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  • Animal Lover Celebrates Birthday by Raising $2,500 for BVI Humane Society || Tola Radio Battles Legal Dispute Over Shutdown, Calls for Public Support. ||. BVI Returns to OECS Swimming Championships, Secures Silver Medal. ||. Government Offices To Open at 11 am To Allow For Flood Cleanup And Inspections. || ADVERTISEMENT: Need a banner in a hurry? Look no further than JAHPHIX DESIGNS. Our high-quality banners can be delivered to you in 24 hours or less. Tel: (284) 340-1995 or email us at mail@jahphix.com ||
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Sailing Towards Glory: Thad Lettsome Ready for Paris 2024 Olympics

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Thad Lettsome is set to represent the British Virgin Islands at the 2024 Paris Olympics. This achievement marks the culmination of years of dedication and hard work. When asked about his feelings, Thad shared, “It feels amazing to have achieved my goal. It’s incredibly satisfying as it demonstrates that hard work pays off.”

Thad first heard the news from his mother during a FaceTime call. “She FaceTimed me one day, which I thought was quite strange, and without any warning, shared the news with me. I then shared it with my brother, other immediate family, and my coaches,” he recounted, still buzzing with excitement.

With his Olympics debut on the horizon, Thad’s primary goal is to “leave it on the water and do everything I can to put the BVI flag ahead of as many others as possible.” He aims to ensure good starts in each race and to sail strategically smart upwinds. “I have been working hard at these aspects of the races with my coaches and training partners,” he added, his determination evident.

As he gears up for his races, Thad anticipates that the most challenging aspect will be the ability of all sailors to “come back” from bad positions due to their speed and experience. He plans to manage this by breaking the fleet down into smaller groups and focusing on staying ahead of the boats around him. His strategic approach showcases his tactical acumen and readiness for the high-stakes competition.

To prepare for the Laser class, Thad has focused intensely on fitness and proper preparation and recovery. He emphasises the physical nature of the Laser class, stating that it is “notoriously physical.” His rigorous training regimen reflects his commitment to peak performance.

Thad credits his coaches, including Brenda Bowskill, for being instrumental in his development and preparation. “Brenda supplements my training with technical advice, while my main coach, Chris Watters, provides overall structure, guidance, and support,” he said. The support from his coaches has been invaluable in refining his skills and boosting his confidence.

Balancing training with academics has been challenging, but Thad has received support from coaches, parents, and school staff. He graduated from Tabor Academy in 2020 and Tulane University in 2024. “It is certainly difficult to do both, but I’m assisted by coaches, my parents, staff at school, and others,” he explained, highlighting the teamwork that has been crucial to his success.

He plans to apply all the skill and knowledge he has acquired over the past 13 years and do his very best at the Olympics. “It is easy to stay focused when one is so eager to apply what they have learned and demonstrate their skill,” he noted, his excitement palpable.

The sailor is particularly looking forward to being among many people who have excelled in their fields and is excited about the opening ceremony. “Outside of competition, I’m certainly looking forward to the opening ceremony,” he shared, his enthusiasm infectious.

Managing the mental and physical pressures of the Olympics, Thad believes that staying focused on his goal of competing hard and applying what he has learned will help him manage the pressures. “Staying focused on my goal will prevent me from succumbing to pressure,” he said with determination.

Having raced against a majority of the fleet at various regattas, Thad plans to emphasise the importance of a good start in each race. “It will be crucial to try to get ahead from early as there will likely be fewer opportunities to pass competitors in such a small fleet,” he explained, showcasing his tactical insight.

Thad is currently focused on the task at hand but acknowledges that the Olympic experience will better him as a sailor regardless of what he chooses to do next. “The Olympics are an invaluable experience that will certainly better me as a sailor,” he said, looking forward to future challenges.

He sees great potential for sailing in the BVI and hopes his qualification will inspire youths and parents to embrace the nautical side of their culture. “I hope that my qualification for the games can serve as an inspiration to youths and parents alike,” he stated, his passion for sailing evident.

Qualifying for the Olympics has reinforced Thad’s belief that anything is possible through hard work and dedication. His family has been his main supporters throughout his journey. “My family and friends were ecstatic and proud upon hearing the news,” he shared, grateful for their unwavering support.

Thad encourages young athletes to find someone to train with and push them. “Never turn down an opportunity as you don’t know where it will lead,” he advised. He also emphasises the importance of envisioning oneself achieving their goals. “As long as you can see yourself achieving your goals, it doesn’t matter what others think,” he concluded, inspiring the next generation of athletes.

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Animal Lover Celebrates Birthday by Raising $2,500 for BVI Humane Society

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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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Virgin Islands Doubles Residency Requirement for Belonger Status

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The Immigration and Passport (Amendment) Act, 2024, signed into law by Governor Daniel Pruce on November 1, introduces significant changes to the Territory’s immigration policies. Among the most notable amendments is the doubling of the residency requirement for individuals seeking Belonger status, extending the period from ten to twenty years.

The legislation also establishes an Immigration Appeals Board to handle challenges and disputes, reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing the transparency and accountability of the immigration process. Premier Natalio Wheatley described the amendments as a step forward in refining the system. “We are committed to ensuring that the process is transparent and equitab

Governor Daniel Pruce

le,” the Premier said in a statement. 

While the new law introduces robust measures to regulate and manage immigration, it has drawn mixed reactions. One key point of contention is the lack of new pathways for children born in the Virgin Islands to non-Belonger parents. Critics argue that this omission leaves a gap in addressing a demographic often caught in legal limbo.

The amended law also tasks a newly created Quota Setting Committee with advising the Board of Immigration on annual quotas for residence and Belonger certificates. This ensures that quotas align with the Territory’s capacity and strategic objectives.

However, the law is not yet in effect. It will commence on a date to be announced by the Premier in the official Gazette. Applications submitted before this date will be processed under the previous legal framework, providing clarity for those already in the system.

The government has framed these changes as part of its broader strategy to ensure sustainable growth and prosperity for the Virgin Islands. “These amendments are designed to support the Territory’s long-term goals while maintaining fairness for all residents,” a government statement emphasised.

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Tola Radio Battles Legal Dispute Over Shutdown, Calls for Public Support

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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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