Local News
Virgin Islands Mourns the Passing of Vernon E. Malone: A Trailblazer Remembered
The Virgin Islands community is in mourning following the loss of a revered figure, Mr. Vernon E. Malone, who dedicated a significant portion of his life to public service, law enforcement and legislative leadership.
Malone, 76, passed away on Saturday, May 4th, at the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital, leaving behind a legacy of integrity, compassion and tireless dedication to his fellow Virgin Islanders.
Born on June 5th, 1947, in Long Look, Tortola, Malone’s journey from teacher to esteemed attorney and his subsequent career in law enforcement began in 1970 when he joined the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) as a constable. He ascended through the ranks, serving his community with distinction. In 1991, he became the territory’s first local Commissioner of Police, a position he held until 2002.
During his tenure, Malone implemented transformative measures to enhance the quality of policing, including the establishment of crucial units such as the Family and Juvenile Unit, the Major Crime Team and the Scenes of Crime Unit. His leadership not only elevated the professionalism of the force but also prioritised the welfare and educational opportunities for its officers.
Following his career in law enforcement, Malone transitioned to the realm of politics, serving as an elected member of the House of Assembly of the Virgin Islands from 2007 to 2011. His tenure in the legislative chamber was marked by a continued commitment to advocating for the rights and well-being of his constituents, further solidifying his reputation as a dedicated public servant.
In addition to his remarkable career achievements, Malone was a scholar and legal luminary, holding degrees in law including LLB and LLM.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force paid tribute to Malone’s legacy in an official statement, acknowledging his instrumental role in shaping the force’s trajectory and fostering a culture of academic and professional advancement among its ranks. Malone’s impact extended far beyond his professional accomplishments, touching the lives of countless individuals through his compassion, leadership, and advocacy for justice and equality.
As the territory mourns the loss of a beloved son and visionary leader, the owners, management, and staff of Jahphix and JTV join in extending heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Mr. Vernon Malone.
His indelible mark on the Virgin Islands will forever be remembered and cherished by those whose lives he touched.
Education
Former Legislator Dr Kedrick Pickering Becomes International Best-Selling Author with New Book
Dr Kedrick Pickering, former legislator and renowned obstetrician, has achieved international recognition with the release of his book, Walk in Faith & Medicine: Daily Lessons & Insights from a Doctor’s Handwritten Journal. Published on December 12, the 139-page Kindle edition has swiftly become the number one New Release in Obstetrics & Gynaecology on Amazon, earning Dr Pickering a place among Amazon’s International Best Sellers.
Walk in Faith & Medicine provides readers with a deeply personal account of Dr Pickering’s tenure as the only Obstetrician and Gynaecologist in the British Virgin Islands for nearly three decades. The book intricately weaves his medical experiences with his spiritual reflections, offering profound insights into the challenges of practising medicine in a setting where resources were often limited, but faith and resilience were abundant.
Through heartfelt anecdotes, Dr Pickering recounts the joys and struggles of his career, from the miracle of delivering life under difficult circumstances to the strength he found in spirituality when faced with adversity. Each chapter sheds light on the delicate balance between clinical expertise and moral contemplation.
The book’s release has received widespread acclaim, resonating with audiences in both medical and spiritual communities. Its success highlights Dr Pickering’s unique ability to capture the human side of healthcare while addressing universal themes of faith and hope.
Walk in Faith & Medicine is available exclusively as a Kindle edition and is already being hailed as an inspirational must-read.
The Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) brought smiles to the faces of over 100 children in the British Virgin Islands with a generous donation of Christmas gifts. The initiative, held on December 16, was a collaborative effort between the FCCA, the Government of the Virgin Islands, and the Youth Empowerment Project (YEP).
The festivities took place at YEP Headquarters in East End, where children were treated to a festive celebration. Staff from the MSC Virtuosa Cruise Ship donned Santa Claus and other character costumes, adding to the magic of the occasion. The event also received sponsorship from Diamond International.
Premier and Minister of Finance Hon. Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley expressed his gratitude for the FCCA’s ongoing commitment to the Virgin Islands community. “The leadership of the FCCA is a thoughtful group of individuals. For more than two decades, their gift-giving has brought smiles and filled hearts with joy and hope during this special time of year,” said Premier Wheatley. “On behalf of the Government of the Virgin Islands, I extend our sincere thanks to the FCCA and their co-sponsors for their generosity.”
Minister for Ports Hon. Kye M. Rymer highlighted the FCCA’s enduring partnership with the territory. “Their commitment to gift-giving for over 20 years deserves our acknowledgment,” said Rymer. He also commended the BVI Ports Authority for its collaboration with the FCCA in supporting such initiatives.
Director of YEP Hon. Stacy Mather shared his appreciation for the FCCA’s efforts. “This marks our second time receiving gifts from this initiative. We are incredibly fortunate and grateful for this generosity,” he said. “Thanks to the kindness of FCCA, Diamond International, and others, our Christmas celebrations begin a little earlier.”
The event was moderated by Deputy Secretary in the Ministry of Communications and Works, Ms. Haley Trott, and attended by Junior Minister for Tourism Hon. Luce Hodge-Smith, Deputy Director of YEP Ms. Bianca Dougan, and other community leaders.
As the festive season brings increased consumer activity, the British Virgin Islands Bank Association (BVIBA) has issued a stern reminder to merchants across the territory regarding compliance with card transaction policies.
The association warns that imposing minimum spending requirements or charging additional fees for card payments is not only against their merchant agreements but also violates regulations established by major payment networks, VISA and Mastercard.
The advisory, issued on Wednesday, December 18, warns that merchants engaging in these practices are in breach of their contractual obligations with their respective financial institutions. “We request that all merchants immediately cease these practices to ensure compliance,” the statement read.
The BVIBA comprises several prominent financial institutions, including Bank of Asia (BVI) Limited, CIBC Caribbean, FirstBank PR, National Bank of the Virgin Islands, Popular, Republic Bank (BVI) Limited, and VP Bank (BVI) Limited.
For inquiries or guidance on compliance, the BVIBA advises merchants to contact their respective banks promptly.
Former Legislator Dr Kedrick Pickering Becomes International Best-Selling Author with New Book
FCCA Spreads Holiday Cheer in the British Virgin Islands with Christmas Gift Donation
BVI Bank Association Warns Merchants Against Card Transaction Violations
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