Local News
BVI Welcomes Six American Airlines Flights in One Day, Boosting Tourism
The Government of the Virgin Islands announced on Saturday, February 1, that American Airlines successfully operated six flights to Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport. Officials described the milestone as a reflection of growing confidence in the Territory’s airlift capabilities and its expanding tourism sector.
Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Kye M. Rymer, highlighted the significance of the increased flight operations, stating, “The operation of multiple flights from American Airlines greatly enhances connectivity between the Virgin Islands and the United States, reinforcing the Virgin Islands’ status as a premier Caribbean destination. This increase in air service is expected to facilitate easier access for both visitors and residents, ultimately driving higher travel volumes and stimulating economic activity throughout the region.”
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Communications and Works, Mrs. Elvia Smith-Maduro, emphasized the role of infrastructure development in supporting the growing demand for air travel. “With air travel demand to the Virgin Islands on the rise, enhancing airport facilities is crucial for accommodating future growth,” she said. “The successful operation of these six flights underscores the importance of modernizing infrastructure to welcome more flights and passengers, and supporting the goal of establishing a vibrant year-round tourism industry in the Territory.”
Managing Director for the BVI Airports Authority, Mr. Kurt Menal, described the event as a step forward in the Territory’s airlift strategy. “The operation of these six flights by American Airlines not only marks a significant achievement in airlift capacity but also reflects a strong commitment to fostering economic prosperity in the Virgin Islands,” he said. “This event opens new opportunities for tourism development while reinforcing plans for further airport enhancements to meet increasing demand.”
The Ministry of Communications and Works reaffirmed its commitment to the ongoing development and maintenance of public infrastructure, ensuring that utilities remain reliable and affordable. Officials noted that continued investment in the Territory’s aviation sector is essential for sustaining economic growth and improving connectivity for residents and visitors alike.
As the British Virgin Islands navigate significant governance reforms, residents of Tortola are invited to a Town Hall Meeting on February 4, to discuss changes stemming from the Commission of Inquiry (COI). The meeting, hosted by the Government of the Virgin Islands, will take place from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Maria’s By The Sea.
The forum aims to address key governance issues, including immigration, public assistance, Crown land policies, discretionary powers, statutory boards, and the integrity framework. These topics have been central to ongoing reform efforts following the Commission of Inquiry, which highlighted areas for improvement in public administration.
Government ministers and officials will be in attendance to provide insights into the reforms and answer questions from the public. Officials emphasize that community engagement is crucial in shaping the implementation of these governance changes.
Residents seeking further details about the event can contact the Premier’s Office at 1-284-468-2152 or via email at Premieroffice@gov.vg.
Five delegates from across the Caribbean are set to compete in the inaugural Miss Elegantly Plus Caribbean Queen Pageant. The event will take place on Friday, March 14, at 7 PM at the Eileene L. Parsons Auditorium, H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) in Tortola, British Virgin Islands.
The pageant will feature contestants representing the British Virgin Islands, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Trinidad & Tobago, Antigua & Barbuda, and Turks & Caicos Islands. Each delegate brings experience in pageantry and community representation.
Representing the British Virgin Islands is Sylvanna L. Charles, who was crowned BVI Festival Princess in 2005. Hasanna Graham, Miss US Virgin Islands, previously held the title of Miss Bertha C. Boschulte Middle School in 2012. Mekelia A. Miller, Miss Trinidad & Tobago, won the title of Miss La Reine Rive’ (Miss Best Village) in the 2023 Prime Minister’s Best Village Trophy Competition. Milove J. S. Fontaine, representing Antigua & Barbuda, was crowned Miss Charisma in 2020. Tinell N. Garland, Miss Turks & Caicos Islands, will also compete for the title.
The competition will highlight cultural pride, elegance, and confidence among plus-size women in the region. The winner will be the first to hold the title of Miss Elegantly Plus Caribbean Queen.
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A new book highlighting the work of Virgin Islands writer Ruby A. Smith-Newberry has been released. Ruby’s Writings: Poetry | Drama | Stories, compiled by Arlene Smith-Thompson, Ed.D., presents a collection of poetry, dramatic works, and short stories reflecting on themes of family, education, and society.
Smith-Newberry’s writing captures historical and cultural perspectives from the Virgin Islands, offering insights into the experiences of past generations. Her works document personal and communal narratives, portraying the roles of educators, family members, and societal influences in shaping the region’s development.
The collection brings together various pieces that span different literary forms, preserving Smith-Newberry’s contributions to Caribbean literature. The book serves as a record of her storytelling and the impact of her words on Virgin Islands history and culture.
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Government to Hold Town Hall Meeting on Governance Reforms
BVI Welcomes Six American Airlines Flights in One Day, Boosting Tourism
Five Delegates Vie for First Miss Elegantly Plus Caribbean Queen Title
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