Nov. 28, 2002 – Ten years for a historic building in Christiansted is not a lot of time, but for an art gallery in that building, it represents a lot of artists.
Maria Henle Studio at 55 Company Street is marking its 10th anniversary with the opening of a very special group show on Dec. 5 — of work by each of the artists who have been featured over the years.
"The exhibit promises to be eclectic, varied and refreshing," owner Maria Henle says. Certainly it will be a unique opportunity for art appreciators to see works by so many well-known artists all at one time and place.
Present or former St. Croix artists represented are painters Maud Pierre Charles, Donald Laurent Dahlke, Luca Gasperi, Jeri Hillis, Mark Mulherrin and Kat Pierie; sculptors Philip Hultgren, Larry Lipsky and Sylvia Maratova; and photographers Fritz Henle and Tina Henle. There also will be works by Haitian-born artist Sacha Tebo. Some pieces, Henle says, are coming from as far away as New York and Istanbul.
The opening, with a reception from 5 to 9 p.m., is part of December's ArtThursday gallery walkabout. The exhibition will run through the yearend holidays.
Henle recalls that she first climbed the stairs of 55 Company Street in late November of 1992 in search of an apartment to rent, having resolved to return home from a successful art career in New York. Inside, she found an empty loft, with mottled masonry walls dating from the late 18th century, that had been renovated after Hurricane Hugo. Inspired by the high ceilings and open space, she immediately envisioned not living space but "an artist's working studio/gallery."
Maria Henle Studio soon developed a reputation for showcasing fine art in downtown Christiansted in season as well as serving as the workplace of the painter/owner.
Studio gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. For more information, call 773-7376.
Other ArtThursday offerings
ArtThursday is an event hosted by arts and crafts enterprises withing walking distance of one another in downtown Christiansted on the first Thursday of each month in season.
Also featured on the Dec. 5 gallery walkabout:
Christiansted Gallery — introducing the art of Suzanne Yunka.
Danica Art Gallery — works by Sam Vaughn, La Vaughn Belle and Danica David.
Gallery Gia — solo show of work by Catherine "Chouquette" Giraud.
ib Designs – new earring creations by Whealan Massicott.
Iona Skye Gallery – Judith King: "Vincent Takes a Cruise."
Jewelweed – an inspired collaboration of fine art jewelry by Bonnie Luria and Anita Schultz.
Most venues offer wine and light refreshments. For those in the mood for something more filling after their walk, the nearby Bacchus, Bombay Club, Indies, Kendricks, Rum Runners, Savant, Top Hat and Tutto Bene restaurants offer wine and dessert specials.
Publisher's note : Like the St. Croix Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.
BRYAN TO EDA: FINISH PHONE COMPANY PROBE FIRST
Nov. 28, 2002 – Innovative Telephone has asked for a meeting to discuss terminating its participation in the Economic Development Authority program that gives it nearly 100-percent tax exemptions, but Sen. Adelbert Bryan is urging the EDA not to make any "premature" decisions.
Bryan chairs the Senate Economic Development, Agriculture and Consumer Protection Committee, which recently held two hearings on the telephone company's compliance with the terms of its Economic Development Commission certificate. He wrote this week to the authority's executive director, Frank Schulterbrandt, asking that no Innovative requests be considered until the completion of the EDA's own investigation of the company's compliance with its tax-benefit requirements.
Innovative Telephone made two overtures to the EDA in the midst of a two-month strike by some 310 Innovative Telephone/Innovative Cable TV employees.
The first, a letter from the company president, Samuel Ebbesen, dated Nov. 6 — the day before the second Senate hearing — requested a waiver from its requirement to maintain a minimum of 421 full-time employees, pending the outcome of the strike.
The second, a letter from Innovative Telephone attorney Joel Holt dated Nov. 19, requested a meeting to discuss terminating the company's participation in the EDC benefits program.
The tax-exemption certificate was granted on June 30, 1997, by what was then called the Industrial Development Commission to what was then called V.I. Telephone Corp. — or Vitelco — and will expire on Sept. 30, 2003.
At Bryan's committee meetings on Oct. 31 and Nov. 7 concerning allegations of noncompliance with the agreement, few answers were forthcoming. Prior to the first hearing, Innovative counsel wrote Bryan to say the company would not take part, calling it a "thinly disguised" attempt at getting involved in the ongoing labor dispute.
At that first hearing, the EDA's assistant chief executive officer, Nadine Marchena, provided little information about Innovative's compliance record. She said a lack of EDC compliance officers had hindered a comprehensive investigation into the matter but that a report should be completed by December.
She said the review will cover the company's compliance history since 1997, when, in a controversial move in the Schneider administration, it was granted full exemption from property, gross receipts and excise taxes and 90 percent exemption from corporate income taxes.
The EDC, by law, is supposed to issue compliance reports yearly on all beneficiary companies.
Innovative Telephone's benefits package requires the company to:
– Offer a capital investment of $100 million, excluding inventory.
– Employ a minimum of 421 full-time employees, of which no fewer than 80 percent are V.I. residents.
– Provide employees with medical, dental, life and accidental insurance; and 401(k) retirement, savings and employee stock ownership plans.
– Provide ten $1,000 scholarships per year.
– Assist V.I. schools to gain Internet access.
– Contribute $40,000 yearly to the Boys and Girls Club.
– Sponsor youth programs.
– Contribute $5,000 yearly to the St. Croix and St. Thomas Little League Baseball programs.
If Innovative is found deficient in any of those areas, Marchena said, it could face fines or suspension, modification or revocation of its benefits.
The EDA should hold off considering Innovative's waiver request until the compliance investigation is completed, Bryan wrote Schulterbrandt. "To not do so would also undoubtedly jeopardize the benefits to the treasury of the V.I. government and the children's educational benefits as it relates to information technology for the future."
Bryan also said the government's ability to hold Innovative accountable for its commitments would be endangered if the EDA were to terminate the company's tax certificate before penalties are assessed.
Bryan urged the authority to "follow the letter of the law" in making decisions on both Innovative requests. "We must not allow loopholes to be used to exploit the masses, and most importantly the children of the Virgin Islands' future," he wrote.
Publisher's note : Like the St. Thomas Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.
Bryan chairs the Senate Economic Development, Agriculture and Consumer Protection Committee, which recently held two hearings on the telephone company's compliance with the terms of its Economic Development Commission certificate. He wrote this week to the authority's executive director, Frank Schulterbrandt, asking that no Innovative requests be considered until the completion of the EDA's own investigation of the company's compliance with its tax-benefit requirements.
Innovative Telephone made two overtures to the EDA in the midst of a two-month strike by some 310 Innovative Telephone/Innovative Cable TV employees.
The first, a letter from the company president, Samuel Ebbesen, dated Nov. 6 — the day before the second Senate hearing — requested a waiver from its requirement to maintain a minimum of 421 full-time employees, pending the outcome of the strike.
The second, a letter from Innovative Telephone attorney Joel Holt dated Nov. 19, requested a meeting to discuss terminating the company's participation in the EDC benefits program.
The tax-exemption certificate was granted on June 30, 1997, by what was then called the Industrial Development Commission to what was then called V.I. Telephone Corp. — or Vitelco — and will expire on Sept. 30, 2003.
At Bryan's committee meetings on Oct. 31 and Nov. 7 concerning allegations of noncompliance with the agreement, few answers were forthcoming. Prior to the first hearing, Innovative counsel wrote Bryan to say the company would not take part, calling it a "thinly disguised" attempt at getting involved in the ongoing labor dispute.
At that first hearing, the EDA's assistant chief executive officer, Nadine Marchena, provided little information about Innovative's compliance record. She said a lack of EDC compliance officers had hindered a comprehensive investigation into the matter but that a report should be completed by December.
She said the review will cover the company's compliance history since 1997, when, in a controversial move in the Schneider administration, it was granted full exemption from property, gross receipts and excise taxes and 90 percent exemption from corporate income taxes.
The EDC, by law, is supposed to issue compliance reports yearly on all beneficiary companies.
Innovative Telephone's benefits package requires the company to:
– Offer a capital investment of $100 million, excluding inventory.
– Employ a minimum of 421 full-time employees, of which no fewer than 80 percent are V.I. residents.
– Provide employees with medical, dental, life and accidental insurance; and 401(k) retirement, savings and employee stock ownership plans.
– Provide ten $1,000 scholarships per year.
– Assist V.I. schools to gain Internet access.
– Contribute $40,000 yearly to the Boys and Girls Club.
– Sponsor youth programs.
– Contribute $5,000 yearly to the St. Croix and St. Thomas Little League Baseball programs.
If Innovative is found deficient in any of those areas, Marchena said, it could face fines or suspension, modification or revocation of its benefits.
The EDA should hold off considering Innovative's waiver request until the compliance investigation is completed, Bryan wrote Schulterbrandt. "To not do so would also undoubtedly jeopardize the benefits to the treasury of the V.I. government and the children's educational benefits as it relates to information technology for the future."
Bryan also said the government's ability to hold Innovative accountable for its commitments would be endangered if the EDA were to terminate the company's tax certificate before penalties are assessed.
Bryan urged the authority to "follow the letter of the law" in making decisions on both Innovative requests. "We must not allow loopholes to be used to exploit the masses, and most importantly the children of the Virgin Islands' future," he wrote.
Publisher's note : Like the St. Thomas Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.
BRYAN TO EDA: FINISH PHONE COMPANY PROBE FIRST
Nov. 28, 2002 – Innovative Telephone has asked for a meeting to discuss terminating its participation in the Economic Development Authority program that gives it nearly 100-percent tax exemptions, but Sen. Adelbert Bryan is urging the EDA not to make any "premature" decisions.
Bryan chairs the Senate Economic Development, Agriculture and Consumer Protection Committee, which recently held two hearings on the telephone company's compliance with the terms of its Economic Development Commission certificate. He wrote this week to the authority's executive director, Frank Schulterbrandt, asking that no Innovative requests be considered until the completion of the EDA's own investigation of the company's compliance with its tax-benefit requirements.
Innovative Telephone made two overtures to the EDA in the midst of a two-month strike by some 310 Innovative Telephone/Innovative Cable TV employees.
The first, a letter from the company president, Samuel Ebbesen, dated Nov. 6 — the day before the second Senate hearing — requested a waiver from its requirement to maintain a minimum of 421 full-time employees, pending the outcome of the strike.
The second, a letter from Innovative Telephone attorney Joel Holt dated Nov. 19, requested a meeting to discuss terminating the company's participation in the EDC benefits program.
The tax-exemption certificate was granted on June 30, 1997, by what was then called the Industrial Development Commission to what was then called V.I. Telephone Corp. — or Vitelco — and will expire on Sept. 30, 2003.
At Bryan's committee meetings on Oct. 31 and Nov. 7 concerning allegations of noncompliance with the agreement, few answers were forthcoming. Prior to the first hearing, Innovative counsel wrote Bryan to say the company would not take part, calling it a "thinly disguised" attempt at getting involved in the ongoing labor dispute.
At that first hearing, the EDA's assistant chief executive officer, Nadine Marchena, provided little information about Innovative's compliance record. She said a lack of EDC compliance officers had hindered a comprehensive investigation into the matter but that a report should be completed by December.
She said the review will cover the company's compliance history since 1997, when, in a controversial move in the Schneider administration, it was granted full exemption from property, gross receipts and excise taxes and 90 percent exemption from corporate income taxes.
The EDC, by law, is supposed to issue compliance reports yearly on all beneficiary companies.
Innovative Telephone's benefits package requires the company to:
– Offer a capital investment of $100 million, excluding inventory.
– Employ a minimum of 421 full-time employees, of which no fewer than 80 percent are V.I. residents.
– Provide employees with medical, dental, life and accidental insurance; and 401(k) retirement, savings and employee stock ownership plans.
– Provide ten $1,000 scholarships per year.
– Assist V.I. schools to gain Internet access.
– Contribute $40,000 yearly to the Boys and Girls Club.
– Sponsor youth programs.
– Contribute $5,000 yearly to the St. Croix and St. Thomas Little League Baseball programs.
If Innovative is found deficient in any of those areas, Marchena said, it could face fines or suspension, modification or revocation of its benefits.
The EDA should hold off considering Innovative's waiver request until the compliance investigation is completed, Bryan wrote Schulterbrandt. "To not do so would also undoubtedly jeopardize the benefits to the treasury of the V.I. government and the children's educational benefits as it relates to information technology for the future."
Bryan also said the government's ability to hold Innovative accountable for its commitments would be endangered if the EDA were to terminate the company's tax certificate before penalties are assessed.
Bryan urged the authority to "follow the letter of the law" in making decisions on both Innovative requests. "We must not allow loopholes to be used to exploit the masses, and most importantly the children of the Virgin Islands' future," he wrote.
Publisher's note : Like the St. John Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.
Bryan chairs the Senate Economic Development, Agriculture and Consumer Protection Committee, which recently held two hearings on the telephone company's compliance with the terms of its Economic Development Commission certificate. He wrote this week to the authority's executive director, Frank Schulterbrandt, asking that no Innovative requests be considered until the completion of the EDA's own investigation of the company's compliance with its tax-benefit requirements.
Innovative Telephone made two overtures to the EDA in the midst of a two-month strike by some 310 Innovative Telephone/Innovative Cable TV employees.
The first, a letter from the company president, Samuel Ebbesen, dated Nov. 6 — the day before the second Senate hearing — requested a waiver from its requirement to maintain a minimum of 421 full-time employees, pending the outcome of the strike.
The second, a letter from Innovative Telephone attorney Joel Holt dated Nov. 19, requested a meeting to discuss terminating the company's participation in the EDC benefits program.
The tax-exemption certificate was granted on June 30, 1997, by what was then called the Industrial Development Commission to what was then called V.I. Telephone Corp. — or Vitelco — and will expire on Sept. 30, 2003.
At Bryan's committee meetings on Oct. 31 and Nov. 7 concerning allegations of noncompliance with the agreement, few answers were forthcoming. Prior to the first hearing, Innovative counsel wrote Bryan to say the company would not take part, calling it a "thinly disguised" attempt at getting involved in the ongoing labor dispute.
At that first hearing, the EDA's assistant chief executive officer, Nadine Marchena, provided little information about Innovative's compliance record. She said a lack of EDC compliance officers had hindered a comprehensive investigation into the matter but that a report should be completed by December.
She said the review will cover the company's compliance history since 1997, when, in a controversial move in the Schneider administration, it was granted full exemption from property, gross receipts and excise taxes and 90 percent exemption from corporate income taxes.
The EDC, by law, is supposed to issue compliance reports yearly on all beneficiary companies.
Innovative Telephone's benefits package requires the company to:
– Offer a capital investment of $100 million, excluding inventory.
– Employ a minimum of 421 full-time employees, of which no fewer than 80 percent are V.I. residents.
– Provide employees with medical, dental, life and accidental insurance; and 401(k) retirement, savings and employee stock ownership plans.
– Provide ten $1,000 scholarships per year.
– Assist V.I. schools to gain Internet access.
– Contribute $40,000 yearly to the Boys and Girls Club.
– Sponsor youth programs.
– Contribute $5,000 yearly to the St. Croix and St. Thomas Little League Baseball programs.
If Innovative is found deficient in any of those areas, Marchena said, it could face fines or suspension, modification or revocation of its benefits.
The EDA should hold off considering Innovative's waiver request until the compliance investigation is completed, Bryan wrote Schulterbrandt. "To not do so would also undoubtedly jeopardize the benefits to the treasury of the V.I. government and the children's educational benefits as it relates to information technology for the future."
Bryan also said the government's ability to hold Innovative accountable for its commitments would be endangered if the EDA were to terminate the company's tax certificate before penalties are assessed.
Bryan urged the authority to "follow the letter of the law" in making decisions on both Innovative requests. "We must not allow loopholes to be used to exploit the masses, and most importantly the children of the Virgin Islands' future," he wrote.
Publisher's note : Like the St. John Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.
BRYAN TO EDA: FINISH PHONE COMPANY PROBE FIRST
Nov. 28, 2002 – Innovative Telephone has asked for a meeting to discuss terminating its participation in the Economic Development Authority program that gives it nearly 100-percent tax exemptions, but Sen. Adelbert Bryan is urging the EDA not to make any "premature" decisions.
Bryan chairs the Senate Economic Development, Agriculture and Consumer Protection Committee, which recently held two hearings on the telephone company's compliance with the terms of its Economic Development Commission certificate. He wrote this week to the authority's executive director, Frank Schulterbrandt, asking that no Innovative requests be considered until the completion of the EDA's own investigation of the company's compliance with its tax-benefit requirements.
Innovative Telephone made two overtures to the EDA in the midst of a two-month strike by some 310 Innovative Telephone/Innovative Cable TV employees.
The first, a letter from the company president, Samuel Ebbesen, dated Nov. 6 — the day before the second Senate hearing — requested a waiver from its requirement to maintain a minimum of 421 full-time employees, pending the outcome of the strike.
The second, a letter from Innovative Telephone attorney Joel Holt dated Nov. 19, requested a meeting to discuss terminating the company's participation in the EDC benefits program.
The tax-exemption certificate was granted on June 30, 1997, by what was then called the Industrial Development Commission to what was then called V.I. Telephone Corp. — or Vitelco — and will expire on Sept. 30, 2003.
At Bryan's committee meetings on Oct. 31 and Nov. 7 concerning allegations of noncompliance with the agreement, few answers were forthcoming. Prior to the first hearing, Innovative counsel wrote Bryan to say the company would not take part, calling it a "thinly disguised" attempt at getting involved in the ongoing labor dispute.
At that first hearing, the EDA's assistant chief executive officer, Nadine Marchena, provided little information about Innovative's compliance record. She said a lack of EDC compliance officers had hindered a comprehensive investigation into the matter but that a report should be completed by December.
She said the review will cover the company's compliance history since 1997, when, in a controversial move in the Schneider administration, it was granted full exemption from property, gross receipts and excise taxes and 90 percent exemption from corporate income taxes.
The EDC, by law, is supposed to issue compliance reports yearly on all beneficiary companies.
Innovative Telephone's benefits package requires the company to:
– Offer a capital investment of $100 million, excluding inventory.
– Employ a minimum of 421 full-time employees, of which no fewer than 80 percent are V.I. residents.
– Provide employees with medical, dental, life and accidental insurance; and 401(k) retirement, savings and employee stock ownership plans.
– Provide ten $1,000 scholarships per year.
– Assist V.I. schools to gain Internet access.
– Contribute $40,000 yearly to the Boys and Girls Club.
– Sponsor youth programs.
– Contribute $5,000 yearly to the St. Croix and St. Thomas Little League Baseball programs.
If Innovative is found deficient in any of those areas, Marchena said, it could face fines or suspension, modification or revocation of its benefits.
The EDA should hold off considering Innovative's waiver request until the compliance investigation is completed, Bryan wrote Schulterbrandt. "To not do so would also undoubtedly jeopardize the benefits to the treasury of the V.I. government and the children's educational benefits as it relates to information technology for the future."
Bryan also said the government's ability to hold Innovative accountable for its commitments would be endangered if the EDA were to terminate the company's tax certificate before penalties are assessed.
Bryan urged the authority to "follow the letter of the law" in making decisions on both Innovative requests. "We must not allow loopholes to be used to exploit the masses, and most importantly the children of the Virgin Islands' future," he wrote.
Publisher's note : Like the St. Croix Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.
Bryan chairs the Senate Economic Development, Agriculture and Consumer Protection Committee, which recently held two hearings on the telephone company's compliance with the terms of its Economic Development Commission certificate. He wrote this week to the authority's executive director, Frank Schulterbrandt, asking that no Innovative requests be considered until the completion of the EDA's own investigation of the company's compliance with its tax-benefit requirements.
Innovative Telephone made two overtures to the EDA in the midst of a two-month strike by some 310 Innovative Telephone/Innovative Cable TV employees.
The first, a letter from the company president, Samuel Ebbesen, dated Nov. 6 — the day before the second Senate hearing — requested a waiver from its requirement to maintain a minimum of 421 full-time employees, pending the outcome of the strike.
The second, a letter from Innovative Telephone attorney Joel Holt dated Nov. 19, requested a meeting to discuss terminating the company's participation in the EDC benefits program.
The tax-exemption certificate was granted on June 30, 1997, by what was then called the Industrial Development Commission to what was then called V.I. Telephone Corp. — or Vitelco — and will expire on Sept. 30, 2003.
At Bryan's committee meetings on Oct. 31 and Nov. 7 concerning allegations of noncompliance with the agreement, few answers were forthcoming. Prior to the first hearing, Innovative counsel wrote Bryan to say the company would not take part, calling it a "thinly disguised" attempt at getting involved in the ongoing labor dispute.
At that first hearing, the EDA's assistant chief executive officer, Nadine Marchena, provided little information about Innovative's compliance record. She said a lack of EDC compliance officers had hindered a comprehensive investigation into the matter but that a report should be completed by December.
She said the review will cover the company's compliance history since 1997, when, in a controversial move in the Schneider administration, it was granted full exemption from property, gross receipts and excise taxes and 90 percent exemption from corporate income taxes.
The EDC, by law, is supposed to issue compliance reports yearly on all beneficiary companies.
Innovative Telephone's benefits package requires the company to:
– Offer a capital investment of $100 million, excluding inventory.
– Employ a minimum of 421 full-time employees, of which no fewer than 80 percent are V.I. residents.
– Provide employees with medical, dental, life and accidental insurance; and 401(k) retirement, savings and employee stock ownership plans.
– Provide ten $1,000 scholarships per year.
– Assist V.I. schools to gain Internet access.
– Contribute $40,000 yearly to the Boys and Girls Club.
– Sponsor youth programs.
– Contribute $5,000 yearly to the St. Croix and St. Thomas Little League Baseball programs.
If Innovative is found deficient in any of those areas, Marchena said, it could face fines or suspension, modification or revocation of its benefits.
The EDA should hold off considering Innovative's waiver request until the compliance investigation is completed, Bryan wrote Schulterbrandt. "To not do so would also undoubtedly jeopardize the benefits to the treasury of the V.I. government and the children's educational benefits as it relates to information technology for the future."
Bryan also said the government's ability to hold Innovative accountable for its commitments would be endangered if the EDA were to terminate the company's tax certificate before penalties are assessed.
Bryan urged the authority to "follow the letter of the law" in making decisions on both Innovative requests. "We must not allow loopholes to be used to exploit the masses, and most importantly the children of the Virgin Islands' future," he wrote.
Publisher's note : Like the St. Croix Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.
TOP GOLFING TEENS ARE ON CARAMBOLA GREENS
Nov. 28, 2002 – More than a hundred golfers ages 12-17 and their families descended on St. Croix Wednesday to compete at the Carambola Golf Club in the final event of this year's Teens on the Green World Championship Series.
The youngsters, according to the program's chief executive officer, Renny Roker, are from all over the world and are among the best golfers of their age anywhere. "These kids are just unbelievable athletes," he said. "Some of them are shooting in the low 60s and 70s."
Roker, a Crucian with an extensive background as a show business and sports entertainment producer and promoter, is best known locally for having developed the America's Paradise Triathlon, which has since evolved into the St. Croix Half Ironman. He has touted the three-day youth golf tournament — Thanksgiving Day through Saturday — as having the potential to bring a major economic boost to the financially troubled island.
Teens on the Green is a program gaining momentum throughout the nation that encourages young members of minority groups to take golf lessons from top-quality pros, Roker said. The program encourages sportsmanship and scholarship, he added.
The youngsters participating at Carambola come from 40 states and 25 countries and competed at several venues on the mainland earlier this year, according to Roker. He said several Virgin Islands businesses teamed up with the program to provide golf clubs to promising athletes.
The Thanksgiving event is the final stop on this year's tour, Roker said, and is scheduled for international television broadcast, including on BET and The Golf Channel. "This will go to over 120 million homes, and they will be carrying the program in English and Spanish," he said.
Teens on the Green could draw other golfing events to St. Croix, he said. "Every place we've been, many other junior organizations have followed. After our event there will probably be a lot more tournaments coming to the Virgin Islands."
Cosmo Williams, Carambola co-owner, shares Roker's enthusiasm. "This is a godsend for us. It's unimaginably big," Williams said. "The TV exposure alone will go into over 100 million homes, giving people a chance to get to know Carambola."
The adjacent Carambola Resort hotel is at 85-percent occupancy, according to co-owner Mike Mitchell, who said the publicity will be great for future business.
Roker said the earlier stops on the tour have produced some fierce competitions. This week's event is open to the public, with tee-off time daily at 7:30 a.m. For more information, call Roker at 778-3800.
For more information about Teens On The Green, visit the Teens on the Green Web site.
Publisher's note : Like the St. Croix Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.
The youngsters, according to the program's chief executive officer, Renny Roker, are from all over the world and are among the best golfers of their age anywhere. "These kids are just unbelievable athletes," he said. "Some of them are shooting in the low 60s and 70s."
Roker, a Crucian with an extensive background as a show business and sports entertainment producer and promoter, is best known locally for having developed the America's Paradise Triathlon, which has since evolved into the St. Croix Half Ironman. He has touted the three-day youth golf tournament — Thanksgiving Day through Saturday — as having the potential to bring a major economic boost to the financially troubled island.
Teens on the Green is a program gaining momentum throughout the nation that encourages young members of minority groups to take golf lessons from top-quality pros, Roker said. The program encourages sportsmanship and scholarship, he added.
The youngsters participating at Carambola come from 40 states and 25 countries and competed at several venues on the mainland earlier this year, according to Roker. He said several Virgin Islands businesses teamed up with the program to provide golf clubs to promising athletes.
The Thanksgiving event is the final stop on this year's tour, Roker said, and is scheduled for international television broadcast, including on BET and The Golf Channel. "This will go to over 120 million homes, and they will be carrying the program in English and Spanish," he said.
Teens on the Green could draw other golfing events to St. Croix, he said. "Every place we've been, many other junior organizations have followed. After our event there will probably be a lot more tournaments coming to the Virgin Islands."
Cosmo Williams, Carambola co-owner, shares Roker's enthusiasm. "This is a godsend for us. It's unimaginably big," Williams said. "The TV exposure alone will go into over 100 million homes, giving people a chance to get to know Carambola."
The adjacent Carambola Resort hotel is at 85-percent occupancy, according to co-owner Mike Mitchell, who said the publicity will be great for future business.
Roker said the earlier stops on the tour have produced some fierce competitions. This week's event is open to the public, with tee-off time daily at 7:30 a.m. For more information, call Roker at 778-3800.
For more information about Teens On The Green, visit the Teens on the Green Web site.
Publisher's note : Like the St. Croix Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.
HOLIDAY ARTS FEST HAS A NEW VENUE: COMPASS POINT
Nov. 28, 2002 – The Compass Point Arts and Crafts Festival on Saturday and Sunday will offer a traditional kick-off to the holiday shopping season with a new twist or two.
Since 1980, Thanksgiving weekend has been synonymous with the Arts Alive festivals held at Tillett Gardens. But after 22 years, "Rhoda Tillett feels she needs more time for herself and has placed the future of the holiday event in the hands of someone who can give it new life, new energies," says Norita Lee, publicist for the event to be held at Compass Point Marina.
Pamela Wilson, owner of directions@compasspoint, a small business support service, took on the challenge, and the marina on St. Thomas's East End has been designated the new home of the annual holiday event. The change of venue will give the festival more room and maximum visibility, Lee says.
Anyone in the mood for holiday shopping — for others or for themselves — will be able to choose among a wide selection of hand-crafted items. The festival is "the best reason in the world to do all your Christmas shopping right here at home," Wilson says.
When Jim and Rhoda Tillett arrived on St. Thomas in 1959, he was searching for the right site to set up a silkscreen studio and art gallery. That turned out to be an old Danish farm located in Estate Anna's Retreat across from what is now Four Winds Plaza. What the couple did with the property would change the face of the arts scene on St. Thomas for the next four decades.
While Jim concentrated on his artwork, Rhoda managed the gallery and boutique that sold his silkscreened maps, fabrics and clothing fashioned therefrom. As the property was transformed into a public showcase for the visual and performing arts, Rhoda realized that Virgin Islands artists had few venues to exhibit and sell their work, and so she created Arts Alive, the presenting arm of the not-for-profit Tillett Foundation, and began producing thrice-a-year weekend arts and crafts fairs.
From 1980 to 2001, the Thanksgiving weekend fair — eventually rechristened the Arts Alive Arts and Crafts Festival — has ushered in the holiday shopping season on St. Thomas.
The festival's new home has been around for three decades itself. "Robert and Doris Allyn are celebrating the 30 years of ownership of the Compass Point Marina and are pleased to host the arts and crafts festival," Lee says.
Constructed in 1972, the marina was early on a haven for houseboats as well as charter vessels. The complex grew as the East End of St. Thomas developed, and today 83 charter boats are based there.
Originally known as Treasure Seaport, the area soon attracted artists and artisans, and 1976 saw the opening of its first restaurant, the Fish Market. The eatery was one of the few on the East End, and the specialty was, of course, fresh seafood.
Taxi drivers soon discovered the Fish Market, and business boomed. The problem was, there was no room to expand. Then the Allyns had the opportunity to purchase a World War II landing barge. Adapted to look like a riverboat, it seated 60 patrons.
"It provided a great view, al fresco dining, gentle breezes," Robert Allyn says, "but unfortunately the salt water caused a problem with the hull." The "problem" was that the barge took on water. It was pumped out several times; twice it sank, and twice it was raised and fixed again. Finally, with costs mounting, it was abandoned.
Over the years, artists and artisans have come and gone at Compass Point. Today many of the tenants are in the marine industry. Two fixtures of the community are restaurants — Raffles and Dottie's Front Porch (the home of "happy fat" desserts).
The now-to-be annual Compass Point Arts and Crafts Festival, continuing the tradition of the Arts Alive fests, will offer residents and visitors a one-stop opportunity to shop for locally made fine and folk art and more. The offerings this weekend will include paintings, pottery, jewelry, photography, toys, ornaments, carvings, candles, fragrances and foods.
"We have 54 exhibitors slotted," Lee says. Among them are:
Anita M. de la Cruz – bilingual children's books, artwork
James O'Boyle – children's books
Cheryl Miller – island hot sauces, salsas
Jeanne Webb – hand-crafted teddy bears
Leah Norton – handmade jewelry
"Dingo" – hand-crafted holiday cards, paintings
Bridgett Julius – hand-crafted gift cards, stationery and more
Kay McKean – handmade ornaments and wooden sculpture
Heidi Windell – Christmas ornaments
Casa Rustica – Mexican pottery
BJ Arnold – photographs
"Aphrodite" – oil paintings
Lynn Paccassi-Berry – ceramics
Jane Clemo – soft sculpture moko jumbies
Kay Cook – wire-wrap jewelry
Geraldine Encarcion – homemade vegetable soaps
Jacob France – flame-worked glass
Karen Isaacs – frozen drinks, doilies
Jeffrey Lange – photography
Dorothy McCurdy – children's clothing
Ray Miller – ceramic tiles
Vance Wilson – walking sticks
"Felix" – wood sculptures
Jason Budsan – hand-crafted candles
Merry Phillips – hand-crafted Christmas ornaments
"The entertainment list still is growing, too," Lee said, referring to the performing arts aspect of the festival that also continues the Arts Alive tradition. The talent on tap for the ongoing live music both days includes Rob Paper, Harmony Dem, Two Blue Shoes, Jay Comier, Narvdo and Rob Knuekel.
Festival hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday. Special guests for the official opening ribbon cutting at 11 a.m. Saturday will include Santa and Mrs. Claus and Tommy Starfish.
"Whether you come by land or by sea, Compass Point is easy to reach," Lee notes. "The dinghy dock has been made available for the convenience of boaters who will be exhibiting or just attending the event. The marina is also handicapped accessible has ample parking."
For more information, call Wilson at 715-0600 or Lee at 775-9112.
Publisher's note : Like the St. John Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.
Since 1980, Thanksgiving weekend has been synonymous with the Arts Alive festivals held at Tillett Gardens. But after 22 years, "Rhoda Tillett feels she needs more time for herself and has placed the future of the holiday event in the hands of someone who can give it new life, new energies," says Norita Lee, publicist for the event to be held at Compass Point Marina.
Pamela Wilson, owner of directions@compasspoint, a small business support service, took on the challenge, and the marina on St. Thomas's East End has been designated the new home of the annual holiday event. The change of venue will give the festival more room and maximum visibility, Lee says.
Anyone in the mood for holiday shopping — for others or for themselves — will be able to choose among a wide selection of hand-crafted items. The festival is "the best reason in the world to do all your Christmas shopping right here at home," Wilson says.
When Jim and Rhoda Tillett arrived on St. Thomas in 1959, he was searching for the right site to set up a silkscreen studio and art gallery. That turned out to be an old Danish farm located in Estate Anna's Retreat across from what is now Four Winds Plaza. What the couple did with the property would change the face of the arts scene on St. Thomas for the next four decades.
While Jim concentrated on his artwork, Rhoda managed the gallery and boutique that sold his silkscreened maps, fabrics and clothing fashioned therefrom. As the property was transformed into a public showcase for the visual and performing arts, Rhoda realized that Virgin Islands artists had few venues to exhibit and sell their work, and so she created Arts Alive, the presenting arm of the not-for-profit Tillett Foundation, and began producing thrice-a-year weekend arts and crafts fairs.
From 1980 to 2001, the Thanksgiving weekend fair — eventually rechristened the Arts Alive Arts and Crafts Festival — has ushered in the holiday shopping season on St. Thomas.
The festival's new home has been around for three decades itself. "Robert and Doris Allyn are celebrating the 30 years of ownership of the Compass Point Marina and are pleased to host the arts and crafts festival," Lee says.
Constructed in 1972, the marina was early on a haven for houseboats as well as charter vessels. The complex grew as the East End of St. Thomas developed, and today 83 charter boats are based there.
Originally known as Treasure Seaport, the area soon attracted artists and artisans, and 1976 saw the opening of its first restaurant, the Fish Market. The eatery was one of the few on the East End, and the specialty was, of course, fresh seafood.
Taxi drivers soon discovered the Fish Market, and business boomed. The problem was, there was no room to expand. Then the Allyns had the opportunity to purchase a World War II landing barge. Adapted to look like a riverboat, it seated 60 patrons.
"It provided a great view, al fresco dining, gentle breezes," Robert Allyn says, "but unfortunately the salt water caused a problem with the hull." The "problem" was that the barge took on water. It was pumped out several times; twice it sank, and twice it was raised and fixed again. Finally, with costs mounting, it was abandoned.
Over the years, artists and artisans have come and gone at Compass Point. Today many of the tenants are in the marine industry. Two fixtures of the community are restaurants — Raffles and Dottie's Front Porch (the home of "happy fat" desserts).
The now-to-be annual Compass Point Arts and Crafts Festival, continuing the tradition of the Arts Alive fests, will offer residents and visitors a one-stop opportunity to shop for locally made fine and folk art and more. The offerings this weekend will include paintings, pottery, jewelry, photography, toys, ornaments, carvings, candles, fragrances and foods.
"We have 54 exhibitors slotted," Lee says. Among them are:
Anita M. de la Cruz – bilingual children's books, artwork
James O'Boyle – children's books
Cheryl Miller – island hot sauces, salsas
Jeanne Webb – hand-crafted teddy bears
Leah Norton – handmade jewelry
"Dingo" – hand-crafted holiday cards, paintings
Bridgett Julius – hand-crafted gift cards, stationery and more
Kay McKean – handmade ornaments and wooden sculpture
Heidi Windell – Christmas ornaments
Casa Rustica – Mexican pottery
BJ Arnold – photographs
"Aphrodite" – oil paintings
Lynn Paccassi-Berry – ceramics
Jane Clemo – soft sculpture moko jumbies
Kay Cook – wire-wrap jewelry
Geraldine Encarcion – homemade vegetable soaps
Jacob France – flame-worked glass
Karen Isaacs – frozen drinks, doilies
Jeffrey Lange – photography
Dorothy McCurdy – children's clothing
Ray Miller – ceramic tiles
Vance Wilson – walking sticks
"Felix" – wood sculptures
Jason Budsan – hand-crafted candles
Merry Phillips – hand-crafted Christmas ornaments
"The entertainment list still is growing, too," Lee said, referring to the performing arts aspect of the festival that also continues the Arts Alive tradition. The talent on tap for the ongoing live music both days includes Rob Paper, Harmony Dem, Two Blue Shoes, Jay Comier, Narvdo and Rob Knuekel.
Festival hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday. Special guests for the official opening ribbon cutting at 11 a.m. Saturday will include Santa and Mrs. Claus and Tommy Starfish.
"Whether you come by land or by sea, Compass Point is easy to reach," Lee notes. "The dinghy dock has been made available for the convenience of boaters who will be exhibiting or just attending the event. The marina is also handicapped accessible has ample parking."
For more information, call Wilson at 715-0600 or Lee at 775-9112.
Publisher's note : Like the St. John Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.
AMOS CARTY JR. NAMED TO NO. 2 HOSPITAL POST
Nov. 27, 2002 – You might know Amos W. Carty Jr., 37, as host of "Talk 2" on cable's TV-2, but that's only a sideline. He spends his days toiling away at Roy L. Schneider Hospital and its affiliate, Myrah Keating Smith Community Health Center. After serving as legal counsel for those facilities for three years, he has been promoted to chief operating officer.
This makes him the second in command behind the hospital's chief executive officer, Rodney E. Miller Sr.
Carty "is totally committed to helping take this organization to the highest level of excellence," Miller said.
"I certainly look forward to the challenge," Carty said, adding that he thought long and hard about accepting the job. He said he is excited about the fact that he'll now be able to make policy decisions. He also will continue as the hospital's legal counsel.
He also said he is excited about the opportunity to work with the hospital and health center staff "as they enter the new millennium of providing quality health car to the people of the Virgin Islands."
Carty received his bachelor's degree in political science from Howard University then earned his law degree from American University. He was a law clerk for Territorial Judge I've Swan and later worked as an attorney in private practice. Before joining the hospital staff, he worked in various V.I. government legal offices, including those of the governor's office and the Legislature.
The son of Bishop Amos Carty Sr. and his wife, Chrys, the junior Carty is married to Verna Turnbull-Carty.
Even with his new responsibilities, you'll still be able to catch Carty at 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays on "Talk 2."
Publisher's note : Like the St. Thomas Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.
This makes him the second in command behind the hospital's chief executive officer, Rodney E. Miller Sr.
Carty "is totally committed to helping take this organization to the highest level of excellence," Miller said.
"I certainly look forward to the challenge," Carty said, adding that he thought long and hard about accepting the job. He said he is excited about the fact that he'll now be able to make policy decisions. He also will continue as the hospital's legal counsel.
He also said he is excited about the opportunity to work with the hospital and health center staff "as they enter the new millennium of providing quality health car to the people of the Virgin Islands."
Carty received his bachelor's degree in political science from Howard University then earned his law degree from American University. He was a law clerk for Territorial Judge I've Swan and later worked as an attorney in private practice. Before joining the hospital staff, he worked in various V.I. government legal offices, including those of the governor's office and the Legislature.
The son of Bishop Amos Carty Sr. and his wife, Chrys, the junior Carty is married to Verna Turnbull-Carty.
Even with his new responsibilities, you'll still be able to catch Carty at 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays on "Talk 2."
Publisher's note : Like the St. Thomas Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.
AMOS CARTY JR. NAMED TO NO. 2 HOSPITAL POST
Nov. 27, 2002 – You might know Amos W. Carty Jr., 37, as host of "Talk 2" on cable's TV-2, but that's only a sideline. He spends his days toiling away at Roy L. Schneider Hospital and its affiliate, Myrah Keating Smith Community Health Center. After serving as legal counsel for those facilities for three years, he has been promoted to chief operating officer.
This makes him the second in command behind the hospital's chief executive officer, Rodney E. Miller Sr.
Carty "is totally committed to helping take this organization to the highest level of excellence," Miller said.
"I certainly look forward to the challenge," Carty said, adding that he thought long and hard about accepting the job. He said he is excited about the fact that he'll now be able to make policy decisions. He also will continue as the hospital's legal counsel.
He also said he is excited about the opportunity to work with the hospital and health center staff "as they enter the new millennium of providing quality health car to the people of the Virgin Islands."
Carty received his bachelor's degree in political science from Howard University then earned his law degree from American University. He was a law clerk for Territorial Judge I've Swan and later worked as an attorney in private practice. Before joining the hospital staff, he worked in various V.I. government legal offices, including those of the governor's office and the Legislature.
The son of Bishop Amos Carty Sr. and his wife, Chrys, the junior Carty is married to Verna Turnbull-Carty.
Even with his new responsibilities, you'll still be able to catch Carty at 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays on "Talk 2."
Publisher's note : Like the St. John Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.
This makes him the second in command behind the hospital's chief executive officer, Rodney E. Miller Sr.
Carty "is totally committed to helping take this organization to the highest level of excellence," Miller said.
"I certainly look forward to the challenge," Carty said, adding that he thought long and hard about accepting the job. He said he is excited about the fact that he'll now be able to make policy decisions. He also will continue as the hospital's legal counsel.
He also said he is excited about the opportunity to work with the hospital and health center staff "as they enter the new millennium of providing quality health car to the people of the Virgin Islands."
Carty received his bachelor's degree in political science from Howard University then earned his law degree from American University. He was a law clerk for Territorial Judge I've Swan and later worked as an attorney in private practice. Before joining the hospital staff, he worked in various V.I. government legal offices, including those of the governor's office and the Legislature.
The son of Bishop Amos Carty Sr. and his wife, Chrys, the junior Carty is married to Verna Turnbull-Carty.
Even with his new responsibilities, you'll still be able to catch Carty at 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays on "Talk 2."
Publisher's note : Like the St. John Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.
NEED FOR FREE SCHOOL LUNCHES BEING ASSESSED
Nov. 27, 2002 – The Education Department is in the midst of determining what schools have students that need financial assistance when it comes to school lunches.
The study will determine how much money the department gets from the federal government to pay for school lunches for the next three years. It also will impact other federally funded programs.
Currently, all students in V.I. public and private schools get free lunches, thanks to long-ago action by the Legislature. "This entitlement is of particular significance because it places a greater burden on the Virgin Islands cost/funding situation," said Solomon Sentongo-Kabuka, who heads SKNetwork Inc., the company hired to conduct the survey.
Kabuka said the federal government pays only for lunches for children who meet income guidelines, and the local government thus picks up the tab for all of the others.
The study began last week. Kabuka is developing a list of households to be sampled. Who gets picked is determined by how closely they match what Kabuka deems to be the typical household with students involved in the school lunch program. Households that receive assistance from Human Services Department programs will be eliminated from the sample list and the remaining families will be surveyed.
A one-page questionnaire will be used to obtain data that will be utilized to determine a household's ability to pay for school lunches. Kabuka said no families or students will be identified by name in the information that is collected.
Elodia Weekly, state director for the Education Department's special nutrition programs, said that if families are unwilling to provide the information requested in the questionnaire, the territory could lose federal money for school lunches. "It stands to reason that the more individuals who participate in this study, the greater the possibility that the territory will be able to maximize its funding from the federal government," she said.
The survey, which is to be completed by March, is required by the U.S. Department of Agriculture as part of its efforts to make sure that all school children get a nutritious lunch.
Publisher's note : Like the St. Thomas Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.
The study will determine how much money the department gets from the federal government to pay for school lunches for the next three years. It also will impact other federally funded programs.
Currently, all students in V.I. public and private schools get free lunches, thanks to long-ago action by the Legislature. "This entitlement is of particular significance because it places a greater burden on the Virgin Islands cost/funding situation," said Solomon Sentongo-Kabuka, who heads SKNetwork Inc., the company hired to conduct the survey.
Kabuka said the federal government pays only for lunches for children who meet income guidelines, and the local government thus picks up the tab for all of the others.
The study began last week. Kabuka is developing a list of households to be sampled. Who gets picked is determined by how closely they match what Kabuka deems to be the typical household with students involved in the school lunch program. Households that receive assistance from Human Services Department programs will be eliminated from the sample list and the remaining families will be surveyed.
A one-page questionnaire will be used to obtain data that will be utilized to determine a household's ability to pay for school lunches. Kabuka said no families or students will be identified by name in the information that is collected.
Elodia Weekly, state director for the Education Department's special nutrition programs, said that if families are unwilling to provide the information requested in the questionnaire, the territory could lose federal money for school lunches. "It stands to reason that the more individuals who participate in this study, the greater the possibility that the territory will be able to maximize its funding from the federal government," she said.
The survey, which is to be completed by March, is required by the U.S. Department of Agriculture as part of its efforts to make sure that all school children get a nutritious lunch.
Publisher's note : Like the St. Thomas Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.
NEED FOR FREE SCHOOL LUNCHES BEING ASSESSED
Nov. 27, 2002 – The Education Department is in the midst of determining what schools have students that need financial assistance when it comes to school lunches.
The study will determine how much money the department gets from the federal government to pay for school lunches for the next three years. It also will impact other federally funded programs.
Currently, all students in V.I. public and private schools get free lunches, thanks to long-ago action by the Legislature. "This entitlement is of particular significance because it places a greater burden on the Virgin Islands cost/funding situation," said Solomon Sentongo-Kabuka, who heads SKNetwork Inc., the company hired to conduct the survey.
Kabuka said the federal government pays only for lunches for children who meet income guidelines, and the local government thus picks up the tab for all of the others.
The study began last week. Kabuka is developing a list of households to be sampled. Who gets picked is determined by how closely they match what Kabuka deems to be the typical household with students involved in the school lunch program. Households that receive assistance from Human Services Department programs will be eliminated from the sample list and the remaining families will be surveyed.
A one-page questionnaire will be used to obtain data that will be utilized to determine a household's ability to pay for school lunches. Kabuka said no families or students will be identified by name in the information that is collected.
Elodia Weekly, state director for the Education Department's special nutrition programs, said that if families are unwilling to provide the information requested in the questionnaire, the territory could lose federal money for school lunches. "It stands to reason that the more individuals who participate in this study, the greater the possibility that the territory will be able to maximize its funding from the federal government," she said.
The survey, which is to be completed by March, is required by the U.S. Department of Agriculture as part of its efforts to make sure that all school children get a nutritious lunch.
Publisher's note : Like the St. John Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.
The study will determine how much money the department gets from the federal government to pay for school lunches for the next three years. It also will impact other federally funded programs.
Currently, all students in V.I. public and private schools get free lunches, thanks to long-ago action by the Legislature. "This entitlement is of particular significance because it places a greater burden on the Virgin Islands cost/funding situation," said Solomon Sentongo-Kabuka, who heads SKNetwork Inc., the company hired to conduct the survey.
Kabuka said the federal government pays only for lunches for children who meet income guidelines, and the local government thus picks up the tab for all of the others.
The study began last week. Kabuka is developing a list of households to be sampled. Who gets picked is determined by how closely they match what Kabuka deems to be the typical household with students involved in the school lunch program. Households that receive assistance from Human Services Department programs will be eliminated from the sample list and the remaining families will be surveyed.
A one-page questionnaire will be used to obtain data that will be utilized to determine a household's ability to pay for school lunches. Kabuka said no families or students will be identified by name in the information that is collected.
Elodia Weekly, state director for the Education Department's special nutrition programs, said that if families are unwilling to provide the information requested in the questionnaire, the territory could lose federal money for school lunches. "It stands to reason that the more individuals who participate in this study, the greater the possibility that the territory will be able to maximize its funding from the federal government," she said.
The survey, which is to be completed by March, is required by the U.S. Department of Agriculture as part of its efforts to make sure that all school children get a nutritious lunch.
Publisher's note : Like the St. John Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.
