Local News
Lions Club of Tortola Launches Vision 24 Project to Provide Free Eye Care in BVI
In a bid to champion eye health and ensure access to essential vision care, the Lions Club of Tortola unveils the commencement of its Vision 24 Project.
This groundbreaking initiative, aimed at offering free eye screening and eyeglasses, targets both the youthful vigor and the seasoned wisdom of the British Virgin Islands community.
“Vision impairment can severely impact the educational journey of our children,” emphasised Lion Linda Cills, MJF, co-chairperson of the project. “Through Vision 24, we strive to address this challenge and empower our youth and elderly with the gift of clear sight.”
Phase Two of the project, set to kick off on April 22nd, will see a dedicated team of 16 Optometrists and assistants from Volunteer Optometric Services to Humanity (VOSH) International conducting screenings and dispensing eyewear at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex in Road Town. The endeavor aims to provide eyeglasses, including prescription and sunglasses, to those in need, with further medical attention arranged for cases requiring specialized care.
Lion Daphodil Sampson MJF, President of Lions Club of Tortola, underscored the collaborative effort driving Vision 24, highlighting, “Our partnership with VOSH International, along with other key stakeholders, reflects our commitment to ensuring that no child is hindered in their educational pursuits due to visual impairment.”
Vision 24 epitomises Lions International’s ethos of community service, with a focus on early detection and intervention to preserve eye health. President Sampson noted the meticulous planning behind the initiative, ensuring that the team of volunteers, equipped with cutting-edge technology, can efficiently serve approximately 2,500 individuals throughout the week-long event.
VOSH International’s involvement underscores a broader commitment to global eye care, aligning seamlessly with Lions Club of Tortola’s mission to make a positive impact on the lives of those in need.
In Phase One, over 2,000 students underwent pre-screening, with approximately half referred for further evaluation in Phase Two. These efforts reflect the pressing need to address vision impairment, a widespread public health concern that impacts millions worldwide.
As Lions Club of Tortola celebrates fifty-two years of service, the Vision 24 Project underscores their commitment to community welfare.
With meetings held monthly, the club welcomes inquiries and volunteer involvement, underscoring their commitment to fostering a brighter future through clear vision.
For more information on the upcoming screening event or volunteer opportunities, interested parties are encouraged to contact the Lions Club of Tortola via phone, WhatsApp, email, or social media channels.
Education
Seven Young Ballers Embark on an Eight-Day Basketball Adventure in Orlando
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.
Crime/Police
Teen Arrested in Connection With Series of Burglaries Across Virgin Islands
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.
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