Local News
BVI Delegation Attends Agrifest on St. Croix
Premier the Hon. Natalio D. Wheatley attended the 52nd Annual Agriculture and Food Fair on St. Croix, US Virgin Islands. He was accompanied by Hon. Vincent Wheatley, Minister for Health and Social Development and Hon. Dr. Karl Dawson, Junior Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries.
Under the theme “Agriculture: Our Future and So Much More in 2024,” Agrifest 2024 unfolded from February 17th to the 19th at the Rudolph Shulterbrandt Agricultural Complex, Estate Lower.
The highlight of Saturday’s festivities was the Fair Wear Extravaganza, where local designers showcased their creations inspired by agricultural motifs. From patterns echoing the landscapes to designs utilising sustainable materials, the fashion show celebrated the intersection of fashion and agriculture.
Adding to the excitement, the Farmer of the Year award presentations honoured individuals whose dedication and innovation have propelled the agricultural sector forward.
But Agrifest was not just about accolades and showcases; it was a celebration of culture and community. Attendees were treated to a lineup of entertainment, including performances by the Superior Court Rising Stars Steel Orchestra and the We Deh Ya Cultural Dancers. The beats and displays captivated audiences, offering a glimpse into the cultural tapestry of the Virgin Islands.
Agrifest 2024 showcased participants from Guyana, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia and Grenada underscoring the importance of cooperation in advancing agricultural practices and fostering economic growth across the Caribbean region.
For families, the fair provided activities, from interactive exhibits to local delicacies. Children marvelled at animals, while parents savoured the flavours of produce and beverages. Amidst the hustle and bustle, Agrifest served as a platform for reconnecting with loved ones and strengthening bonds within the community.
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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.
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