A St. Croix man is facing robbery and reckless endangerment charges after being served with two arrest warrants and a search warrant, the V.I. Police Department reported Thursday.
The robbery occurred January 26, by Valmy Thomas Sporting Goods, where Darnley N. Petersen, along with two others, robbed an adult at gunpoint. The reckless endangerment occurred March 1, on Prince Street, Christiansted, where Peterson was caught on surveillance camera firing his firearm while others were present, according to the report.
The search warrant was executed at a family member’s home, and during the search of the dwelling, a fully loaded firearm with a loaded extended magazine was recovered along with marijuana. Petersen, 22-years-old, was arrested and taken into custody without incident for both charges. The bail was set separately at $50,000 and $75,000 for each incident, the report stated.
Sen. Donna Frett-Gregory said she plans to work with her colleagues to override Gov. Albert Bryan Jr.’s veto of a bill that would prevent employers from asking about an job applicant’s criminal history until after they have been interviewed and offered a position.
Sen. Donna Frett Gregory (Photo by Barry Leerdam)
The measure — Bill No. 35-0115, an act repealing title 24 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 17, subchapter II, “Limited Use of Criminal Records in Hiring Practices” — was passed unanimously by the Legislature last month and is aimed at helping people who have previously been incarcerated or arrested have a fair chance at employment.
The governor announced earlier Wednesday that he was vetoing the bill, citing concerns about “overreaching components … particularly the severe criminal penalty for employers and the absence of a cap on damages for job applicants.”
“I applaud the Senate for passing such a forward-thinking measure aimed at advancing employment opportunities for individuals in the Territory,” Bryan wrote. “I respectfully request the Legislature to amend the measure by removing the criminal penalty against employers and imposing a cap on damages for applicants/employees. Additionally, the declaration of policy in section 465(b) should align with the language of the Act for consistency. These adjustments would ensure that the measure achieves its intended goal without unduly burdening employers and will provide clarity. I eagerly anticipate the approval of a revised revision of this bill.”
However, Frett-Gregory said the language that Bryan objected to is already part of existing law. “It’s been on the books for almost six years. I am willing to work with the Governor’s Office, fellow Senators, and stakeholders to rework that language to address any concerns that employers may have,” she said in a press release responding to the veto announcement, “but that revision should be done in separate legislation and not hold up this one.”
According to the senator, Bill No. 35-0115 simply carried over civil and criminal penalties the Legislature approved in 2018 when it passed Act No. 8134. “These penalty provisions were added before I joined the Legislature and are found in Title 24, section 468 of the Virgin Islands Code,” Frett-Gregory said. “So, the rationale for vetoing the Bill because of penalty provisions that are already law is somewhat inaccurate.”
The message seemed to irk Bryan, who “replied all” to the email that delivered the press release to the media and government officials, writing, “After our meeting and you state you understand why it was vetoed you release this? Really?”
Frett-Gregory said she plans to “collaborate with my colleagues to chart a path forward. April is Second Chance Month, and we need to give our neighbors, family, and friends a fighting chance to get their foot in the door to show that they have learned from their mistake,” she said.
The bottom line is that ban the box legislation — so called because it eliminates the criminal history question on an initial job application — works, the senator said, noting that 36 states and many municipalities have similar measures, some of which include penalty provisions like those found in existing Virgin Islands law.
“The bill does not force employers to hire anyone, nor does it prevent them from conducting a criminal background check or setting a probationary period. It only delays that criminal background check until later in the onboarding process — after the employer has vetted the potential applicant based on their qualifications,” Frett-Gregory said.
“Based on the challenges with our workforce in the territory, we can no longer wait to give previously incarcerated or arrested persons a foot in the door — a door that leads to gainful employment, economic stability, and support for children and families. As legislators it is our duty to ensure that legislation opens doors and create opportunities not close them,” she said.
Bryan approved the following bills and resolutions that were passed by the 35th Legislature at its session on March 25:
Bill No. 35-0133— An Act establishing a scholarship program to support individuals interested in pursuing a career in the maritime industry in the Virgin Islands.
Bill No. 35-0172— An Act relating to the adoption of nationally recognized consensus-based building codes and standards.
Bill No. 35-0178 — An Act allowing for the automatic expungement of arrest records upon a finding that the arrest lacked probable cause and relating to public records to designate expunged criminal records as confidential records.
Bill No. 35-0182 — An Act designating the existing provisions and adding a subchapter II relating to the nonconsensual dissemination of sexually explicit images.
Bill No. 35-0196 — An Act establishing a deadline for the Government Employees Retirement System to resume the personal loan program, remove the $10,000,000 annual aggregate amount and the 8 percent interest rate cap, to limit the System’s liability to $75,000, and set a parameter in section 717 that all loans must be structured such that the payoff date occurs before the member reaches age 70.
Bill No. 35-0218 — An Act relating to unemployment benefits by: reducing the number of weeks that unemployment benefits can be received; increasing the statute of limitations for the collection of overpayments of unemployment benefits from claimants and for delinquent employer contribution and implementing a 10-year record retention period for employers.
Bill No. 35-0226 — An Act establishing a minimum default amount for child support.
Bill No. 35-0237 — An Act recognizing the month of March as Girl Scouts Month.
Bill No. 35-0249 — An Act authorizing the reprogramming of the remaining unused proceeds of the Series 2016 Emergency First Responder Line of Credit to assist the Virgin Islands Police Department in offsetting costs associated with hosting the June 2024 National Alliance of State Drug Enforcement Agencies International Symposium.
Additionally, Bryan approved the following zoning measures:
Bill No. 35-0213, Bill No. 35-0233, Bill No. 35-0234, Bill No. 35-0235; and approved the following leases: Bill No. 35-0077, Bill No. 35-0211, Bill No. 35-0225, Bill No. 35-0245 and Bill No.35-0246.
Bryan also approved the following honor bills:
Bill No. 35-0107 — an Act posthumously honoring and commending Dr. Fenella Cooper for her contributions to the field of education, sports and culture and naming the University of the Virgin Islands tennis courts in her honor.
Bill No. 35-0184 — an Act posthumously honoring and commending Private Viggo E. Sewer
Bill No. 35-0208 — an Act honoring and commending Bernice Alma Turnbull for her lifetime of service and dedication to the people of the Virgin Islands and naming the Finance Department’s building located at No. 2314 Kronprindsens Gade, Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, “The Bernice Alma Turnbull Finance Administrative Building.”
Bill No. 35-0223 — an Act to honor and commend Bishop Dr. William Alfred Industrious for his service to the people of the Virgin Islands through his transportation service and designating that a portion of Gamle Gade be renamed “Bishop Dr. William A. Industrious Street.”
Bryan acknowledged the Legislature’s favorable action on the nominations of Harold W.L. Willocks as a Supreme Court justice; Averil George as the commissioner of the Human Services Department; Antonio Stevens as the director of Virgin Islands Fire and Emergency Medical Services; Maurice Muia as board member of the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority; May Adams Cornwall as a member from the district of St. Croix for the Virgin Islands Coastal Zone Management Commission; and Dr. Nathaniel Olive and Carlos Robles as members of the Board of Supervisors on the Virgin Islands Conservation District
Bryan also acknowledged:
Resolution No. 1910 (Bill No. 35-0116) — A Resolution honoring and commending Honorary Brig. Gen. Leayle Gerard Galiber for his leadership in the Virgin Islands National Guard and his dedication to his country and to the people of the Virgin Islands.
Resolution No. 1911 (Bill No. 35-0247) — A Resolution requiring the Virgin Islands Public Services Commission to file an official complaint on behalf of the people of the Virgin Islands against Liberty Latin America, Liberty Mobile USVI and Liberty Mobile Puerto Rico with the Federal Communications Commission.
The Casino Control Commission voted Thursday in favor of approving the initial license application for VIGL Operations LLC to operate a casino at the Randal “Doc” James Racetrack on St. Croix. (Source photo by Diana Dias)
In a unanimous vote Thursday, the Virgin Islands Casino Control Commission approved the initial license application for VIGL Operations LLC to operate a casino at the Randal “Doc” James Racetrack on St. Croix.
The momentous vote was witnessed by about 20 people at the Casino Control Commission office in Orange Grove. VIGL was also approved for a two-year renewal of the current license it holds for its operations at the Caravelle Hotel and Casino. This comes after a hearing that was held on behalf of the Casino Control Commission in February to listen to testimonies.
After the decision, the Casino Control Commission Chairman Marvin Pickering shared some thoughts stating, “…an initial application is for a period of one year and then it’s renewed for a second term. Next year it will be renewed for two years.”
Referencing the application process, Pickering said, “the investigation was lengthy and exhausting. The initial reports of the commission had some issues. So, we requested supplemental reports and after that we had to go back and make sure the commissioners were all comfortable with making a favorable decision, and that was achieved.”
Flamboyant Park Horsemen Association President, Elroy Bates, Jr. shared some optimism, but concern. “I’m happy but concerned. I’m not sure how much VIGL can get done in a year,” he said.
CFO of VIGL Andrew Dubuque also shared his excitement about the commission’s decision and expressed his willingness to move forward and work with the Casino Control Commission.
“We are very excited that the Casino Control Commission and the Division of Gaming Enforcement and all the staff that have worked so hard to get us where we are today. This is exactly what we need to move forward. We have been at this since 2016 and then the hurricane and pandemic happened. Since then, essentially, we have been working towards this day to keep going,” he said.
Dubuque continued, “I’m a businessman and I am motivated to get things moving. There’s a reason why the Casino Control Commission and Division of Gaming Enforcement are here. They are here to make sure everything is according to the act and laws. We are excited for this opportunity.”
In attendance was Senate President, Novelle E. Francis, Jr., who said “I feel good about the decision, and I hope it’s a path forward. We have been waiting for a long time for this to be made so we welcome the decision. The ball is in VIGL’s court at least for what they promise to deliver at the Randall “Doc” Racetrack. I implore them to at least make a start. I know that things are rather difficult now in terms of construction and they are in a race for time.”
Francis also thanked the Casino Control Commission for its decision and said that the Senate will do whatever they can from their end to move this project forward.
Members of the Casino Control Commission include Pickering, Commissioner Carolyn P. Hermon-Percell, Commissioner Luther F. Renee and Executive Director Linda I. Smith.
Senators attending a Committee of the Whole meeting Wednesday seemed to find consensus on two zoning matters presented by the Department of Planning and Natural Resources.
But a third application for a zoning change to allow two “single-family” residences on St. John to function as lodging houses – with 12 individual tenants each – resulted in hours of discussion.
The multifamily dwelling project built out of upgraded shipping containers drew much controversy when it was presented to the public in June 2023.
Senators did not vote on Wednesday on any of the zoning requests presented during the Committee of the Whole Meeting. Voting will be held in subsequent sessions.
Senators react favorably toward rezoning for new Dept. of Public Works headquarters on St. John
Map shows the location of DPW’s Susannaberg site which must be rezoned to take advantage of federal disaster recovery funding. (Screenshot from a Senate session of the Committee of the Whole Wednesday)
Senators heard testimony regarding a zoning change to allow the Dept. of Public Works to come into compliance with territorial law by updating the zoning category for its St. John headquarters at Parcel No. 6A Est. Susannaberg.
The 2.44-acre site, currently zoned R-2 – Low Density Residential, has been used for maintenance and office space for nearly 40 years. Maintenance activities are not allowed on property with R-2 designation.
Photo shows existing condition of DPW’s hurricane-ravaged maintenance building in Est. Susannaberg. (Screenshot from a Senate session of the Committee of the Whole Wednesday)
DPW is seeking to correct that inconsistency as well as to put all government-owned property within the P- Public zoning category.
The change is also necessary to access federal disaster funding to rebuild the former structure which was destroyed by hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017.
Conceptual drawing of new DPW headquarters on St. John. (Screenshot from a Senate session of the Committee of the Whole Wednesday)
DPW Commissioner Derek Gabriel said in addition to offices and vehicle storage bays, the upgraded site will include an above ground cistern, a retention pond for run-off, a waste oil collection facility, and a new sewage treatment plant.
Once the zoning change has been implemented, officials said they will need six to eight months to secure permits and put the project out to bid, and another 24 months for construction. They declined to give senators an estimate of the costs at this early stage in the bidding process.
Several senators stated their intentions to vote favorably for the zoning change.
Senators discuss rezoning request to allow a restaurant and smoothie bar in Estate Thomas
Dionne Carty Jackson testifies on behalf of family members seeking a zoning variance for a restaurant/ juice bar. (Screenshot from a Senate session of the Committee of the Whole Wednesday)
Dionne Carty Jackson presented her request to secure a zoning variance for a family-owned property on Lot 3 on Second Ave. in Estate Thomas.
Jackson said that the storm-damaged structure in a largely residential neighborhood had been “grandfathered” for commercial use in the past; however, more than three years had passed since the building has been used for business, so the “grandfather” exemption has expired.
A photo shows the property in Estate Thomas that is being considered for zoning variance for a restaurant/juice bar. (Screenshot from a Senate session of the Committee of the Whole Wednesday)
Jackson said her father, Joseph Carty, wanted to use the family property to operate a takeout restaurant specializing in local and Spanish cuisine as well as offer fresh-fruit smoothies.
When senators asked Jackson whether she would commit to not serving alcoholic beverages on the premises, she readily agreed. Jackson said she hoped students from Charlotte Amalie High School would patronize the restaurant/juice bar, and the sale of alcoholic beverages would not be appropriate for her target customers.
A map shows the site of a proposed restaurant/juice bar in Estate Thomas. (Screenshot from a Senate session of the Committee of the Whole Wednesday)
Senators also questioned Jackson about parking. Jackson said the four parking spaces on the premises should be sufficient to allow customers to stop by to pick up their orders.
Sen. Donna Frett-Gregory also questioned Jackson about plans for rebuilding the hurricane-ravaged second floor of the structure. Jackson said she did not have a timeline in place, but the family did have plans to move forward on rebuilding the second floor once the restaurant was up and running.
Nicholas D’Amour winning the semi-finals match against Argentina and securing his place in the 2024 Olympics. (Submitted photo)
The Virgin Islands will have a representative at the 2024 Summer Olympics in the recurve archery category.
Nicholas D’Amour earned a quota in this category during the Olympic Games Continental Qualifier, April 7-9, in Medellín, Colombia, according to a release.
His spot was secured after he won an exciting semi-final match against Argentina’s Mario Jajarabilla when he made a nearly perfect shot in the one arrow shoot-off, the release stated.
According to the release, D’Amour led the qualifying rounds with a score of 673, just one ahead of Colombia’s Santiago Arcila. In the elimination rounds, he won four straight matches over — Guyana’s Wayne De Abreu 6-0, Venezuela’s Ricardo Vasquez 7-1, Colombia’s Andres Hernandez Vera 7-1, and Jajarabilla 6-5.
For D’Amour, who ranks in the top 10 in the world, this will be his second trip to the Olympic Games, previously attending the Tokyo Games in 2021, stated the release.
D’Amour will now start the three stages of the World Cup series with competitions in Shanghai, China April 23-28; Yecheon, Korea May 21-26; and Antalya, Turkey June 18-23. He will also compete in Porec, Croatia for the European Grand Prix, June 3-8. These events are critical world-ranking events leading up to his performance in the Summer Olympics, the release stated.
One of the soon-to-be-open workout areas on the Davis fitness trail at Magens Bay. (Source photo by Shaun A. Pennington)
It did not take long after “Mac,” as he was known by everyone, died in September 2021 for his family to determine that they needed to somehow honor his lifelong love for and deep commitment to St. Thomas’ Magens Bay.
Elliott “Mac” Davis at the New York City Marathon. (Submitted photo)
His wife of 44 years, Deborah Kreke Davis, known by everyone as “Debbie,” said recently, “As a semi-government agency, Magens Bay Authority cannot accept donations.” So, back to the drawing board they went.
A fund was established at the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands where people could make donations in honor of the departed Elliott McIver Davis and where the family could deposit its monetary contribution.
After several conversations with the MBA board, it was decided that the best way to acknowledge Mac’s enormous contributions to the park, which had been deeded to the people of the Virgin Islands in perpetuity by Arthur Fairchild in 1947, would be to create a fitness trail where locals and tourists alike could enhance their physical well-being while enjoying the beauty of one of the world’s 10 most beautiful beaches.
Mac was fully committed to physical fitness, along with being a marathon runner he also biked, worked out, paddle boarded and of course swam.
Following in her father’s footsteps, daughter Elizabeth Voigt, who ran the New York City half marathon in March, said earlier this month, “Exercise is good for the soul.” Elizabeth also ran half of the eight marathons that Mac completed with her father.
Mac’s namesake, Elliott McIver Davis Jr., hit the ground running recently, and first-born son Joseph is also a runner, completing his first marathon in October.
Granddaughters Stella and Clara Voigt enjoying the beach where Mac played with them. (Source photo by Shaun A. Pennington)
Early this month, hoping to be present for the dedication, two of his three children and three of his five grandchildren arrived on island, along with their significant others.
Elizabeth’s oldest daughter eight-year-old Clara was exceptionally close to her grandfather. “He used to dig big holes and bury me in the sand,” she said. The pair also shared happy times swimming together in the turquoise bay.
It was around the time that Clara and his oldest grandson Gresham were born that Mac – who spent two decades fighting back what he was told early on would be fatal kidney cancer – took up saying in emails and on Facebook, while holding one of his grandchildren in his arms, “To think I might have missed this.”
You might say he won his battle and his reward would be his time on the beach he loved.
Upon retirement from decades of service as an attorney working in various capacities for the Virgin Islands government, he could be found pretty much any day of the week from 2 p.m. on basking on the beach at the far southwestern end that he called his “happy place,” playing music — Alicia Keys in particular, according to son Elliott — and deeply appreciating the life that doctors told him he would never have.
Debbie Davis speaks about her husand’s love of Magens Bay (Source photo by Shaun A. Pennington)
It must be noted that Mac also served on the board of the Magens Bay Authority for more than a decade. “The staff loved and respected him,” Debbie noted. And he loved them.
He was also deeply committed to leaving the beach managed in the way that Fairchild had envisioned. In December 2020, less than a year before he died, Davis penned a strongly worded op-ed piece that appeared in the Source and the V.I. Daily News, roundly criticizing a bill before the V.I. Legislature that sought to politicize the MBA board.
“I consider the sanctuaries of Magens Bay Park and Smith Bay Park to be two of the most precious resources we possess as Virgin Islanders… They hold a special spot in the heart of every Virgin Islander,” no one more than Mac.
So, it will be with gratitude and love that — especially those of us who knew him well — we will utilize the fitness trail that bears his name while holding him in our hearts — which should be pumping wildly by the time we finish working out.
Elliott McIver Davis endured two decades of cancer treatments which gave him 19 years he thought he would never have. He beat the cancer only to be taken down at the age of 70 by vascular disease.
But, as Debbie put it while enjoying the company of her children and grandchildren not far from Mac’s “happy place,” we will “always feel his presence on this beach.”
The end of the day near Mac’s “happy place.” (Source photo by Shaun A. Pennington)
In Her Own Garden, mixed media (resin, acrylic, alcohol inks), By Amy Gibbs (Photo courtesy CMCARTS)
Spring has arrived with flowers blooming, birds chirping, and V.I. artists showing their creations at the Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts in downtown Frederiksted at an opening April 20, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
The opening reception will feature the versatile musicians, “Baz n Dem” at 6:30 p.m., with the music continuing through 8 p.m. Chef Chevy will provide small bites for the culinary delights of the patrons.
“Rebirth” is a celebration of the arts ranging in dimensions, colors, and mediums from artists on St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John.
Artist/curator Lucien Downes has collaborated with CMCARTS to stimulate the feelings of spring for the patrons of the arts. The upstairs gallery walls are filled with the exciting works of over 20 artists from across the V.I. territory.
Before Twilight, transfers and acrylic on wood panel, by Sigi Torinus (Photo courtesy CMCARTS)
“I have curated many shows, but this exhibit has some of the most stunning pieces I have seen in a long time,” Downes said. “The artists have gone above and beyond my expectations for this spring-themed exhibit.”
The seasonal spring equinox is visited in the arts with realms of rebirth, renewal, new beginnings, and enlightenment. This is the time of year where movement and growth are embraced. The artists have chosen to interpret conceptually broad dialogues or literal translations…running the gamut in the presentation of their creations.
Downes’ approach to the theme of Rebirth was the information he gained some years ago about the Gregorian calendar reform with respect to the equinoxes. “It’s the beginning that I was intrigued with – how spring is viewed – and how people explore the theme – the spiritual realm. It’s a whole other world, so interesting, and so much a part of our being. I felt I should do this…engage in this concept that brings the world ‘alive’ in so many ways.”
Alive is just what Downes has curated at CMCARTS showing the works of over 20 artists filling the upstairs galleries with the theme of the Spring Equinox.
Spring Bouquet, acrylic on canvas by Gene Rotter (Photo courtesy CMCARTS)
“We all have a vision of spring,” CMCARTS Executive Director Lisa Mordhorst said. “It could be pastels, flowers, green, plants…and yet we all may have some slightly different takes on the spring Rebirth as we are seeing in the very exciting and very powerful works submitted.”
Mordhorst said, “there are some artists who have changed their style with this show, and that’s interesting.”
“We at CMCARTS really appreciate Lucien’s ability to draw together a larger community of artists within the Virgin Islands, so each year we are happy to give him space to curate his shows,” Mordhorst added.
This is definitely a strong show. Our V.I. artists are elevating themselves each time Lucien curates an exhibit. We are always impressed and so proud of our community artists, Mordhorst continued.
Zemi, acrylic on linen by Barbara Gelardi.(Photo courtesy CMCARTS)
There is interpretive work that patrons will view with all types of movement. There is some work in black and white, which is very interesting and different from the usual colors of spring. There is also three-dimensional work and some surprises hanging in the windows catching the light – the light of spring, Mordhorst shared with the Source.
Downes and Mordhorst find delight in this spring showcase of V.I. artists and they encourage the community to come out and spring into step with Rebirth – the Spring Equinox. The exhibit will close May 25.
Anyone wanting more information about the exhibit or the museum, can call 340-772-2622.
An article about earthquakes in the Caribbean is available here!
An informational video about drought conditions in the USVI is available here!
FRIDAY’S WEATHER FORECAST: 4/19/24Happy Friday!According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Friday will be mostly sunny with scattered showers. The high temperature will be approximately 87°F, 30.5°C, with winds out of the northeast at about 7 mph. The possibility of rain on Friday is approximately 50%. However, a mass of drier air will help to limit precipitation. Friday night will be mostly cloudy, with a chance of scattered showers. The low temperature will be approximately 77°F, 25°C, and winds out of the north-northeast at about 11 to 13 mph. The possibility of rain on Friday night is approximately 50%.Below: Infrared satellite imagery obtained at 6:00 p.m. AST on Thursday indicates a partly cloudy sky around the USVI and Puerto Rico. Precipitation is possible.MARINE WEATHER UPDATEThe NWS has noted that a small northeasterly swell is expected to impact the islands over the weekend. However, according to forecast information, the swell does not appear to be very significant. Additionally, gusty winds may generate some wind-driven, choppy seas.On Friday, seas will be approximately 2 to 4 feet, with occasional seas up to 5 feet and a swell period of 11 seconds. Winds will be out of the northeast at about 5 to 10 knots.On Friday night, seas will be approximately 2 to 4 feet, with occasional seas up to 5 feet and a swell period of 10 seconds. Winds will be out of the north-northeast at about 5 to 10 knots.The water temperature is approximately 83-84°F, approximately 28°C.Ocean Water Temperature Map from 4/16/24, courtesy of NOAA:
Wave Height Forecast Map courtesy of NWS:
HAZARDOUS CONDITIONSRip Currents: The risk of rip currents is projected to be moderate across most of the region on Friday.
Clear = Low Rip Current Risk
Yellow = Moderate Rip Current Risk
Red = High Rip Current Risk
Learn more about rip current safety in an interview between the NWS and the VI Source here.TROPIC WATCHTropical Activity: The National Hurricane Center does not expect any cyclonic development. However, a possible La Niña Weather Pattern May Spawn an Active 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season. Read more here.
Additionally, Colorado State University Predicts Extremely Active 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season.
Click here to learn tips on being prepared for the 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season.Days Until 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season: 43 Days OBSERVATIONS
Sunrise: 6:01 a.m.
Sunset: 6:38 p.m.
Ocean water temperature: Approximately 83-84°F, approximately 28°C.
UV index: 10+ out of 10 (VERY HIGH)
Thursday’s high temperature: 85°F, 29.4°C
Thursday’s low temperature: 78°F, 25.5°C
Preparation for extreme weather events in the Caribbean, such as earthquakes and tropical cyclones, is important. Residents and visitors in the USVI are encouraged to stay updated on weather events on the V.I. Source Weather page and sign up for alerts from the National Weather Service and the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency.
Mary Josephine Landais
It is with deep sorrow that the family and friends announced the passing of Mary Josephine Landais on March 17, at Roy Lester Schneider Hospital.
Mary Landais is survived by her special friends: Denise Green, Mary Gumbs, Menolita Pratt, Olen Pratt, Pam Springette, Helen Hart, Debra Gottlieb, Julia James, Bernice Samuel, Janice Matthias and Judy Hobson.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend the funeral service on Wednesday, April 24, at Celestial Chapel of Dan Hurley Home for Funerals. the viewing will take place from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., with a service to follow at 10 a.m. Interment will be at Eastern Cemetery, Smith Bay.
Funeral arrangements are under the care of Dan Hurley Home for Funerals and Cremation Centers of St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix.
For online condolences or to share a special memory, visit www.hurleydavisfuneralhome.com
Carnival Exuberance by Lynn Voytershark (Source photo by Elisa McKay)
As Carnival 2024 is quickly approaching, the Virgin Islands Police Department is providing some helpful tips and information for the Carnival season.
There will be absolutely NO SELLING OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES TO MINORS.
If in doubt, have them pull an ID out.
There is absolutely no smoking of any kind (to include the rear of the booths); no vaping, no full-face coverings and no glass containers are allowed in the Village on the J’ouvert route and on the Parade route. The smoking of marijuana is prohibited in public places, bars and restaurants, etc.
Parking will be very limited; however, in coordination with the Department of Public
Works, there will be designated parking areas identified by covered signs in certain areas, but please be very cognizant of where you park. There will still be restricted parking in certain areas. Carpooling is always an option.
Lock your car doors and do not leave visible items in your car.
Try to park in well-lit areas.
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is prohibited.
Walk in groups.
Be vigilant of your surroundings.
Please limit the amount of jewelry you wear. You do not want to draw any unnecessary attention to yourself.
If you find a lost child or lose a child, you should notify the nearest law enforcement officer. You should put your name, phone number and the child’s name on a piece of paper and put it in the child’s pocket.
In case of emergency, there will be several identified entrance and exit points around the Carnival Village.
We are increasing the lighting and surveillance in and around the Carnival Village and surrounding areas.
We will have law enforcement officers assigned to patrol inside and outside every event.
We advise all owners that you be very cognizant of the sale and usage of alcoholic beverages by any minors in your troupes.
If in the event your vehicle is not where you left it upon your return, notify 911 immediately. If your vehicle was towed for any reason by VIPD personnel, you will be instructed to travel to the Richard Callwood Command Records Bureau (Police Station) and pay the towing fee. You will then travel to the Human Services parking lot located south of the Winston Raymo Center (area of the basketball court) and give your receipt to the personnel at the gate to retrieve your vehicle.
Please listen to the host in the village who will brief the public from time to time on events and/or PSAs (Public Service Announcements).
Tips for Juveniles
There will be absolutely NO CONSUMING OF ANY DRUGS OR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES.
No smoking, vaping or glass containers of any kind in the Village.
No weapons.
The Children’s Village closes at midnight.
No unaccompanied minors are to be at any event after 10 p.m. or in the Carnival Village after midnight.
If you cannot locate your guardian, you should notify the nearest law enforcement officer.
Curfew violations will be strictly enforced by the VIPD.
Walk in groups and stay in well-lit areas.
Be vigilant about your surroundings.
Please limit the amount of jewelry you wear. You do not want to draw any unnecessary attention to yourself.
In case of emergency, there will be several identified entrance and exit points around the Carnival Village, or call 911.
The Virgin Islands Police Department thanks the community for their cooperation as we work to ensure a safe and enjoyable Carnival season.
MARINE WEATHER UPDATE
Wave Height Forecast Map courtesy of NWS:
HAZARDOUS CONDITIONS
Clear = Low Rip Current Risk
Yellow = Moderate Rip Current Risk
Red = High Rip Current Risk
