Nice boats!
The Beacon would like to announce the winner of its Facebook boat photo contest. William Torrillo’s “Sunset at Soggy’s, White Bay, Jost Van Dyke” was “liked” by 152 Facebook users in the final round. Beaconites congratulate Mr. Torrillo for coming out on top in a tough competition, which drew 232 entries. He will receive a day trip for two on White Squall II. The Beacon plans to host other Facebook photo contests in the future, and invites readers to submit ideas — or photos — for consideration.
A free press
A Beaconite covering the courts was approached this week by a defendant, who said, in language not printable in the Beacon, that he didn’t want his name in the newspaper. After the exchange, a bystander walked up to the Beaconite and expressed her support for the freedom of the press, saying that not everyone is familiar with the concept. The Beaconite understands the reluctance of a criminal defendant to see his name in print, but is grateful that readers support the Beacon’s efforts to faithfully report on the territory’s judicial system.
Ton vs. tonne
Until last week, one Beaconite thought that the word “tonne” was simply the British spelling for “ton.” He was wrong, as letter writer William Walker pointed out. It turns out that the word “tonne” typically denotes a metric tonne, equal to 1,000 kilograms, or about 2,204 pounds. A ton, on the other hand, is equal to just 2,000 pounds. Unfortunately, the Beaconite who edited Mr. Walker’s June 16 letter, “Article inspires thoughts on tourism,” replaced “ton” with “tonne” throughout. In so doing, he altered the meaning of the article. The Beaconite apologises for the mistake, and wants to say thanks a ton to Mr. Walker for pointing it out.
Dancers of all ages
One is never too young — or too old — to learn. A Beaconite was reminded of that statement this weekend as she covered the BVI Dance Fest. During the show, participants as young as 3 took the stage. The youngsters looked cheerful, even though a few of them didn’t dance the routines perfectly. At another recent assignment, a senior citizen who relies on a cane to walk stood and moved her waist to fungi music. The Beaconite was inspired by all the dancers.
Making amends
A Beaconite is happy to report that a ferry company has finally made amends for a bad experience he and his mother had in early May. The pair tried to take a Road Town Fast Ferry boat to Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, but it stopped in St. John, apparently after experiencing engine trouble. After more than an hour’s wait, during which the ferry captain never explained the situation, the passengers were told to take another ferry to Red Hook. There, they had to pay for their own taxi to Charlotte Amalie. The disgruntled Beaconite later complained to the ferry company. After several calls and e-mails, he is pleased to report that RTFF has provided two complimentary one-way tickets to St. Thomas. The Beaconite is satisfied with this resolution, and he thanks the company for hearing his complaint.
Citizenship lessons
A Beaconite attended a ceremony for new permanent residents in the Virgin Islands, and she was pleased to hear officials urge the 64 certificate recipients to follow and get involved in local current events, rather than just living here. Like many journalists, the Beaconite feels that education about local news and politics is one of the fundamental requirements for an informed democracy and a good government. Especially as election season heats up, she hopes everyone will get involved in a way that’s appropriate for them, whether it’s joining a committee, learning what the candidates stand for, or — most importantly — voting.