Local News
Cape Air Unveils Striking New Livery Celebrating the Spirit of the Caribbean
In celebration of the natural beauty of the Caribbean and Cape Air’s deep-rooted presence in the region, the airline unveiled a striking new livery on 13 November on one of its Britten-Norman Islander aircraft.
Introduced in San Juan, this vibrant design will soon be seen on flights to Virgin Gorda and Culebra, bringing a fresh burst of colour and symbolism to mark Cape Air’s 35th anniversary in aviation.
The livery pays thoughtful tribute to the spirit of the Caribbean, featuring iconic imagery that represents both the airline’s core values and the cultural heritage of the region. At the centre of the design is a large sea turtle, symbolising Cape Air’s resilience and connection to the Caribbean. The turtle, known to represent endurance, adaptability, and patience, reflects the journey of an airline that has served Caribbean passengers for decades. Cape Air’s CEO, Linda Markham, highlighted this connection, stating, “The sea turtle represents our long-standing commitment to the Caribbean, where we’ve grown alongside the communities we serve.”
In addition to the turtle, the design features hibiscus flowers in bright hues, evoking the joy and sunshine characteristic of Caribbean life. Representing good fortune, the hibiscus mirrors Cape Air’s optimistic outlook for the future. “As we celebrate our 35th anniversary, this flower symbolises the hope and prosperity that guide us forward,” said Markham.
The livery also includes a dynamic school of fish, a nod to teamwork and unity, which Cape Air says forms the foundation of its approach to service. Few places foster such a strong sense of community as the Caribbean, where Cape Air has long prided itself on close ties with local markets and passengers. “The school of fish reminds us that our strength lies in our collective efforts – from our dedicated team to the passengers who trust us to connect them with the places they love,” Markham noted.
These anniversary celebrations are not only about aesthetics but also serve as a reaffirmation of Cape Air’s commitment to the Caribbean. Since its establishment, the airline has woven itself into the fabric of local life, building partnerships with tourism boards, small businesses, and communities in the territories it serves. The Britten-Norman Islander aircraft, small yet versatile, embodies this adaptability and accessibility, making it the ideal canvas for such a tribute.
Passengers fortunate enough to board this special aircraft will be treated to an enhanced travel experience as they connect with destinations like Virgin Gorda and Culebra. Cape Air hopes this symbolic livery will serve as both a celebration of Caribbean culture and a reminder of the region’s unique natural beauty.
After an eight-year hiatus, the British Virgin Islands (BVI) Swimming Federation returned to the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Swimming Championships with a six-member team at the 32nd annual event held from November 8–10 at the Shrewsbury Aquatic Center in St. Vincent & the Grenadines. This marked BVI’s first appearance since 2016, following setbacks from Hurricane Irma in 2017 that impacted athletic infrastructure and development programs.
Representing the BVI were Jai Potter (15-17), Kyla Potter (11-12), Arun Bissoondutt (9-10), Naya Bissoondutt (8 & Under), Skyler Steer (8 & Under), and William Vergel (8 & Under). Under the guidance of Coach Elsworth Phillip, the young athletes held their own against teams from 11 other territories including reigning champions Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, and host nation St. Vincent & the Grenadines.
A standout performance was delivered by Kyla Potter, who claimed a silver medal in the 11-12 Girls 50m Butterfly with a time of 32.16, just 0.5 seconds shy of the gold. This impressive finish highlighted her potential among the region’s top young swimmers. Additionally, Kyla placed 4th in the 100m Butterfly, 6th in the 50m Breaststroke, and achieved competitive rankings across other events.
run Bissoondutt earned 9th place finishes in the 9-10 Boys 50m Backstroke and 100m Freestyle, while Skyler Steer placed in the top 10 in multiple events for the 8 & Under Girls, including an 8th place finish in the 25m Backstroke. William Vergel, competing in the 8 & Under Boys, placed 10th in the 25m Freestyle. Additionally, the team’s 10 & Under mixed 200m Freestyle relay, featuring Arun, Naya, Skyler, and William, secured a respectable 5th place.
At the conclusion of the championships, Antigua and Barbuda claimed their third consecutive OECS title with 1,419 points, followed by Grenada with 1,301.5 points and St. Vincent and the Grenadines with 1,102 points. The BVI finished in 7th place overall, earning 37 points, and celebrated this opportunity to renew its presence in regional swimming after years of rebuilding efforts.
Coach Phillip praised the athletes for their dedication, stating, “Our swimmers have demonstrated commendable focus and resilience. Kyla’s silver medal is a significant achievement and reflects the promising direction of our program.”
The election took place on Friday, 18 October, during the ANOCES General Assembly at the luxurious Sandals Beaches Resort in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands. Penn’s years of dedicated service to the Olympic movement, coupled with his strong leadership vision, played a significant role in his election.
Penn’s appointment heralds a renewed emphasis on regional collaboration within the Olympic framework. Upon accepting the role, he shared his aspirations for the organisation:
“I am honoured to serve as President of ANOCES, and I look forward to working closely with my colleagues in the Eastern Caribbean to advance sports development, support our athletes, and further promote the Olympic ideals,” Penn remarked. “Together, we will build a stronger and more unified sports community in the region.”
Under Penn’s leadership, the British Virgin Islands has seen transformative growth in both grassroots and elite sports, particularly in track and field, where the region has consistently outperformed on the international stage.
Penn will be joined by a team of experienced sports administrators. Dominica’s Billy Doctrove, a prominent figure in Caribbean sports and President of the Dominica NOC, has been elected Vice President of ANOCES. Additional key appointments include:
- Keith Joseph (St Vincent and the Grenadines) – General Secretary
- Glenville Jeffers (St Kitts and Nevis) – Treasurer
- Cliff Williams (Antigua and Barbuda) – Committee Member
With this experienced leadership, ANOCES is poised to continue strengthening the Olympic movement and supporting athletes across the Eastern Caribbean.
The ANOCES team has a packed agenda, with their next meeting scheduled in Panama City, Panama, from 12 to 14 November 2024. This gathering will coincide with the Centennial Celebration of Centro Caribe Sport (CCS), formerly the Central American and Caribbean Sports Organisation (CACSO).
The summit in Panama City will offer ANOCES members a platform to discuss strategic priorities for the future. “This is a pivotal time for our region as we chart a path toward greater inclusivity and innovation in sports development,” said Billy Doctrove, the newly elected Vice President.
Sports administrators across the region have expressed optimism about the new leadership. “Ephraim Penn has consistently shown a remarkable ability to unite people and achieve ambitious goals,” commented Keith Joseph, General Secretary of ANOCES. “His vision and commitment will be crucial as we face the challenges and opportunities ahead.”
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) is seeking assistance from the public in locating K’Shawn Martin, 18, who is wanted for questioning in connection with a recent shooting incident. Martin, described as 5’9” with a slim build, dark skin, and black hair, is being linked to the attempted murder of K’zhari Stoutt, which took place on Friday, November 8, 2024, on Sand Box Road.
Authorities report that Martin, last known to reside in the Sand Box Road area, may be armed and is considered dangerous. The RVIPF warns the public not to approach Martin if seen and instead urges anyone with information to come forward.
In addition to the search for Martin, police are also requesting information regarding the whereabouts of another individual, Shemoi Carey, who is also sought by the RVIPF’s Criminal Investigation Department. Tips can be directed to RVIPF’s CID at 368-5323. All information will be treated with strict confidentiality.
BVI Returns to OECS Swimming Championships, Secures Silver Medal
Cape Air Unveils Striking New Livery Celebrating the Spirit of the Caribbean
Ephraim Penn Elected President of Eastern Caribbean Olympic Association
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