Media solidarity

A Beaconite who was barred from the government-subsidised BVI Airways’ “open house” — despite the fact that the Beacon received an invitation to the event — was heartened to see and hear so many comments in support of this newspaper, and press freedom in general, over the past week.

The Beaconite was also interested to see many people say that other media at the event should have boycotted the open house as a show of solidarity against press censorship. That notion had not crossed his mind until he read such comments, and he’s not sure how he would have reacted on the spot if another reporter had been barred from the event. After reflecting on the issue, he agrees that a media-wide boycott indeed would have made a dramatic statement, but he understands that other reporters felt the need to inform their readers about the open house and the status of BVI Airways. Moreover, he thinks that the fact that other media reported prominently on the Beacon’s ban from the event was a sufficient show of solidarity. He hopes that other media houses will continue to report on the Beacon ban if it extends to other BVI Airways events, such as any celebration of its inaugural flight to Miami — if and when that happens.

Park success

A Beaconite who lives in Road Town couldn’t be happier about the success of the Queen Elizabeth II Park, where he often jogs. Whenever he goes there, he sees several residents enjoying the green space. They exercise, play, picnic, hang out on the benches, or take part in events such as the Easter egg hunt that was held there on Monday. The Beaconite is also pleased that the park has been well maintained since it officially opened last June. He hopes it will serve as an example for other green spaces around the territory.

Be considerate

There’s never a shortage of selfish drivers. On Tuesday, a Beaconite was very disappointed in the driver of a maroon Jeep Cherokee. The driver selfishly pulled over at the traffic lights at Admin Drive to speak with another driver in the opposite lane. The inconsiderate move almost caused an accident. This reporter couldn’t help but think there should be more police officers on patrol at such areas, especially around lunchtime.

Gambling pays?

A Beaconite who just returned from a vacation to Las Vegas has a solution for solving any of the territory’s financial woes: Open a government-run casino! Though this would of course involve a change in legislation, people apparently don’t mind when you take their money, as long as you do it in a fun environment with lots of flashing lights and exciting noises. The Beaconite speaks from experience. In her attempt to win a red BMW convertible, she lost a few hundred dollars to a slot machine. Yet she still doesn’t feel angry at all. In fact, she knows she came really close to winning, and if she went back she’s certain that car would be hers with only a few more spins.

Anegada adventure

A Beaconite had his best weekend since moving to the Virgin Islands over the Easter holiday. He went to Anegada with a group of friends and camped not far from the beach. He would like to thank the Anegada resident — who will remain nameless — who allowed them to squat on his private property. The Beaconite always appreciates his trips to Anegada: Without fail, the residents are friendly and the beaches offer numerous fun activities. Some of the Beaconite’s group took advantage of the world-class kiteboarding spots, while others explored the surrounding reefs via snorkel and mask. While snorkelling, the Beaconite saw a nurse shark that was about six feet long. Though that may not be a surprising sight for VI divers, it was an exciting — and slightly nerve-racking — experience for someone who has not gotten his scuba certification yet and normally only glimpses parrot fish.

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