AGP Executive Report

BVI Health Leadership: Gordon Frame is reportedly set to become the next CEO of BVIHSA, expected to start Sept. 1, as health officials keep details tight. USVI Horse Racing & Gaming: Labour Day races at St. Thomas’ Clinton E. Phipps Sr. Racetrack were cancelled after the Legislature sent the Southland Gaming bill back to committee, leaving the St. Croix racetrack plan in limbo. Energy Bills & Public Accountability: BVI Electricity Corporation says a credit will land on customers’ next bills, but won’t say the amount yet—pending central government approvals. Road Access for Visitors & Locals: Long Bay Road on Virgin Gorda has reopened, restoring a key bypass route to North Sound after 2025 flooding. Online Safety & Youth: A major US multistate Meta settlement includes the U.S. Virgin Islands, with new child-safety rules like daily time limits and other platform changes. Community Voices: Sandra Phillip-Hodge renews calls for answers on the long-delayed National Population Census, warning elections could be held without clear demographics. Culture & Lifestyle: Tim Curry, beloved for “The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” has died at 80. Weather Watch: Tropical Storm Dolly forms in the Atlantic and could bring heavy rain to parts of the Caribbean, including the Virgin Islands, later this weekend.

Social Media Accountability: Meta’s landmark multistate settlement over alleged addictive design and youth mental harm is rolling out, with New Hampshire up to $224.3M and South Dakota at least $52.6M—plus required child-safety changes on Facebook and Instagram. Territorial Politics & Governance: In the USVI, senators sent the Southland Gaming racetrack bill back to committee, leaving St. Croix VLT and live-racing plans in limbo amid debate over jobs and whether gambling gains are just reshuffling. Local Infrastructure: Virgin Gorda’s Long Bay Road has reopened, restoring a key bypass after 2025 flooding and giving residents and visitors a second route to North Sound. Energy Costs & Public Pressure: BVI Electricity Corporation credit plans are still being finalized, while officials say repeated diesel subsidies aren’t sustainable—renewables are framed as the long-term fix. Civic Readiness: BVI’s Sandra Phillip-Hodge renews calls for answers on the long-delayed population census, warning elections may be fought without clear demographic data. Culture & Community: Tortola’s Lions Club received $1,000 from RiteWay customers for the BVI Book Tree literacy drive, supporting free books for children across the islands. Sports & Tourism Spotlight: St. Croix is set to host the ISCA Sunfish Worlds and Pan American Games qualifying event, bringing international sailing to the Caribbean.

Energy Bills & Fuel Subsidy Fallout: In the BVI, BVIEC customers are seeing unusually high August electricity bills tied to a fuel surcharge after the government’s three-month subsidy ended, with BVIEC’s Dr Neil M. Smith saying a credit will come next month but won’t disclose the amount yet. Local Governance & Accountability: Social commentator Pastor Claude O. Skelton-Cline says he warned BVIEC and government earlier this year to lock in fuel pricing, calling the current situation an “I told you so” moment. Roads & Daily Life: Long Bay Road on Virgin Gorda has reopened after flooding damage in 2025, restoring a key route to North Sound and easing congestion for residents, taxis, and tour operators. Online Safety & Youth: A major multistate settlement with Meta over alleged addictive design on Facebook and Instagram is set to deliver South Dakota $52.6M minimum, with safeguards for children—part of a wider push that also includes the U.S. Virgin Islands. Civic Readiness: Independent At-Large candidate Sandra Phillip-Hodge is pressing the VIP administration over the 15-year delay of the National Population Census, warning elections are happening without clear demographic data. Community & Culture: The Lions Club of Tortola received $1,000 from RiteWay Food Markets’ RoundUp drive for the BVI Book Tree literacy program, expanding free books across the islands. Health & Consent: The VI CMO reiterated STI and HIV prevention, emphasizing meaningful consent, the age of consent, and concerns about STI risk among adolescents and young adults. Infrastructure for Pedestrians: The DeCastro Street Sidewalk Improvement Project is set to begin on September 7, aiming to make Road Town sidewalks safer and more accessible.

Territorial Honors & Culture: The VI Legislature honored former Gov. Kenneth Ezra Mapp with the Virgin Islands Medal of Honor and named St. Croix’s Route 75 the “Gov. Kenneth E. Mapp Highway,” alongside other tributes spanning music, youth development, and military service. Youth Leadership & Exchange: Zenaida Cranford’s “Girl, Ignite Your Fire!” cultural exchange in St. Croix put Fayetteville teens in real leadership roles, including stepping in to close a gap at registration. Trade, Tourism & Community Links: A VI delegation in India was hosted by the Society of Indian Law Firms, while BVI tourism push continues with the VI nominated for the Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards 2026. Health & Safety: The VI CMO renewed calls for consent and responsible sexual health as STI risk among adolescents rises, and noted 4 new HIV cases recorded in 2026 so far. Electricity Relief: BVIEC says September bills will get a credit after August power bills spiked from record fuel costs, with government subsidy ending. Literacy Boost: RiteWay customers raised $1,000 for the BVI Book Tree literacy drive.

Territory Electricity Relief: BVI’s Communications and Works Minister Kye Rymer says repeated government subsidising of imported diesel isn’t sustainable, as BVIEC prepares a credit for September bills after August’s record-high power costs. Public Health & Youth Safety: VI CMO Dr Ronald Georges warns of rising STI risk among adolescents and young adults, stressing consent, the law (age of consent 16), and the dangers of transactional sex. Education & Literacy: Poetry Out Loud 2026–27 registration is open, with VI included in the national program; locally, the Lions Club of Tortola received a $1,000 RiteWay RoundUp donation for the BVI Book Tree. Tourism & Culture Spotlight: BVI is nominated for the Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards 2026, and ASTA Caribbean Showcase in St Kitts featured BVI’s tourism ministerial presence. Regional Health Leadership: Dr Eva Jané Llopis begins as PAHO/WHO Representative for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Countries, with her portfolio explicitly including the British Virgin Islands. Sports & Community: BVIFA goalkeeper coach Nicholas Dick completes an elite youth workshop, while Tortola’s community literacy and school arts programs keep momentum. Finance & Governance: VI education leaders tout upward system gains, while VI budget talks flag a projected $58.997m deficit.

UVI RTPark Wins Record Awards: UVI’s Research and Technology Park took home six 2026 International Economic Development Council honors, including three Golds for STEM equity, solar infrastructure and innovative financing—plus Silver and Bronze for its wider programs and startup event. BVI-India Financial Push: Premier Natalio Wheatley met India’s Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman as a BVI delegation explores deeper ties in fintech, digital transformation, trade and investment, with a first-ever VI-India Trade Mission running Aug. 24–31. Power Bills Relief in BVI: BVIEC says September bills will get a credit after unusually high August electricity charges driven by July fuel costs and global shipping pressures. Marine Industry Pressure: VI Shipping Registry director John M. Samuel warns that the territory’s commercial recreational marine growth is being held back by a shortage of safe, hurricane-resilient marina space and limited airlift/hotel capacity. Tourism Access & Culture: BVI’s “Unrushed Season” targets Puerto Rico visitors with special rates and quieter travel from late summer into early fall. Public Safety at Festivals: RVIPF reports arrests and charges after a Rise & Shine Tramp altercation, with other incidents still under investigation. Sports & Community: Vincentian duo Rasheed Huggins and Nikita Campbell Cumberbatch certified as national volleyball referees, while VI and regional football and basketball updates keep fans engaged.

Marine Industry & Infrastructure: VI Shipping Registry director John M. Samuel says the territory’s commercial recreational marine growth is being held back by a shortage of safe, hurricane-resilient marina berths, plus limited airlift and hotel capacity—pushing many owners to leave each summer to stay insured and compliant. Cost of Living Pressure: BVIEC will apply a credit to September electricity bills after August bills spiked from record fuel costs tied to global market disruption and shipping impacts. Food Security: USVI SNAP recipients—about 5,000 people—are being urged to prepare for new work/volunteer/training requirements starting Sept. 1, including checking for possible exemptions. Tourism, Culture & Travel Deals: BVI’s “Unrushed Season” is rolling out special rates for Puerto Rico residents, while CMEx profiles Caribbean media honoree Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon ahead of the Dec. 6 Leadership Awards. Local Governance & Access: Hon. Vincent O. Wheatley reiterates that The Baths and Devil’s Bay must remain public and accessible, responding to concerns about reserved cruise access. Community & Education: Ocean Point Terminals awards $16,000 in scholarships to eight VI students, and VI’s top CSEC performer Juanita Jardine leads a strong results roundup. Public Safety: RVIPF reports arrests and charges after a Rise & Shine Tramp altercation, with other festival incidents still under investigation.

Literacy & Education: Okkodo High School teacher Joseph Chargualaf II was named a 2026/27 National Book Foundation Teacher Fellow, one of eight nationwide, to lead a yearlong classroom literacy push. Local Governance & Community Life: Eligible Virgin Islands residents are being urged to register to vote by Aug. 28 to be included on the 2026 Preliminary Voters List. Public Safety: Two people were arrested and charged after a Rise and Shine Tramp altercation, with police also investigating other festival incidents including gunfire. Health Watch: The VI recorded four new HIV cases in 2026 so far, with officials stressing testing, prevention, and knowing your status. Culture, Tourism & Access: Ninth District Rep. Vincent O. Wheatley reiterated that The Baths and Devil’s Bay must stay open to the public, rejecting reserved access plans. Marine Economy & Safety: Government and marine stakeholders discussed 20 marine accidents this year, urging stronger operator competence and better reporting. Scholarships: Ocean Point Terminals awarded $16,000 in scholarships to eight USVI students for 2026-27. Business & Growth: The VI government announced US$165,000 in MSME grants to 18 local business owners, including a first-time award for Jost van Dyke.

Immigration & Borders: The RDA hosted a bidders’ conference for the Virgin Islands’ first purpose-built Immigration Detention Centre as the competitive procurement process moves ahead; bids are due Oct. 5, 2026. Sports & Youth Development: BVIFA goalkeeper coach Nicholas Dick completed FIFA’s Elite Youth Goalkeeper Coaches Workshop in the Dominican Republic, part of a push for stronger youth training. BVI Tourism & Lifestyle: The BVI Tourist Board is rolling out “Unrushed Season” exclusive rates for Puerto Rico residents, including Scrub Island stays from $399/night with proof of residency. Public Safety & Community Life: RVIPF says two people were arrested and charged after a Rise and Shine Tramp altercation, with police also investigating other festival incidents including gunfire. Health & Education: VI recorded four new HIV cases in 2026 so far, and Okkodo High School teacher Joseph Chargualaf II was named a 2026/27 National Book Foundation Teacher Fellow. Culture & Access: Hon. Vincent O. Wheatley reiterated that The Baths and Devil’s Bay must stay open to the public, opposing reserved access plans. Marine Economy: VI and BVI coverage highlights marine tourism’s growth needs and safety focus after 20 marine accidents in 2026, urging better operator competence and reporting.

Elections & Civic Life: Eligible Virgin Islands residents are being urged to register to vote before the Friday, Aug. 28 deadline for the 2026 Preliminary Voters List. Border & Travel Policy: The RVIPF says visa waivers will now be capped at two years (no longer tied to the remaining life of a passport), as part of strengthened border security. Community & Safety: Police report two arrests after a Rise and Shine Tramp altercation, charging wounding and grievous bodily harm. Health & Wellness: The VI recorded four new HIV cases in 2026 so far, with officials stressing testing, prevention, and partner responsibility. Education & Youth: Okkodo High School teacher Joseph Chargualaf II was named a 2026/27 National Book Foundation Teacher Fellow, and Juanita Jardine topped VI CSEC results with nine Grade Ones. Local Culture & Learning: VIAA and the Lions Club of Tortola held an Alzheimer’s awareness session focused on early warning signs and family support. Marine Tourism Watch: BVI marine authorities are urging operators to tighten safety after 20 accidents this year, with collisions and groundings making up most incidents. Scholarships: Ocean Point Terminals awarded $16,000 in scholarships to eight USVI students for 2026-27. Business & Jobs: The VI government announced US$165,000 in MSME grants to 18 local business owners, including support for sectors like tours, trades, and senior care.

Elections & Civic Life: Eligible Virgin Islands residents are being urged to register to vote before the Aug. 28, 2026 deadline for inclusion on the 2026 Preliminary Voters List, with officials listing required Belonger documents and registration locations across the Territory. Border & Travel Policy: The RVIPF says visa waivers will now be capped at two years (no longer tied to the remaining life of a passport), as part of strengthened border security. Community & Education: Ocean Point Terminals opened applications for its Mourant’s Annual Giving Day and announced $16,000 in scholarships for eight USVI students, while Okkodo High School teacher Joseph Chargualaf II was named a 2026/27 National Book Foundation Teacher Fellow. Public Health: The VI recorded four new HIV cases in 2026 so far, with the CMO stressing interconnected sexual networks, testing, and protection. Culture, Access & Tourism: Hon. Vincent O. Wheatley reiterated that The Baths and Devil’s Bay must remain public, warning against reserved cruise access that excludes locals. Marine Safety: VI authorities urged operators to tighten safety practices after 20 marine accidents this year, with collisions and groundings making up most incidents. Local Business Support: The government awarded US$165,000 in MSME grants to 18 local entrepreneurs, including first-time support for a Jost van Dyke business. Sports & Community Pride: Ocean Point scholarships and VI academic wins topped the week, alongside volleyball medal results from the ECVA championships in Tortola.

Literacy & Education: Okkodo High School English teacher Joseph Chargualaf II was named a 2026/27 National Book Foundation Teacher Fellow, selected from 250+ applicants to lead a yearlong classroom literacy push. Public Access & Community Rights: Ninth District Rep. Hon Vincent O. Wheatley says The Baths and Devil’s Bay “must remain open” to the public, rejecting any reserved-access plan that would withhold beach access during peak mornings. Festival Safety: After a Rise & Shine Tramp altercation on Aug. 4, the RVIPF reports two arrests and charges—wounding and grievous bodily harm—plus ongoing investigations into other incidents during the festivities. Health Watch: The VI recorded four new HIV cases in 2026 so far, with officials stressing interconnected sexual networks, testing, and consistent protection. Marine Tourism & Safety: VI marine authorities and policy voices are urging stronger operator competence and reporting after 20 marine accidents this year, with collisions and groundings making up 90% of cases. Local Business Support: The VI awarded US$165,000 in MSME grants to 18 owners, including first-time support for a Jost van Dyke business. School Spotlight: Juanita Jardine topped VI CSEC results with 9 Grade Ones, as the territory also reported a 100% pass rate in multiple subjects. Cruise Culture: Norwegian Cruise Line detailed Norwegian Aura’s Caribbean sailings and new onboard dining and wellness upgrades, including an Indian specialty restaurant and an expanded thermal spa. Community Care: VIAA and the Lions Club of Tortola held an Alzheimer’s awareness session focused on early warning signs and family support.

Public Access & Local Control: Hon Vincent O. Wheatley says The Baths and Devil’s Bay “must remain open” to everyone, repeating his long-standing stance against reserved cruise-only access. Public Safety at Festivals: RVIPF reports two arrests after a Rise and Shine Tramp altercation—one charged with wounding and an offensive weapon, the other with inflicting grievous bodily harm—while other incidents are still under investigation. Marine Tourism & Safety: BVI marine authorities spotlight 20 accidents in 2026 so far, urging better competence, lookout, reporting, and decision-making; a policy analyst also calls for stronger public-private partnerships to grow marine tourism with local ownership. Health & Community: VI records four new HIV cases (not an outbreak, but linked networks call for testing and protection), while VIAA and Lions Club of Tortola push Alzheimer’s early-warning awareness and support. Education & Youth: VI names Juanita Jardine as top CSEC student (9 Grade Ones) and notes strong pass rates across subjects. Business & Scholarships: Government grants $165,000 to 18 MSMEs, and Make It Happen Foundation’s Aug. 22–23 T-Off-4 Tuition weekend backs student scholarships. Culture & Lifestyle: Zip Rzeppa’s speaker series gears up with big-name guests, and a new patient empowerment series launches through VISNA.

Public Access & Tourism Tension: Hon. Vincent O. Wheatley says The Baths and Devil’s Bay “must remain open” to the public, responding to backlash over reported reserved cruise access during peak mornings. Marine Safety Push: After 20 accidents this year, the VI is urging marine operators to tighten safety practices, improve reporting, and strengthen lookout and decision-making. Health & Community Care: VIAA and the Lions Club of Tortola hosted an Alzheimer’s awareness session focused on early warning signs and family support. Education Funding: Make It Happen Foundation’s Aug. 22–23 T-Off-4 Tuition weekend on St. Croix will raise scholarship funds for VI students. Women’s Health Service: BVIHSA announced a Specialist Menopause Clinic launching Sept. 4 at Dr D. Orlando Smith Hospital. Local Culture & Lifestyle: VISNA launched a Patient Empowerment series in St. Thomas, encouraging residents to ask questions and advocate for their care. Missing Person Alert: Royal VI Police are asking the public to help locate Mozart Peters (Dexter) of Free Bottom, listed as a vulnerable adult.

Public Service Survey: Virgin Islands residents are being urged to honestly complete the Public Service Transformation Survey, with a separate form for public officers, as officials push for the next phase of improving how people interact with government. Local Business & Ownership: Claude O. Skelton-Cline used “Honestly Speaking” to argue Virgin Islanders are natural owners—and warned that multinational dominance without clear rules is “cannibalising the market” and squeezing small businesses. Scholarships Fundraiser: Make It Happen Foundation’s T-Off-4 Tuition weekend (Aug. 22–23) on St. Croix pairs an island-chic cocktail reception with a golf benefit, with proceeds going to VI student scholarships. Marine Safety Push: After 20 accidents this year, marine operators are being urged to strengthen safety practices, reporting, and operator competence. Health Education: VIAA brought Alzheimer’s awareness to the Lions Club of Tortola, focusing on early warning signs and family support. Elections Scrutiny: The Elections System of the Virgin Islands faced budget questions as turnout was highlighted and concerns raised about funding impacts. Women’s Health: BVIHSA announced a Specialist Menopause Clinic launching Sept. 4 at Dr D Orlando Smith Hospital. Community Updates: Police are seeking Free Bottom resident Mozart Peters (Dexter), reported missing and considered a vulnerable adult.

Health & Care: BVIHSA will open a Specialist Menopause Clinic at Dr D. Orlando Smith Hospital on Sept. 4, led by certified menopause specialist Dr Neveta Sutherland-Vaccianna, with weekly Friday appointments and individualized support for perimenopause and menopause symptoms. Community Safety: RVIPF is asking the public to help find Mozart Peters (“Dexter”), a vulnerable adult last seen in Free Bottom on Aug. 17. Local Governance & Accountability: Opposition Leader Marlon Penn is pushing for a full independent Auditor General probe into over US$7.5 million invested from the Consolidated Fund, citing lack of public briefing. Marine & Tourism Access: Grandeur Charters’ Ramon George wants the finger pier at Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park restored for more efficient cruise visitor pickup/drop-off. Education: CXC says more than 32,000 CSEC candidates missed exams in the May–June 2026 sitting, urging students to at least attempt papers. Culture & Sport: ECVA volleyball wrapped up in Tortola with Bermuda’s women winning gold and St Vincent and the Grenadines taking men’s gold; local drag racing team Alpha Dog Racing Crew swept gold at Nevis Culturama.