restore power to Jost Van Dyke. Late in December, the corporation successfully acquired the necessary parts to repair the subsea cable, marking a significant step forward in the restoration efforts.
Education
Ralph T. & Edris O’Neal Dinner Supports Culinary Education
The British Virgin Islands Food and Wine Festival is set to host an event that promises to tantalise the taste buds while supporting a noble cause.
On Saturday, May 11, 2024, at Rosewood Little Dix Bay, the culinary world’s luminaries will converge for an evening of culinary mastery in support of the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College Culinary Studies Program.
Leading the charge are the esteemed Chef Brent Lettsome, Chef Michael Ferrero, Chef Freddy Money, Chef Josie Smith Malave and Chef Andrew Gaskin, a dream team of world-renowned culinary masters. Each brings their unique expertise and flair to the table, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
The event, organised by The Ralph T. & Edris O’Neal Foundation, aims to bolster the Culinary Studies Program at H. Lavity Stoutt Community College, nurturing the next generation of culinary talents in the British Virgin Islands.
But the evening is not just about food; it’s about community and education. Proceeds from the event will directly benefit the Culinary Studies Program, providing students with access to essential resources, scholarships and opportunities for growth in the culinary arts.
To ensure an unforgettable experience for all attendees, a charter boat will depart from Road Town at 4:30 PM, ferrying guests to Rosewood Little Dix Bay.
Tickets for this exclusive event are priced at $300 per person or $500 for couples, with all proceeds going towards supporting culinary education in the British Virgin Islands.
Reserve your tickets now and get ready for an unforgettable culinary experience at The Ralph T. & Edris O’Neal Foundation Dinner.
Education
Governor Participates in Teach for A Day Initiative at ESHS
As part of Education Month, Governor Daniel Pruce of the territory embraced the opportunity to engage in the Department for Education’s Teach for A Day initiative.
Stepping into the shoes of an educator, he joined Ms. Sylvanna Charles’ Grade 9 class at Elmore Stoutt High School for a session centered around the works of English poet Rupert Brooke.
Governor Pruce facilitated a discussion on Rupert Brooke’s poetry, inviting young minds to delve into themes and interpretations.
Reflecting on the experience, the Governor expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, highlighting its significance in shaping the educational landscape and fostering community engagement. He remarked, “This is a way to give people an opportunity to contribute to the school curriculum, and help invest in the future of the Territory.”
Impressed by the enthusiasm and inquisitiveness of the Grade 9 pupils, the Governor commended their active participation and questions. He added, “I enjoyed my session with the Grade 9 pupils – a group with some questions.”
The Teach for A Day initiative not only provided a platform for community leaders to connect with students but also underscored the collective commitment towards nurturing an educational environment.
Education
BVI Tourist Board & Film Commission Hosts Film Development Workshop with James Bland
On March 1st, the British Virgin Islands Tourist Board & Film Commission launched their Film Development Workshop featuring James Bland, an actor and award-winning producer, as the Special Guest Facilitator.
The event focused on various aspects of filmmaking, with a particular emphasis on screenplay writing, as shared by James Bland.
The workshop aimed to support and develop talent within the Virgin Islands film industry, providing exposure to industry professionals like Bland.
Participants gained insights and knowledge to enhance their skills in filmmaking, leaving the event equipped with valuable tools to advance in the industry.
The BVI Tourist Board & Film Commission reiterated their commitment to fostering growth and excellence in the local film community, promising continued support for future initiatives.
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