Gun Crime & Security: Acting Interim Police Commissioner Richard Ullger says gun crime is “rife,” with RVIPF seizing 18 illegal firearms since the start of the year, warning that firearms are tied to both crime and the drug trade. Drugs & Borders: RVIPF also took part in a major international operation that led to the seizure of more than 4.8 tonnes of cocaine, with the BVI described as a transshipment point for drugs heading to the US. Elections & Accountability: Businesswoman Dr Arlene L. Smith-Thompson has launched an Independent At-Large bid, arguing party politics has failed and promising focus on crime, water, education, and faster government services. Water Politics: Former Speaker Julian Willock says the territory’s water woes worsened under the NDP, calling for more desalination plants. Sports: Reno C. Mittelholzer makes the West Indies 14-man squad for the IMC Over-40s 45-over World Cup in Guyana. Football Fixtures: TCI is set to host Concacaf Nations League matches against Montserrat and the BVI starting Sept. 23. Local Economy: Aaron Parillon claims the suspension of horse racing at Ellis Thomas Downs has cost the BVI over $20M in lost revenue. Road Works: The eastbound lane between Fort Recovery and Cox Heath is scheduled to reopen, with crews moving to the westbound lane next. Health: A local call is renewed for peritoneal dialysis as a feasible option for kidney patients in the Virgin Islands. Tourism Spotlight: CMEx will honour BVI tourism leader Natasha Chalwell at its Dec. 6 awards event. Tech for Islanders: Apple TV and Apple Arcade are now bundled into iCloud+ in more than 100 countries, including the British Virgin Islands.