Local News
“The British Virgin Islands Takes the Show on the Road with Fall Tourism Roadshows
The British Virgin Islands is gearing up for a series of exciting tourism roadshows this fall. The Business Development Team of the British Virgin Islands Tourist Board & Film Commission (BVITBFC) will be taking their show on the road to Fort Lauderdale, Florida and New York, New York in October.
On October 10th, the BVITBFC, along with their tourism industry partners, will be hosting a roadshow at The Diplomat Beach Resort in Fort Lauderdale. The event will feature presentations from top travel advisors, showcasing what’s new and exciting in the British Virgin Islands. Partners such as Guana Island, Virgin Gorda Villa Rentals, The Moorings, and Virgin Hotel Collection will be in attendance, providing valuable insights into the destination.
The roadshow will then move to New York City on October 11th, where it will be held at Virgin Hotels New York City. The BVITBFC and their partners will once again present to key travel advisors, highlighting why the British Virgin Islands should be their clients’ number one choice. The evening event will also include live entertainment and a special recognition for the travel advisors who have been the top sellers of British Virgin Islands travel.
Delma Maduro, Chairman of the BVITBFC, will be attending both roadshows, emphasizing the importance of these face-to-face meetings with travel advisors. This will be the first time the BVITBFC has had the opportunity to meet advisors in person since the pandemic, and they are eager to express their gratitude for their commitment to selling the destination.
Perla George, Director of Business Development in North America, explained the purpose of the roadshows, stating, “We are excited to meet our top-producing travel advisors and share the latest developments in the destination. These roadshows are a testament to our continued partnership and commitment to a robust tourism industry.”
The British Virgin Islands roadshows promise to be informative and engaging events, providing travel advisors with valuable insights into the destination. With their industry partners by their side, the BVITBFC is ready to showcase all that the British Virgin Islands has to offer and solidify their position as a top choice for travelers.
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.
The Immigration and Passport (Amendment) Act, 2024, signed into law by Governor Daniel Pruce on November 1, introduces significant changes to the Territory’s immigration policies. Among the most notable amendments is the doubling of the residency requirement for individuals seeking Belonger status, extending the period from ten to twenty years.
The legislation also establishes an Immigration Appeals Board to handle challenges and disputes, reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing the transparency and accountability of the immigration process. Premier Natalio Wheatley described the amendments as a step forward in refining the system. “We are committed to ensuring that the process is transparent and equitab
Governor Daniel Pruce
le,” the Premier said in a statement.
While the new law introduces robust measures to regulate and manage immigration, it has drawn mixed reactions. One key point of contention is the lack of new pathways for children born in the Virgin Islands to non-Belonger parents. Critics argue that this omission leaves a gap in addressing a demographic often caught in legal limbo.
The amended law also tasks a newly created Quota Setting Committee with advising the Board of Immigration on annual quotas for residence and Belonger certificates. This ensures that quotas align with the Territory’s capacity and strategic objectives.
However, the law is not yet in effect. It will commence on a date to be announced by the Premier in the official Gazette. Applications submitted before this date will be processed under the previous legal framework, providing clarity for those already in the system.
The government has framed these changes as part of its broader strategy to ensure sustainable growth and prosperity for the Virgin Islands. “These amendments are designed to support the Territory’s long-term goals while maintaining fairness for all residents,” a government statement emphasised.
Teen Arrested in Connection With Series of Burglaries Across Virgin Islands
Animal Lover Celebrates Birthday by Raising $2,500 for BVI Humane Society
Virgin Islands Doubles Residency Requirement for Belonger Status
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