Entertainment
FCCA Spreads Holiday Cheer in the British Virgin Islands with Christmas Gift Donation

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.
Entertainment
BVI Competes at Subzonal 2.3.3 Chess Championships in Trinidad and Tobago

The British Virgin Islands is participating in the Subzonal 2.3.3 Absolute and Women’s Chess Championships, taking place from April 11 to 18 at the Cascadia Hotel and Conference Center in St. Ann’s, Trinidad and Tobago.
The tournament, sanctioned by the World Chess Federation (FIDE), brings together players from across the Caribbean and parts of Central America, including representatives from Antigua & Barbuda, Aruba, The Bahamas, Barbados, Curaçao, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, and others.
Representing the BVI in the Absolute Section are Simon Potter and Jordan Hinds. In the Women’s Section, Alexis Ganigan and Tiandra Scatliffe are competing. The event is organized by the Trinidad and Tobago Chess Association in conjunction with the Confederation of Chess for the Americas (CCA).
The Subzonal tournament serves as a qualifier for future zonal and continental events under the FIDE calendar. According to the TTCA, this year’s competition includes nine rounds under classical time control and follows international pairing standards.
Updates and full standings are available via the official tournament website at chesstt.org.
Entertainment
Premier Wheatley Presents Top Award at BVI Spring Regatta

Premier Hon. Natalio D. Wheatley was on hand Sunday to present the Guy Eldridge Spirit of Enthusiasm Award to Jim Vos, skipper of Warthog, in recognition of his dedication to youth sailing in the Virgin Islands.
The award was one of the highlights of the final day of the 52nd BVI Spring Regatta, which wrapped up a week of racing on the waters of the Sir Francis Drake Channel.
While the early part of the week saw strong winds and challenging conditions, sailors were treated to classic Caribbean weather for the finale—sunny skies, steady breeze, and warm temperatures.
Despite the tough start, most crews found their rhythm and stayed consistent through the final races. The mix of international and local talent made for a strong showing across the board.
The regatta closed out with a lively celebration at the Regatta Village—sailors, supporters, and organizers coming together to toast another successful year on the water.
Full list of class winners:
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Warthog – Jim Vos (ANT)
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El Ocaso – Tony Mack (GBR)
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Huey Too – Bernie Evan-Wong (ANT)
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Bravissimo – Mike Feierabend (USVI)
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Painkiller/Sea-Battical – Alice Martin (USA)
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Jitterbug – Dr. Robin Tattersall (BVI)
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La Novia – Georges Coutu (DOM)
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Layla – Andrew Anne (GBR)
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Ting A Ling – Graham Harney (BVI)
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Cricket – Sandy Mair (BVI)
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Flying Jenny – Sandy Askew (USA)
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Entertainment
Virgin Islands Artist Ouida Releases Feel-Good Reggae Anthem ‘Everyday’
Virgin Islands-based singer-songwriter Ouida has once again partnered with renowned LA producer and songwriter, Andrew Scott (Druski), to release her latest single, “Everyday.” The vibrant, reggae-infused track, which dropped on April 5, delivers a compelling blend of soulful vocals, infectious rhythms, and an empowering message of resilience, positivity, and gratitude.
“Everyday” opens with an optimistic tone as Ouida sings, “Woke up with a smile on my face, the sun is shining, I’m soaking up the rays.” This sunny sentiment sets the stage for a track that celebrates the beauty of life, no matter the challenges we face. As Ouida explained, the song’s core message is about embracing every moment with gratitude: “No matter what the weatherman says, I’m gonna smile. It’s about finding joy in the everyday and pushing through whatever comes your way.”
The song’s smooth reggae groove and infectious chorus quickly capture the listener’s attention, with the hook—“Everyday, hey, hey, hey”—serving as an uplifting anthem of joy. The track exudes a carefree spirit, echoing the boundless energy of a child’s imagination. “I feel like a child, though it sounds strange, imagination’s wild with possibilities,” Ouida sings, inviting listeners to tap into life’s limitless potential.
Building on her growing reputation for heartfelt lyrics and melodic storytelling, Ouida continues to solidify her place in the music industry with “Everyday.” Her previous works have resonated deeply with audiences, thanks to their relatable themes and emotional depth.
Beyond its infectious rhythm, “Everyday” carries a deeper message of perseverance. In the third verse, Ouida reflects on overcoming adversity, singing, “Every test and trial made me who I am today. Even when I’m tired, you will never catch me break.” This theme of resilience weaves throughout the track, making it not only an anthem of joy but also one of strength and determination.
With its smooth reggae instrumentation, uplifting message, and Ouida’s captivating vocals, “Everyday” serves as a perfect Caribbean anthem that radiates positivity. As the song makes its way to streaming platforms, fans can expect an energetic and heartfelt experience that encourages them to approach each day with renewed optimism.
“Everyday” is sure to resonate with audiences looking for a soundtrack to inspire resilience and embrace the joy of living fully, no matter what obstacles lie ahead.
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