Local News
BVI Olympic Committee AGM Highlights Positive Trajectory for Sports in the BVI
The BVI Olympic Committee/Commonwealth Games Association convened for its 2023 Annual General Meeting (AGM) on December 7 at the Road Reef Plaza offices in Tortola, unveiling a promising outlook for sports in the British Virgin Islands.
In a gathering attended by members of the BVIOC/BVICGA Executive Committee and representatives of the member National Federations, President Ephraim Penn provided a comprehensive overview of the committee’s activities throughout 2023. This included major events such as the 2023 San Salvador CAC, 2023 Trinbago Commonwealth Youth Games, and Santiago 2023 PanAm Games.
President Penn expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts of National Federations and volunteers, acknowledging their dedication and hard work in contributing to the significant progress made in various sports. “We’ve witnessed impressive strides in athletics, squash, and volleyball, and look forward to hosting notable regional and national tournaments in 2024,” remarked President Penn.
The BVIOC/BVICGA annual report covered a spectrum of topics, ranging from updates on the BVI National Anti-Doping Commission to insights from the International Olympic Committee, PanAm Sports, and Commonwealth Games Federation. Treasurer Mark Chapman presented financial statements, shedding light on grants available through Olympic Solidarity and Panam Sports.
Gloria Leola Fahie, Member at Large, shared updates on the Women in Sports Commission, emphasizing the committee’s commitment to fostering gender equality in sports. New recruit Mrs. Sophia Brewely-Massiah, set to become the Office Manager in January 2024, discussed the upcoming Safeguarding program.
Athlete Representative and BVIOC Athletes’ Commission Chair, Ashley Kelly OLY, announced the 1st Annual Athletes Forum & Sports Psychology Workshop scheduled for December 16 at the Multipurpose Complex.
Representatives from National Federations, including Archery, Athletics, Cycling, Football, Rugby, Sailing, Softball-Baseball, Squash, Taekwondo, Tennis, and Triathlon, shared their annual reports, underlining the collective commitment to sports development.
President Ephraim Penn and Secretary General Lloyd Black are set to attend The USOC / Panam Sports Athlete 5th Americas Best Practice Symposium on December 9-10 in Miami. Meanwhile, track and field athlete Deya Erickson will represent the BVI at the Panam Sports Awards event on December 9.
Looking ahead, the focus turns to the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics, scheduled for July 26 – August 11 in France, where Tahesia Harrigan-Scott OLY will once again serve as the Chef de Mission, steering BVI’s representation at the international sporting event.
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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