Local News
Annill Daniel Assumes Presidency of the Rotary Club of Central Tortola
– Past District Governor Vance Lewis Honoured
The Rotary Club of Central Tortola (RCCT) has inducted Annill Daniel as President for the 2024/2025 Rotary Year. Daniel steps into the role following the successful tenure of Sanjay Surtani, who now serves as the Immediate Past President.
In his inaugural address, Daniel expressed gratitude to all RCCT members for their unwavering commitment and contributions, emphasising the collective growth and success that define the spirit of Rotary excellence. “We embark on this journey together, poised to make a meaningful impact on our community and beyond,” he remarked. “It is through our combined efforts that we will achieve extraordinary results.”
The Rotary Club also introduced its newly elected Board of Directors, a distinguished group of seasoned professionals bringing extensive corporate experience and a fervent passion for community service in the Virgin Islands. The incoming board members include:
- President-Elect: Zoe Walcott
- Immediate Past President: Sanjay Surtani
- Secretary: Gaelle Maduro
- Treasurer: Andrae Adams
- Sergeant-at-Arms: Claude Skelton-Cline
- Directors: PDG Vance Lewis, PP Nelcia St. Jean, PP Shan Mohamed, Shaquilla Smith, Laura Greces, Andrae Adams
The evening also honoured two exceptional Rotarians for their stellar contributions and achievements. Past District Governor Vance Lewis received the prestigious Rotary International Citation Award for achieving Major Donor Level 2, a recognition granted to individuals who have donated over $25,000 to The Rotary Foundation. Lewis’s generosity and dedication have profoundly impacted the community and beyond.
Additionally, Rotarian Vajendra Bharat was named Rotarian of the Year for the 2023-2024 term, celebrating his outstanding commitment and contributions to the club’s mission. Bharat exemplifies Rotary’s core values, embodying the spirit of “service above self” in every endeavour. His unwavering dedication and exemplary service inspire all and strengthen the Rotary community’s fabric.
The Rotary Club of Central Tortola extends its congratulations to Annill Daniel on assuming the presidency and expresses profound gratitude to Sanjay Surtani for his invaluable service as Immediate Past President. The successful installation of President Annill Daniel and the entire board for the 2024/25 term was celebrated at the Installation Cocktails event at Coco Maya, Virgin Gorda. The event, set against a stunning beach backdrop with vibrant “Beach Chic” attire, was a night to remember.
A heartfelt thank you was extended to everyone who attended and made the evening special. From the ferry’s departure to the wonderful conversations, delicious food, and refreshing cocktails, the event was a testament to the magic of Rotary and the spirit of community service.
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.
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.
In an inspiring act of generosity, Russ Roschman, an avid animal lover, marked his birthday in an extraordinary way—by dedicating it to the furry residents of the BVI Humane Society. Instead of accepting gifts, Roschman launched a GoFundMe campaign that raised an impressive $2,500 for the shelter.
Roschman spent the day with the shelter’s animals, earning the gratitude of staff and the community alike. The funds raised will be directed toward the running costs of the current shelter, providing vital resources to care for the animals.
The BVI Humane Society, in a heartfelt post, expressed their appreciation, calling Roschman an “amazing animal lover” and extending a “big furball thanks” for his kindness.
This act of selflessness shines a light on the ongoing needs of shelters like the BVI Humane Society, which rely on donations and community support to provide essential care for animals in need. Roschman’s gesture is a reminder of the impact individuals can make, one paw at a time.
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Animal Lover Celebrates Birthday by Raising $2,500 for BVI Humane Society
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