The British Virgin Islands is about to witness the rebirth of a community treasure with the grand reopening of "Miss Tina's Shop Your Community Grocer." Behind this revival stands Ms. Perline Scatliffe-Leonard, a figure synonymous with dedication and service, embarking on a mission to honor her grandmother, Eglantine Elizabeth "Miss Tina" Tomas-Venzen, and her remarkable legacy.
Miss Tina, who navigated the hardships of early loss and responsibility after the tragic death of her father, Joseph "Jenal" Tomas, captain of the ship Perseverance, emerged as a cornerstone of resilience and community service in Long Look. The ship, lost at sea, took all lives onboard, leaving behind a legacy of bravery and determination. Miss Tina’s endeavors, from tending her family's provision grounds to managing a chicken pen and a brick oven at home, exemplified her disciplined approach to life and business, laying the groundwork for her store to become a hub of community life and innovation.
Drawing on this rich heritage, Ms. Perline Scatliffe-Leonard, whose career spans over three decades of public service, including a notable tenure as the Director of the Water and Sewerage Department, is now poised to reintroduce Miss Tina’s Shop to the community. Her transition into politics, marked by a campaign that highlighted community empowerment, youth development, and heritage preservation, underscores her deep commitment to societal betterment.
Scheduled for March 19, 2024, the grand reopening of Miss Tina's Shop in Long Look, across from the Long Look Park, is more than a commercial endeavor; it's a tribute to a matriarch whose life story is a beacon of resilience, service, and familial dedication. Under Scatliffe-Leonard's guidance, the shop will offer a curated selection of healthy fresh food and traditional goods, reflecting a balance between maintaining the shop's historical healthy roots and adapting to contemporary health and nutritional needs.
Miss Tina was a pioneer, and the first in Long Look to electrify her store, paving the way for modern conveniences in her community. Today, Scatliffe-Leonard aims to mirror this pioneering spirit by focusing on health and affordability, ensuring that the community has access to quality food options. The store will blend traditional offerings with modern preferences, featuring fresh produce, canned goods, and traditional sweets, all carefully selected to promote the community's health and economic well-being.
A touching aspect of the family's legacy is the sale of their farm in Greenland to the government for $1.00. Initially, the land wasn't used for anything besides cattle and sheep playing and hiding from eachother. However, The Long Look Cemetery no longer had space and could not take any more burials. Eventually, a portion of the land that is used as the Greenland Cemetery was sold. This act of generosity exemplifies the family's commitment to the community's welfare, a value that Miss Tina's Shop seeks to continue.
As "Miss Tina's Shop" prepares to welcome the community once again, it embodies the spirit of Miss Tina, her resilience, and her unwavering commitment to her community. This grand reopening is not merely a business launch; it's an invitation to celebrate a legacy that has significantly impacted the community. It's an opportunity for the community to reconnect with its roots while embracing a future where tradition and health converge.
Miss Tina's Shop is set to become a place where the legacy of community service, resilience, and family dedication continues to thrive, offering not just groceries but a space where the community can come together. Scatliffe-Leonard's journey from public service to political aspirations, and now to reviving her grandmother's legacy, highlights a profound commitment to service, community, and heritage.
This reopening marks the beginning of a new chapter for "Miss Tina's Shop," where history and modernity blend seamlessly, creating a space that nourishes the body, spirit, and community ties. It's a testament to the belief that through remembering our past and embracing the future, we can build stronger, healthier communities. The community is invited to join in the celebration, to experience not just the continuation of a legacy but to be part of a living history that honors the past while looking forward to the future.