Local News
Territory’s Centenarians Honoured for Resilience and Wisdom on National Centenarian Day
The Social Development Department of the British Virgin Islands (BVI) paid tribute to the Territory’s remarkable centenarians for their resilience, wisdom, and resourcefulness in celebrating National Centenarian Day on Friday, September 22.
Among those honoured were Mrs. Enelle Smith and Mrs. Emogene A. Creque, both 104 years old, and Mr. Evelyn Hodge, aged 100, residing on Tortola. Additionally, Mrs. Betty Yates, aged 101, Mrs. Floresa George, and Mrs. Iris L. Harrigan, both aged 100, from Virgin Gorda were recognized by the department.
Chief Social Development Officer, Mrs. Annie Malone-Frett, expressed admiration and respect for the centenarians, stating that the gifts presented to them were carefully selected to reflect their favorite items and acknowledge their longevity and ability to navigate the ups and downs of life.
“This is but a small token intended to celebrate their collective resilience, wisdom, and resourcefulness having experienced life’s joys and sorrows for a century and beyond,” Mrs. Malone-Frett said. “As a Territory, we extend heartfelt gratitude for their unwavering faith and contributions to the socio-economic and political developments of the Territory through their differing roles.”
Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Vincent Wheatley, accompanied the team to the homes of the six honorees as part of the day’s activities. Honourable Wheatley distributed gift baskets and conveyed well wishes, love, hope, and blessings.
“It was an honour and privilege to be in the presence of these centenarians, three of whom I know personally and who live on Virgin Gorda,” Honourable Wheatley said. He emphasized the importance of respecting and caring for the elders, recognizing their role as the foundation on which society stands.
National Centenarian Day serves as a celebration of the remarkable lives and contributions of individuals who have reached the incredible milestone of living for a century and beyond. It also provides an opportunity for society to express collective gratitude and respect for their wisdom, experience, and cultural legacy.
The Ministry of Health and Social Development remains committed to strengthening social protection policies and programs aimed at reducing poverty and inequality while improving economic security in the Virgin Islands.
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.
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.
In an inspiring act of generosity, Russ Roschman, an avid animal lover, marked his birthday in an extraordinary way—by dedicating it to the furry residents of the BVI Humane Society. Instead of accepting gifts, Roschman launched a GoFundMe campaign that raised an impressive $2,500 for the shelter.
Roschman spent the day with the shelter’s animals, earning the gratitude of staff and the community alike. The funds raised will be directed toward the running costs of the current shelter, providing vital resources to care for the animals.
The BVI Humane Society, in a heartfelt post, expressed their appreciation, calling Roschman an “amazing animal lover” and extending a “big furball thanks” for his kindness.
This act of selflessness shines a light on the ongoing needs of shelters like the BVI Humane Society, which rely on donations and community support to provide essential care for animals in need. Roschman’s gesture is a reminder of the impact individuals can make, one paw at a time.
Seven Young Ballers Embark on an Eight-Day Basketball Adventure in Orlando
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Animal Lover Celebrates Birthday by Raising $2,500 for BVI Humane Society
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