AGP Executive Report

Sports Finals Tonight: Tola and St Thomas will clash in the 2026 King of the Courts Caribbean Championship final at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex tonight after Tola edged Dominican Republic 92-91 in last-second drama and St Thomas routed St Eustatius 107-71. Community Recognition: Lesmore Smith was honoured at the Virgin Islands Pride Awards in New York for 16 years of service with the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force and for major humanitarian impact through his business and philanthropy. Infrastructure for Play: Work is progressing at A.O. Shirley Recreation Ground, with foundations cast for the final lighting poles and concrete now curing before installation. Football Update: The VI bounced back from a 4-0 loss to Gibraltar to beat Bonaire 2-0 in an international friendly in Spain. Tourism & Youth Spotlight: Mary Joseph won VI’s Junior Ambassador of Tourism contest with a social-media strategy to promote the territory year-round, and a VI team took top honours at the CTO Regional Nex-Gen Tourism Showcase with a “Green & Blue Economy Tourism Hub” pitch. Public Service Training: CXC launched an Excellence in Customer Service programme in the VI to train facilitators and upgrade public service delivery. Hurricane Readiness: Officials urged farmers and fishers to prepare for the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season as NOAA forecasts 8–14 named storms.

Utilities Merger: The BVI Electricity Corporation and Water & Sewerage Department merger cleared another hurdle after Governor Daniel Pruce assented to the law, paving the way for VIEWCo and a single public notification platform for water and power service advisories. Public Service Training: The Virgin Islands Public Service launched the Excellence in Customer Service CXC Programme, with the first officers completing training toward regional certification. Tourism Spotlight: Mary Joseph was named the VI’s new Junior Ambassador of Tourism, pitching a social-media-led strategy to boost smart travel year-round. Hurricane Prep: VI officials urged farmers and fishers to secure assets and update plans as the Atlantic hurricane season runs through Nov. 30. Safety Alert: Police in Road Town charged Shakhoy Penn after a handgun and ammunition were recovered during a gunfire response. Sports & Culture: The VI won CTO Regional Nex-Gen Tourism Showcase in New York, and Rush Sports says it’s gearing up for broad Caribbean World Cup viewing. Global Pop Culture: “Love Island USA” season eight includes multiple contestants with ties to the U.S. Virgin Islands. Lottery Buzz: Powerball climbed to $212M ahead of the June 6 drawing.

Utility Merger: Governor Daniel Pruce has assented to the BVIEC and W&SD merger, clearing the way for VIEWCo to unify electricity, water, and sewerage services across the Territory, with a single public notification platform for outages and advisories. Public Service Upgrade: The Virgin Islands Public Service launched the Excellence in Customer Service CXC Programme, with the first 15 officers completing training and earning regional certification. Hurricane Readiness: As the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season begins, officials urged farmers and fishers to secure assets, prep livestock and gear, and plan early to reduce storm losses. Culture & Learning: A poetry and critical essay competition was launched for the Long Look 250th Freedom commemoration, themed “Self-manumission,” inviting youth to explore heritage and legacy. Tourism Spotlight: Mary Joseph won BVI’s Junior Ambassador of Tourism contest with a TAG strategy using social media to promote the islands year-round. Crime Alert: In Road Town, Shakhoy Penn was charged after police recovered a Glock 17 and ammunition during a suspected gunfire response. Sports: VG Bayside Blazers bounced back in King of the Courts, crushing St Croix 100-79 on June 4.

Public Service & Training: The Virgin Islands Public Service Learning Institute and CXC launched the Excellence in Customer Service CXC Programme, with the first 15 officers already completing training and earning regional certification. Tourism Spotlight: Mary Joseph was named VI’s new Junior Ambassador of Tourism, pitching a “TAG: Target. Authenticate. Guide” strategy using social media to promote the islands year-round. Sports: VG Bayside Blazers bounced back in the 2026 King of the Courts, routing St Croix 100-79 on June 4, with Nicholas D.J. Faust leading the charge. Utilities & Resilience: The Governor assented to the BVIEC and Water & Sewerage merger law, paving the way for VIEWCo, while officials also urged hurricane-season preparedness and stronger emergency communications. Safety & Crime Alert: VIPD warned drivers about a new carjacking “trap” tactic on St Croix, and RVIPF charged Shakhoy Penn after a handgun and ammunition were seized in Road Town. Entertainment & Culture: Miss BVI 2026 contestants are set to be introduced in “Crown & Conversations” via Facebook Live ahead of the August 2 pageant.

Food Safety Watch: VI Environmental Health Officer Susan Sealey says cleaning and sanitation are the biggest daily problems in food establishments, urging people to check hygiene, handwashing, pests, and clean environments before buying. Tourism Spotlight: Mary Joseph was crowned VI’s new Junior Ambassador of Tourism, pitching “TAG: Target. Authenticate. Guide” to use Instagram and TikTok for smarter, year-round promotion. Hurricane Readiness: Communications and Works Minister Kye Rymer calls residents to stay vigilant as the 2026 Atlantic season begins, with teams clearing drains/ghuts, managing vegetation, inspecting roads, and strengthening emergency communications. Public Service Upgrade: The Virgin Islands Public Service launched a CXC customer service certification programme, with the first 15 officers training for regional credentials. Utilities Merger: Governor Daniel Pruce assented to the BVIEC and Water & Sewerage merger law, paving the way for VIEWCo to run electricity, water, and sewerage under one body. Sports & Culture: VG Bayside Blazers bounced back to beat St Croix 100-79 in King of the Courts, while VI students won CTO Regional Nex-Gen Tourism Showcase for a “Green & Blue Economy Tourism Hub.” Local Headlines: Police charged Shakhoy Penn after a Road Town gunfire response led to a Glock 17 and ammunition seizure; and the Miss BVI 2026 contestants are set for “Crown & Conversations” on Facebook Live tonight.

Workforce & Training: UVI’s Medical Simulation Center has been added to the U.S. Virgin Islands Eligible Training Provider List, unlocking WIOA funding for EMT training; the center says 10 residents just completed Cohort 2 with a strong push toward NREMT certification. BVI Crime & Safety: Shakhoy Penn, of Tortola, was charged after police recovered a Glock 17 with an extended magazine and 21 rounds, plus allegations involving explosives; he remains in custody awaiting court. Public Safety Alert: RVIPF is offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to the capture of escaped fugitives Jose Almestica and John Burgos, described as armed and extremely dangerous. Miss BVI Spotlight: The Miss BVI 2026 reveal is getting a social-media boost with “Crown & Conversations,” a Facebook Live tonight featuring contestants Angelique Lettsome, Kala Penn, and Asha A.S. Hydnman. Sports: VG Bayside Blazers bounced back in the 2026 King of the Courts, blasting St Croix 100-79 on Night 2. Local Governance & Policy: Health Minister Vincent O. Wheatley says the State of the Territory Address should focus on health infrastructure progress and what to do about derelicts.

Miss BVI Spotlight: “Crown & Conversations” is set for this evening (June 4) as the Miss BVI 2026 sub-committee launches a Facebook Live to introduce contestants Angelique Lettsome, Kala Penn, and Asha A.S. Hydnman beyond the crown, with reigning Miss BVI Donyelle D. Hodge. Football (VI vs Gibraltar): The VI men’s national team fell 4-0 to Gibraltar in a friendly at Europa Point on June 3, with the next match vs Europa FC on June 6 in Málaga. Health Priorities: Health Minister Vincent O. Wheatley says the State of the Territory Address must tackle health infrastructure progress and what to do about derelicts. AI Governance: Hon. Lorna G. Smith, OBE, says the VI needs an AI policy as digital transformation accelerates. Local Business & Tourism: Caribbean Week in New York 2026 is bringing regional tourism leaders together under “One Caribbean: Infinite experiences,” with BVI among the delegations. Public Safety: RVIPF is offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to the capture of escaped fugitives Jose Almestica and John M. Burgos. Tech & Security (US-Iran): Jamshid Ghomi faces US sanctions-related charges tied to alleged supply of export-restricted networking and encryption gear to Iran.

BVI Business & Networking: The BVI Chamber of Commerce is set to host its “Meet the Members Series” on June 4, 6:00 PM, at the BVI Finance Conference Room (Cutlass Tower, 3rd floor), inviting members and business professionals to connect, learn about BVICC support, and share what’s next for the local business community. Police & Public Safety: The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force has offered a $50,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of escaped, armed fugitives Jose Almestica and John M. Burgos, both considered dangerous and wanted in connection with serious offences. Local Governance & Digital Policy: Junior Minister Lorna G. Smith says the Virgin Islands needs an AI management policy, alongside continued business revitalisation efforts highlighted through recent entrepreneurship programme graduations. Sports (BVI on the Pitch): The VI men’s national team plays Gibraltar today in a Europe training camp, with another friendly against Europa FC on June 6 in Spain. Arts & Culture (Community Events): Island SPACE Caribbean Museum’s Island SPACE Mango Festival in South Florida (June 21, ahead of the World Cup) spotlights Caribbean food, music, and family fun. Global Finance Watch (BVI-linked): WISeKey’s BVI-linked satellite unit WISeSat has confidentially filed an amended Form F-4 with the U.S. SEC tied to its proposed business combination.

AI Policy Push: VI’s Hon Lorna G. Smith says the territory needs a clear policy to manage AI as part of its digital transformation push. Football Friendly: The VI men’s national team takes on Gibraltar today in a Europe camp, then faces Europa FC in Spain on June 6. Local Culture & Community: The Island SPACE Mango Festival brings Caribbean food, music, and family fun ahead of the World Cup in South Florida. Food Insecurity Pressure: Pastor Claude O. Skelton-Cline warns of a shipping-linked food crisis, with stores reportedly missing items as deliveries get delayed. Coastal Works Backlash: Skelton-Cline also blasts the West End seawall design as blocking views and changing Tortola’s character. Public Safety: RVIPF offers a $50,000 reward for information leading to the capture of escaped fugitives Jose Almestica and John M. Burgos. Sports Calendar: BVI Rugby hosts USVI’s Privateers this Saturday at A.O. Shirley Recreation Grounds. Hurricane Readiness: Even with a below-normal forecast, VI/USVI agencies urge residents to prepare now for the 2026 Atlantic season.

Tourism & Culture: The Virgin Islands Tourism Summit 2026 is set for June 10–11 at Peter Island Resort, bringing together tourism leaders, investors, policymakers and creatives to shape the next direction for sustainable growth and resilience. Sports: BVI Rugby hosts USVI Rugby’s Privateers on June 6 at A.O. Shirley Recreation Grounds, with a first-ever 2nd BVI squad in 12-a-side matches. Power & Preparedness: WAPA says a Randolph Harley Power Plant failure triggered St. Thomas/St. John outages, while the Coast Guard and NOAA are urging hurricane-season readiness despite a below-normal forecast. Local Governance & Security: Premier Wheatley defends keeping key Trade Commission powers with the ministry, and Deputy Governor David D. Archer Jr. pushes youth to gain overseas experience and return to serve. Community & Entertainment: Soca Monarch J’v ersatile urges youth to avoid drugs after a near-fatal reaction to marijuana edibles. Judicial Leadership: Her Ladyship Madam Margaret Price Findlay appointed Chief Justice of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court.

BVI Finance & Tourism: The BVI Finance 2026 Latin America roadshow is rescheduled to July 13–16, hitting Lima, Bogota and Panama City under “The BVI Advantage.” Caribbean Week in New York: Caribbean tourism leaders are in Manhattan for Caribbean Week 2026 (June 1–5), with BVI representation and a Caribbean Women in Tourism Leadership Dinner featuring United’s Christine Valls. Local Tourism Planning: The Virgin Islands will host a two-day Tourism Summit June 10–11 on Peter Island, bringing together policymakers, investors and creatives to shape the next push for sustainable tourism. Sports: BVI Rugby hosts USVI Rugby’s Privateers on Saturday, June 6 at A.O. Shirley Recreation Grounds, with a big milestone: the first time BVI fields a second squad. Power & Community Disruption: WAPA CEO Karl Knight says a Randolph Harley Power Plant failure triggered weekend blackouts in St. Thomas and St. John, disrupting government and businesses. Entertainment & Youth: Soca star J’vërsatile (Jan Williams) urges youth to avoid drugs after a near-fatal reaction to marijuana edibles. Public Safety: Questions are raised over mobile surveillance camera units spotted around Tortola, including near Government House and the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex.

Constitution Talks: Premier Natalio Wheatley says the UK isn’t interested in free association, making independence the main path if the BVI changes status, as public engagement continues in Virgin Gorda. Security & Governance: Wheatley also argues security should shift from the UK to the VI with democratic accountability, while Justice Gerard St. C. Farara urges residents to treat the Constitution as the backbone of the territory’s democracy. Trade Commission Fight: Wheatley defends scaling back the proposed Trade Commission’s powers after criticism from the opposition, saying constitutional responsibilities can’t be handed off. Infrastructure Setback: West End Ferry Terminal redevelopment faces delays after bids came in far above budget, forcing redesigns. Public Safety Questions: Residents report mystery mobile surveillance camera units around Tortola, but RVIPF hasn’t answered key questions about purpose and facial recognition. Arts & Culture Spotlight: Miss BVI 2026 contestants were revealed ahead of the Aug. 2 pageant, and the Take Over Tent (TOT) marks 45 years of calypso culture. Entrepreneurship: 26 entrepreneurs complete the Department of Trade’s Entrepreneurial Education Programme, with a push to “embrace AI.” Tourism Week Buzz: Caribbean Week in New York returns June 1 with CTO sessions and regional tourism leaders, including BVI and USVI representation.

Public Service Pathways: Deputy Gov. David D. Archer Jr. urged young Virgin Islanders to gain overseas experience, then return to strengthen the Territory through the planned HR Quest BVI and summer public service placements. Financial Services & Compliance: Junior Minister Lorna G. Smith pushed a “local talent + innovation” message at the BVIACO compliance conference, stressing FATF progress and internationally aligned regulation. Constitution Talks on Security: Premier Natalio D. Wheatley and Justice Gerard St. C. Farara spoke during Virgin Gorda consultations, with Wheatley calling for security powers to move from the UK to local democratic accountability. Trade Commission Debate: Wheatley defended scaling back the proposed Trade Commission’s powers during the Consumer Protection Amendment Bill debate, backing Smith’s “due diligence.” Tourism Spotlight: Caribbean Week in New York kicks off June 1 with CTO events, and BVI Premier Wheatley is set for sessions tied to airlift and next-gen tourism strategy. Arts & Culture: Take Over Tent (TOT) marks 45 years of calypso culture and community, while Miss BVI 2026 contestants were revealed and a Junior Ambassador of Tourism competition runs June 4. Community & Safety: East End Police Station closes for a month for interior renovations; a machete was allegedly brandished in a RiteWay customer brawl; and a gun incident near Mill Mall is reported with no injuries. Health & Local Life: A $463,087.20 contract was signed for Major Peebles Wing clinic lobby renovations, and Vanterpool’s Pharmacy 55th anniversary raffle top prize went to Keje Hendrickson.

Caribbean Week in New York: Tourism ministers and commissioners from across the region, including the British Virgin Islands and U.S. Virgin Islands, are set to gather Monday, June 1 at InterContinental New York Times Square for CTO’s “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences,” with Governor Albert Bryan Jr. and BVI Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley leading the opening events. Caribbean Marketing Conference: Henry Harteveldt will keynote the June 3 conference, focusing on airline trends and how Caribbean destinations can strengthen air connectivity. BVI Culture Spotlight: Take Over Tent (TOT) marks its 45th anniversary in Lucian Carnival spirit, pushing the message that calypso isn’t “for a season.” Pageant Watch: Miss BVI 2026 contestants were revealed Friday, with the crown ceremony set for Aug. 2 and an $80,000 four-year scholarship returning as top prize. Local Community & Safety: A machete was allegedly brandished during a RiteWay customer brawl in Pasea; no injuries reported. Power & Infrastructure: Total blackouts hit St. Thomas and St. John twice this weekend, tied to generation loss, as residents push for faster fixes. Health Facility Upgrade: A $463,087 contract was signed for renovations to the Major Peebles Wing clinics’ lobby at Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital. Sports: BVI Basketball League action continues with eight games scheduled at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex in Road Town.

Court Update: A federal judge denied new trials or acquittals for former USVI Police Commissioner Ray Martinez and former OMB director Jenifer O’Neil in the Mon Ethos corruption case. Health Infrastructure: RDA signed a $463,087.20 contract for renovations to the Major Peebles Wing clinics’ lobby at Dr D. Orlando Smith Hospital. Public Safety: Police say a machete was allegedly brandished during a customer brawl at RiteWay Food Market in Pasea; one weapon was recovered and investigations continue. Power & Daily Life: St. Thomas and St. John in the USVI suffered a total blackout twice this weekend, tied to generation loss at a power plant. Community & Culture: Vanterpool’s Pharmacy 55th anniversary raffle ended with Keje Hendrickson winning the $5,500 top prize, plus donations to local groups. Tourism Spotlight: Caribbean Week returns to New York June 1 with VI leaders in the delegation and sessions on tourism strategy and airlift. Arts & Youth: Miss BVI 2026 contestants were revealed, and the VI Junior Ambassador of Tourism competition is set for June 4. Sports: Winston Bolus National Basketball League action continues with eight games scheduled this weekend in Road Town. Odds & Ends: Powerball and Mega Millions numbers were published as jackpots climbed.

Road Town Gun Incident: Police are investigating shots fired late Friday night near RT by Mill Mall; reports say a man fired into the air after an altercation, with no injuries, and an off-duty officer helped identify the suspect who is now in custody awaiting charges. East End Policing Disruption: The East End Police Station closed temporarily for one month starting May 29 to allow interior renovation, while patrols and public assistance via 368-9415 remain available. Pageantry Spotlight: Miss BVI 2026 contestants were introduced at “Waves of Elegance,” with the winner set to receive a reinstated $80,000 four-year scholarship plus a new 2027 Haval Jolion and custom crown. Youth Tourism: Ten secondary students will compete for Virgin Islands Junior Ambassador of Tourism on June 4 at Maria’s by the Sea, with the winner heading to Guyana for the CTO youth congress. Community Sports: The Winston Bolus National Basketball League returns with eight junior and senior games at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex in Road Town starting 6:00 PM. Mega Millions: No jackpot winner in Friday’s draw; next Mega Millions is Tuesday, June 2, with an estimated $346M.