Gov. John deJongh Jr. has announced administrative leave for government employees in recognition of the 58th anniversary of V.I. Carnival.
In making the proclamation, the governor said, "The Virgin Islands Carnival has become one of the region’s top festivals, attracting thousands of persons to islands and during this historical and festive season, hundreds of families, friends, visitors and supporters will be visiting the territory to enjoy and partake in both our cultural activities and the sights and sounds of Carnival."
DeJongh noted that the annual Carnival celebration provides a tremendous financial boost to our economy and helps to promote a greater understanding and appreciation of Carnival and our culture. "I have authorized commissioners and agency heads to grant administrative leave to non-essential employees in order to encourage greater participation in the food fair," the governor said, "and to enhance the celebration of Virgin Islands Carnival by all residents and visitors."
The leave will be granted as follows:
– St. Thomas – St. John district:
Wednesday, April 28—12 noon to 5 p.m. for the Food, Arts and Crafts Fair.
Thursday, April 29—8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for J’ouvert.
– Territory-wide:
Friday, April 30—8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for the Children’s Parade.
Further closings:
All the territory’s public schools will close April 26 through April 30, according to Juel Anderson, Dept. of Education public relations director.
The University of the Virgin Islands will hold no classes April 29 through May 1 for Carnival recess. However, UVI’s business and administrative offices will be open April 29. All UVI offices will be closed April 20.
All Saints Cathedral School, Wesleyan Academy and the Moravian School will close April 28 through April 30. Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic High School will close April 26 through April 30.
Montessori School will close one day, April 30.
Banco Popular and FirstBank will close at noon April 28, open at noon April 29 and close all day Friday. Scotiabank will close April 28 at 1 p.m., open at noon April 29 and close all day Friday.
Supermarkets will keep regular hours. The Fruit Bowl will close May 1.
Parking is allowed on the St. Thomas waterfront apron since the Ft. Christian parking lot is closed for Carnival Village, according to Melody Rames, VI Police Department public relations officer.
