AGP Executive Report

Food Safety & Health: Environmental Health Officer Susan Sealey says cleaning and sanitation are the biggest daily problems in VI food establishments, urging people to check hygiene, handwashing, pests, and overall cleanliness before buying. Tourism & Youth: Mary Joseph of the BVI Seventh-day Adventist School won VI’s new Junior Ambassador of Tourism, pitching “TAG: Target. Authenticate. Guide” to use Instagram and TikTok to promote the islands year-round. Courts & Community Safety: A Broward judge heard sharply conflicting testimony in a domestic-violence injunction case involving former VI senator Janelle Sarauw; the matter continues Friday. Street Life & Events: VIPD announced no-parking and traffic reroutes for Christiansted PRIDE Parade (June 6) and Frederiksted Women’s Race (June 7). Sustainable Tourism Spotlight: The VI team won the 2026 CTO Regional Nex-Gen Tourism Showcase for a “Green & Blue Economy Tourism Hub” concept linking marine restoration with conservation-funded tourism. Hurricane Readiness: Hon. Kye M. Rymer urged preparedness as the Atlantic season starts, citing drain clearing, vegetation management, infrastructure checks, and stronger emergency alert systems. Public Service Training: CXC and the VI government launched a new Excellence in Customer Service programme to improve service delivery across the public sector. Sports & Culture: VG Bayside Blazers bounced back in King of the Courts, crushing St Croix 100–79 on Night 2. Local Security: Shakhoy Penn was charged after a Road Town firearm recovery, the RVIPF reporting a Glock 17 and ammunition seized during a rapid response. Women’s Pageantry: Miss BVI 2026 contestants were set to be featured in “Crown & Conversations” on Facebook Live ahead of the August 2 pageant.

Public Service Upgrade: CXC and the Virgin Islands launched the Excellence in Customer Service programme on June 3, rolling out multi-level training with VIPSLI and Customer 1st Caribbean to improve how government serves residents. Workforce Pathways: UVI’s Medical Simulation Center was added to the U.S. Virgin Islands Eligible Training Provider List, unlocking WIOA funding for EMT training; 10 graduates completed Cohort 2 with strong certification momentum. Local Safety & Crime: Shakhoy Penn was charged in Tortola with possession of a prohibited firearm and unlawful possession of explosives after a Road Town response recovered a Glock 17 and ammunition. Community & Culture Spotlight: Miss BVI 2026 contestants were set to be featured in “Crown & Conversations” via Facebook Live, with the pageant scheduled for Aug. 2. Sports: VG Bayside Blazers bounced back in the King of the Courts, blasting St Croix 100–79 on Night 2. Food & Fuel Worries: Pastor Claude O. Skelton-Cline warned of looming energy and food supply strain, urging residents and leaders to prepare.

Sports & Community Pride: The Virgin Islands men’s national team was blanked 4-0 by Gibraltar in a friendly at Europa Point on June 3, then turns its focus to a June 6 match against Europa FC in Málaga. Health Priorities: Health Minister Vincent O. Wheatley says the Premier’s State of the Territory Address should spotlight health infrastructure progress and what the government will do about derelicts. Faith & Food Security Warnings: Pastor Claude O. Skelton-Cline urged preparedness for an “energy lockdown” and warned of a food-insecurity squeeze tied to shipping disruptions. Local Governance & Public Service: Acting Governor Roach marked the 36th Annual Employee of the Year ceremony on St. Croix, praising public workers who keep services moving. Workplace Fairness: The Police Welfare Association says delayed compensation and unresolved pay gaps for officers “will no longer be tolerated.” Business & Networking: BVICC’s “Meet the Members Series” is set for June 4. Policy Planning: Hon. Lorna G. Smith says the VI needs an AI policy as digital transformation accelerates. Tourism Outlook: A VI Tourism Summit is planned for June 10–11 on Peter Island, aiming to align stakeholders around sustainable growth.

Public Service Spotlight: Acting Governor Tregenza A. Roach marked the 36th Annual Employee of the Year ceremony on St. Croix, praising the territory’s civil servants for reliability and care that reaches families, students, and road users. AI Readiness for VI: Hon. Lorna G. Smith, OBE, says the Virgin Islands needs a clear AI policy as part of digital transformation and business revitalization efforts, including recent entrepreneur training. Business Networking: The BVI Chamber of Commerce’s “Meet the Members Series” returns June 4 in Road Town, inviting members and prospective businesses to connect and learn about BVICC support. Sports & Community: The VI men’s national team plays Gibraltar today in a Europe training camp, with another friendly set for June 6 in Spain; in the BVI, rugby continues to grow with a BVI vs USVI Privateers match June 6 at A.O. Shirley Recreation Grounds. Tourism Planning Ahead: The VI Tourism Summit opens June 10 on Peter Island, bringing together tourism stakeholders to shape a national policy direction. Food Security Talk: Pastor Claude O. Skelton-Cline warns of food insecurity pressures tied to import dependence and shipping disruptions, urging action from the system that moves goods. Youth & Health: Soca artist J’versatile urges youth to avoid drugs after a near-fatal reaction to marijuana edibles, sharing his “flatlining” hospital experience.

Tourism & Culture: The Virgin Islands Tourism Summit 2026 is set for June 10–11 at Peter Island Resort, bringing together regional and international tourism leaders to align on sustainable growth and resilience. Local Business & Skills: Twenty-six entrepreneurs graduated from the Entrepreneurial Education Programme, with Junior Minister Lorna Smith urging them to keep learning and embrace emerging tech like AI. Community & Lifestyle: A Father’s Day–timed Island SPACE Mango Festival in South Florida spotlights Caribbean food, music, and family fun ahead of the June 21 World Cup match. Public Safety & Food Security: Pastor Claude O. Skelton-Cline says food insecurity is worsening as VI depends on imports and shipping delays are leaving shelves bare. Sports: BVI Rugby hosts USVI Rugby’s Privateers in a 1st and 2nd team match on June 6 at A.O. Shirley Recreation Grounds. Aviation & Travel: United announces a new nonstop St. Croix–Newark route starting Oct. 31, 2026—its only NYC-area service from St. Croix. Law & Order: RVIPF offers $50,000 for information leading to the capture of escaped fugitives Jose Almestica and John M. Burgos. Remembering: Premier Wheatley mourns the passing of builder Collingston George, praising his business leadership and farming contributions.

Tourism & Culture: The Virgin Islands is set to host a two-day Tourism Summit June 10–11 at Peter Island Resort, bringing together tourism stakeholders, investors, policymakers and creatives to shape “Shaping the Future of Tourism in The Virgin Islands: Partnership, Investment & Direction.” Regional Travel Buzz: Caribbean Week in New York 2026 kicked off June 1 under “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences,” with ministers and industry leaders from across the region—including BVI and USVI—pushing connectivity and resilience during Caribbean American Heritage Month. Local Business & Skills: Twenty-six entrepreneurs graduated from the VI’s Entrepreneurial Education Programme, with Junior Minister Lorna Smith urging graduates to keep learning and embrace emerging tech like AI. Sports & Community: BVI Rugby hosts USVI Rugby’s Privateers on June 6 at A.O. Shirley Recreation Grounds, marking the first time BVI can field a second squad. Public Life & Safety: A pedal cyclist was seriously injured in a multi-vehicle crash near Mary Star of the Sea Roman Catholic Church in Major Bay on June 1. Hurricane Watch: The 2026 Atlantic hurricane season begins June 1 with a below-normal outlook, but officials stress that even quieter seasons can still bring life-changing storms.

Tourism & Culture: The Virgin Islands is gearing up for a two-day Tourism Summit at Peter Island Resort (June 10–11) to align stakeholders on “Shaping the Future of Tourism in the Virgin Islands,” with regional and international leaders expected. Regional Spotlight: Caribbean Week in New York 2026 kicks off today under “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences,” bringing ministers and commissioners together at InterContinental New York Times Square, with BVI and USVI among the confirmed delegations. Local Youth & Health: J’v ersatile (Jan Williams) is urging youth to avoid drugs after a near-fatal experience he says followed marijuana edibles, sharing his “flatlining” hospital ordeal at a Road Town march hosted by the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Community Safety: A pedal cyclist suffered head injuries and a broken leg in a multi-vehicle crash near Mary Star of the Sea Roman Catholic Church in Major Bay. Governance & Self-Determination: Premier Wheatley is calling for security responsibilities to shift from the UK to the VI government, arguing for democratic accountability as constitutional talks move forward. Business & Skills: Twenty-six entrepreneurs complete the Entrepreneurial Education Programme, with a push to apply new planning, marketing, and financial skills—plus a “embrace AI” message—from HLSCC. Arts & Heritage: Take Over Tent (TOT) marks its 45th anniversary, celebrating “excellence in calypso, culture and community” as Lucian Carnival energy builds.

Regional Justice Leadership: The Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court appointed Her Ladyship Madam Margaret Price Findlay as its 14th Chief Justice, effective April 9, underscoring a push for judicial excellence across member states and British overseas territories. Entrepreneurship & Skills: In Tortola, 26 entrepreneurs completed the Entrepreneurial Education Programme with support from the Department of Trade and H. Lavity Stoutt Community College, with Junior Minister Lorna Smith urging graduates to apply new business skills and “embrace AI.” Public Service Pathways: Deputy Governor David D. Archer Jr. encouraged young Virgin Islanders to gain overseas experience, then return to contribute through a renewed focus on public service opportunities and summer placements. Financial Services Focus: Hon. Lorna Smith told compliance professionals that BVI’s financial services growth depends on strong compliance, innovation, and investing in local talent, while also highlighting ongoing regulatory alignment. Constitution Talks: Premier Natalio Wheatley called for transferring security responsibilities from the UK to the VI government with democratic accountability, as constitutional negotiations move toward formal talks. Culture & Community: Take Over Tent (TOT) marked its 45th anniversary, celebrating calypso as a year-round force for “excellence in calypso, culture and community.” Local News & Safety: Police reported a machete allegedly brandished during a RiteWay customer brawl in Pasea, with no injuries, and noted investigations continue. Health & Infrastructure: A $463,087.20 contract was signed for Major Peebles Wing clinic lobby renovations at Dr D. Orlando Smith Hospital. Sports & Entertainment Loss: Jazz legend Sonny Rollins, whose parents immigrated from the Virgin Islands, died at 95, leaving a legacy of improvisation and influence.

Constitutional Talks & Security Control: Premier Natalio Wheatley urged transferring security responsibilities from the UK to the VI government, arguing for democratic accountability so residents can hold providers answerable. Governance & Civic Literacy: Justice Gerard Farara reminded Virgin Islanders that the Constitution is the backbone of the territory’s democracy, not just an abstract document. Caribbean Week in New York: The CTO kicked off Caribbean Week in New York 2026 with ministers and tourism leaders gathering under “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences,” including remarks from VI Governor Albert Bryan Jr. Culture Spotlight: Take Over Tent (TOT) marked its 45th anniversary, celebrating calypso as a year-round force for “excellence in calypso, culture and community.” Local Pageantry: Miss BVI 2026 contestants were revealed, with the pageant set for August 2 and a reinstated $80,000 scholarship top prize. Community & Youth Tourism: Ten students will compete for Junior Ambassador of Tourism on June 4, with the winner representing the VI at the Caribbean Tourism Youth Congress. Public Safety Updates: East End Police Station closed for interior renovations for about a month, while police investigated a machete brandishing during a RiteWay customer brawl. Health & Infrastructure: RDA signed a $463,087.20 contract for Major Peebles Wing clinic lobby renovations. Sports: Winston Bolus National Basketball League action returns with eight games scheduled over the weekend.

BVI Health Infrastructure: The Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) and the Government of the Virgin Islands signed a $463,087.20 contract for renovations to the Major Peebles Wing clinics’ lobby at Dr D. Orlando Smith Hospital in Road Town. Cybersecurity & Public Data: A new NASCIO-Deloitte study says state CISO confidence in protecting public data has fallen from 48% to 22%, with third-party breaches and AI-enabled attacks flagged as major threats. Courts & Corruption Case: A federal judge denied new trials for former USVI Police Commissioner Ray Martinez and former OMB director Jenifer O’Neil in the Mon Ethos corruption case. Local Crime Update: Police say a machete was allegedly brandished during a customer brawl at RiteWay Food Market in Pasea; no injuries were reported. Community & Culture: Take Over Tent (TOT) is marking its 45th anniversary, celebrating calypso as “not for a season,” with events beginning in La Clery. Pageantry & Youth: Miss BVI 2026 contestants were revealed, with an $80,000 four-year educational scholarship returning as the top prize, and the Junior Ambassador of Tourism competition set for June 4. Sports: The Winston Bolus National Basketball League returns with eight games scheduled at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex in Road Town.

Local Safety Update: RVIPF says a machete was allegedly brandished during a customer brawl at RiteWay Food Market in Pasea Estate on May 26; officers recovered one weapon and reported no injuries. Community Watch: Police are investigating reports of shots fired near Mill Mall in Road Town late May 29; no one was injured and a suspect is in custody. Culture & Tourism Spotlight: Miss BVI 2026 contestants were revealed at the Waves of Elegance launch, with the pageant set for Aug. 2 at Festival Village and a reinstated $80,000 four-year scholarship as top prize. Youth Tourism: Ten secondary students will compete June 4 for the Virgin Islands Junior Ambassador of Tourism title, with the winner representing the VI at the Caribbean Tourism Youth Congress in Guyana. Sports & Lifestyle: The Winston Bolus National Basketball League returns with eight games this weekend at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex, Road Town. Governance & Services: East End Police Station is temporarily closed for interior renovations for about a month, while policing services continue via patrols. Senior Fun: Carrot Bay Seniors won Family Feud: Seniors’ Edition, beating East End/Long Look in the final round. Constitution Talk: Premier Wheatley weighed in on constitutional negotiations, saying separate representation for Anegada and Jost van Dyke could be “irregular” under the current district framework.

Police & Safety: East End Police Station is temporarily closed for interior renovation for an initial month, but patrols and policing services stay fully operational, with residents urged to call 368-9415 for help. Beauty & Culture: The 2026 Miss BVI contestants are set to be revealed, with the pageant themed “Celebrating Waves of Culture, Beauty, and Legacy,” plus a reinstated $80,000 four-year scholarship and other prizes. Youth Tourism: Ten students will compete for Virgin Islands Junior Ambassador of Tourism on June 4, with the winner representing the VI at the Caribbean Tourism Youth Congress in Guyana. Community & Seniors: Carrot Bay Seniors’ “Creme of the Crop” won the Family Feud Seniors’ Edition during Senior Citizens’ Month celebrations. Politics & Representation: Anegada and Virgin Gorda voices are pushing for separate representation in the HoA, while Premier Wheatley says constitutional districting is handled through boundaries processes. Sports: The Winston Bolus National Basketball League returns with eight games scheduled May 29–31 at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex. Health & Education: St George’s Secondary won the Mental Math Champions Competition (secondary division), highlighting student talent and teamwork. Constitution Talks: Justice Gerard Farara urged the 2026 Constitution Negotiating Team to negotiate with conviction and confidence, reminding them not everything may be achieved.

Constitution & Representation: BVI Premier Natalio Wheatley says District Councils could work better for Anegada and Jost van Dyke than separate HoA seats, calling it “quite irregular” under the Constitution’s district setup. Local Governance & Accountability: Former BVIAA managing director Kurt A.G. Menal says he resigned for “personal and professional wellbeing,” while commentator Claude Skelton Cline argues statutory board members’ pay and power have drifted from their oversight role. Community & Culture: Miss British Virgin Islands 2026 contestants will be revealed tonight under “Celebrating Waves of Culture, Beauty, and Legacy,” with a reinstated $80,000 scholarship top prize. Education & Youth: St. George’s Secondary won the 2026 Mental Math Champions Competition (Secondary Division). Sports: Eight games headline the Winston Bolus National Basketball League weekend at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex in Road Town. Health & Service: Baker & Partners, International Motors and Riteway launch a monthly blood donation programme for Dr D. Orlando Smith Hospital, starting Friday. Environment & Policy: The St. Thomas/St. Croix Senate advanced a green waste disposal measure allowing controlled incineration only when safer options like shredding, mulching, composting and reuse aren’t available. Safety & Crime: RVIPF says a firearm-related domestic incident led to a police constable being interdicted pending investigation. Climate Readiness: NOAA/NHC’s hurricane “cone of uncertainty” gets updated for 2026, with new tweaks aimed at better public understanding. Tourism Pipeline: CTO’s Regional Nex-Gen Tourism Showcase finals in New York (June 4) include BVI student teams.

Miss BVI 2026: The contestants for “Celebrating Waves of Culture, Beauty, and Legacy” will be revealed tonight at Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park Lawn (6:00 PM), with the winner crowned Aug. 2 at Festival Village and an $80,000 four-year scholarship back as the top prize. Constitution Talks: Premier Natalio Wheatley says District Councils could work better for Anegada and Jost van Dyke than separate House of Assembly seats, pointing to how districts are set by the Constitution and a Boundaries Commission. Independence & Food Security: Dion M. Jennings argues the independence journey must start with food security and real progress on education, healthcare, and economic diversification. Green Waste Plan: The USVI Senate approved a green waste disposal measure using controlled incineration only when safer options like composting and mulching aren’t available, with added fire-safety and smoke-reduction rules. Trade Education Funding: The CTE Board voted to create a nonprofit foundation to fund trade students’ classroom supplies and competition travel. Community Health: A monthly blood donation pilot launches Friday to support the Dr D. Orlando Smith Hospital blood bank. Youth Tourism: BVI students advanced to the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s Regional Nex-Gen Tourism Showcase finals in New York on June 4. Public Safety: RVIPF says a constable was interdicted after a firearm-related domestic incident report. Maritime Security: USCG caught four Chinese and four Dominican Republic stowaways on a barge arriving from Florida. Culture Calendar (USVI): St. John Celebration 2026 runs June 14–July 4 under “History and Collaboration with a Musical Mix.”

Spelling Bee Spotlight: The 2026 Scripps National Spelling Bee finals hit Washington, D.C. tonight at 8 pm ET, with ESPN analyst Mina Kimes calling it a “big-game” moment alongside Paul Loeffler as nine finalists battle for the title. Public Safety & Justice: The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force says a firearm-related report involving an officer led to arrest-for-questioning and interdiction from duty pending investigation. Community Health: Baker & Partners, International Motors and Riteway are launching a monthly blood donation programme on Friday to support the Dr D. Orlando Smith Hospital blood bank, aiming for a six-month pilot that could grow. Education & Youth: St George’s Secondary won the Mental Math Champions Competition (Secondary Division), while Ebenezer Thomas Primary took the Primary Division—both celebrating “mathivated” skills across the Territory. Constitution Talks: Justice Gerard St. C. Farara urged the 2026 Constitution Negotiating Team to approach negotiations with “conviction & confidence,” reminding them they may not get everything they ask for. Culture Calendar (USVI): The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism announced St. John Celebration 2026 runs June 14–July 4 under “History and Collaboration with a Musical Mix,” featuring steel pan nights, village events, and fireworks. Local Governance Debate: Commentator Claude Skelton Cline criticized what he calls rising pay and power for BVI statutory board members, arguing boards should not “run the organisation.”

BVI Governance & Accountability: Commentator Claude Skelton Cline says statutory board members in the BVI have “too much pay and power,” arguing board roles were meant to be volunteer oversight—not jobs that run the organisations. Constitutional Talks: Justice Gerard St. C. Farara, KC urged the 2026 Constitution Negotiating Team to approach talks with “conviction & confidence,” while reminding them they may not get everything they ask for. Community Health: Baker & Partners, International Motors and Riteway will launch a monthly blood donation programme for Dr D. Orlando Smith Hospital on May 29, aiming to build a steady local supply. Education & Youth: St George’s Secondary won the Mental Math Champions Competition (Secondary Division), while ETPS took the Primary Division title. Culture Calendar (USVI): The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism announced St. John Celebration 2026 dates—June 14 to July 4—centered on “History and Collaboration with a Musical Mix.” Tourism & Opportunity: BVI students advanced to the finals of the CTO Regional Nex-Gen Tourism Showcase in New York on June 4.