Local News
Virgin Islands to Host Week-Long Celebration Honouring Dame Janice Pereira’s Retirement and Privy Council Appointment
The Government of the Virgin Islands has announced a week-long national celebration in honour of The Right Honourable Dame Janice M. Pereira, marking her retirement as Chief Justice of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court and her recent appointment to His Majesty’s Most Honourable Privy Council.
The celebration, themed “Celebrating Our Radiant Daughter: A Journey from the Virgin Islands to the Privy Council,” will run from 21 to 27 October, featuring 14 public and private events that recognise Dame Janice’s extraordinary legal career and her contributions to the Virgin Islands and the wider Caribbean region.
Premier and Minister of Finance, Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley, highlighted the significance of Dame Janice’s achievements. “The Right Honourable Dame Janice Pereira has had a remarkable career of service to the Virgin Islands and the Caribbean, which is evident through her recent appointment to His Majesty’s Most Honourable Privy Council,” Premier Wheatley stated. “She has set an incredible example for all Virgin Islanders, showing us that with hard work, the sky is not the limit—our only limit is ourselves.”
Dame Janice Pereira’s career began in 1981 when she became one of the first women called to the bar in the Virgin Islands. Her impressive trajectory included appointments as a High Court Judge, a seat on the Court of Appeal, and finally, her historic appointment as Chief Justice of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court in 2012. After 12 years of transformative leadership, she retired from the bench in May 2024.
The celebration in her honour will kick off with a Primetime Special, chronicling Dame Janice’s life and achievements, followed by a week filled with activities such as general knowledge quizzes on ZBVI Radio, school visits, courtesy calls, and a youth-focused brunch. Notably, the public is invited to attend a Special Lecture by Dame Janice Pereira at H. Lavity Stoutt Community College, a Special Sitting of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court at the Multipurpose Sports Complex, and a Celebratory Church Service at the Church of God (Holiness) in North Sound, Virgin Gorda.
The Government of the Virgin Islands extends an open invitation to all residents to participate in the festivities as they celebrate the historic accomplishments of one of the Territory’s most distinguished daughters, Dame Janice M. Pereira.
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.
Local News
Animal Lover Celebrates Birthday by Raising $2,500 for BVI Humane Society
-
Crime/Police1 week ago
Two Charged with Gun Possession Following Vessel Search in Frenchman’s Cay
-
Local News1 week ago
Tola Radio Battles Legal Dispute Over Shutdown, Calls for Public Support
-
Crime/Police2 weeks ago
K’Shawn Martin Wanted for Questioning in Shooting on Sandbox Road
-
Local News2 weeks ago
Virgin Islands Coach Earns Bodybuilding PRO Card in The Bahamas
-
Local News4 days ago
Virgin Islands Doubles Residency Requirement for Belonger Status
-
Entertainment2 weeks ago
Tortola Welcomes Exclusive Japanese Dining at 1748 Sushi Bar
-
Crime/Police3 days ago
Teen Arrested in Connection With Series of Burglaries Across Virgin Islands
-
Education2 days ago
Seven Young Ballers Embark on an Eight-Day Basketball Adventure in Orlando