The legacy of the late educator and creative writer Ruby Smith-Newberry will be celebrated on Sunday, 23rd February, at 3:30 p.m. at the C.B. Romney Tortola Pier Park lawn.

The event will mark the official launch of Ruby’s Writings, a collection of poetry, drama, and short stories by Smith-Newberry, and will feature a programme of performances and tributes from those inspired by her work.

Smith-Newberry, remembered for her contributions to education, the performing arts, and literature in the BVI, left a lasting impact on generations of students and artists. In recognition of her influence, the event will showcase performances by some of her protégés, alongside noted local and international artists.

The programme will feature performances by vocalist Ashaala Shanae, singer Donna Clyne, and a roster of artists including Gia Fraser, Kendra Penn, Kyle Moses, Sylvanna Charles & her dancers, Thea Cooke & company, Kay-Linda Richardson, Toyer Fahie, and Elmore Stoutt. Readings from Ruby’s Writings will be presented by esteemed author and personal friend, Dr. Pat Turnbull.

The event will also include testimonials from individuals whose lives were shaped by Smith-Newberry’s mentorship and dedication to education and the arts.

In addition to honouring Smith-Newberry’s literary contributions, the event will introduce The Rubystone Foundation BVI, a non-profit organisation dedicated to philanthropy, youth empowerment, and the promotion of inclusivity and the creative and performing arts.

The celebration is open to the public, and attendees are encouraged to bring family and friends to commemorate Smith-Newberry’s enduring influence on the BVI’s cultural landscape.

For more information, contact Dr. Arlene Smith-Thompson at 284-346-9777.

PAW BVI, a nonprofit dedicated to animal welfare in the British Virgin Islands, is approaching a significant milestone with nearly 5,000 spay and neuter surgeries completed since its founding in 2014.

The organisation, which provides free spay/neuter services for owned pets and operates a Trap-Neuter-Release (TNR) program for feral cats, has played a key role in reducing the number of stray and abandoned animals across the territory. PAW BVI partners with local veterinary clinics, including Canines, Cats & Critters and Happy Pets Vet, to carry out these procedures.

By preventing the birth of unwanted litters, PAW BVI aims to curb animal overpopulation, ease overcrowding at the Humane Society of the BVI, and address public health and environmental concerns.

“This milestone is a testament to the dedication of our team, volunteers, and supporters,” said Natasha Ruscheinski, Founder and President of PAW BVI. “Every surgery performed brings us closer to a future where animals in the BVI are healthier and better cared for.”

Beyond spay/neuter efforts, PAW BVI engages in rescue and rehabilitation, community education on responsible pet ownership, and a foster and adoption program. Through its “PAWS in the Air” initiative, the organization has facilitated the relocation of rescued animals to new homes in the United States.

The organisation’s work has contributed to a decline in stray populations, reducing incidents of abandoned animals and improving overall animal welfare. PAW BVI credits its success to the ongoing support of donors, veterinary partners, and local pet owners who have opted for responsible sterilization of their pets.

As the group nears its 5,000th surgery, it invites the community to take part in the achievement. More information on PAW BVI’s initiatives, services, and ways to contribute can be found at pawbvi.org or by contacting pawbvi@gmail.com.