Nov. 4, 2002 – Downtown Christiansted got some new touches of tradition on Saturday as the St. Croix Friends of Denmark put up 20 street signs in both Danish and English throughout the Historic District.
"What the Friends of Denmark does is try to perpetuate our Danish heritage," Pam Nielsen, the group's vice president, said. "The old original signs were given up over the years, thanks to hurricanes."
Nielsen said a group member who visited Denmark more than a year ago solicited the new markers in the old style from a sign company there. "And they sent us some signs," Nielsen said of the traditional royal blue and white street markers.
She said local construction companies and individuals volunteered their time on Saturday to help get the signs up. But, she added, 20 more signs are waiting to be put up around Frederiksted, and the group is looking for more volunteers to help there, as well as for donations to purchase more signs.
"I think it makes a good impression on tourists," Nielsen said of the traditional look of the signage. "Plus, it helps them find where they are going. Those ancient ones are unreadable in most cases."
The St. Croix Friends of Denmark has 135 members, she said. "It's a bizarre mix. Many are Crucians of Danish heritage or Danes who have moved here and acclimated to the island."
The new signs can be seen on the sides of buildings throughout Christiansted. For more information about the project and how to help, call Nielsen at 692-5303.
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JUDGE SETS 1,000-FOOT BARRIER ASIDE FOR ELECTION
Nov. 4, 2002 – A 25-foot restriction on campaigning outside polling places will apply throughout the territory Tuesday as a result of a federal judge's ruling on Monday.
District Judge Raymond Finch granted the V.I. Democratic Party's request for a temporary restraining order that means those engaging in electioneering on St. Thomas and St. John won't have to stay a thousand feet away from the polls after all.
In enjoining the St. Thomas-St. John Board of Elections from "prohibiting political speech" during Tuesday's elections between 25 and 1,000 feet from polling places, Finch cited the need for consistency throughout the territory.
Elmo Adams Jr., the Democratic Party's St. Thomas-St. John District chair, filed for the restraining order on Friday, saying the thousand-foot perimeter set by the district board last summer was inconsistent with the 25-foot barrier set by the St. Croix board for its district.
Adams, a lawyer, called 1,000-foot regulation, which had replaced an earlier one of 25 feet, unreasonable and a violation of free speech rights. "We are very elated by the court's fast action and the court's decision on this motion," he said shortly after Finch issued the order.
The ruling quickly became an issue at a pre-election meeting of the St. Thomas-St. John Board of Elections at its headquarters on Crystal Gade in Charlotte Amalie. Elections Supervisor John Abramson Jr. declined comment on Finch's decision.
However, the temporary order covers only Tuesday's election. If there's a runoff on Nov. 19, things could change again. Finch told the parties to return to court on Nov. 14 to present their arguments for and against a permanent injunction. At that time, Adams said, he will present constitutional arguments on the free speech implications of outlawing electioneering within a thousand feet of the polls.
The 1,000-foot campaign-free zone came about a few months ago after another effort at restricting electioneering failed. In January, the Legislature overrode the governor's veto to enact a bill banning all campaigning after 2 a.m. on election days. That law was thrown out in District Court in August, after a member of the Democratic Party argued that it violated free speech, free assembly and free expression provisions of the Constitution.
The Joint Boards of Elections decided last summer to impose a thousand-foot barrier territorywide, and it was in place for the Sept. 14 primary election. Subsequently, however, the St. Croix board voted to revert to the 25-foot restriction. At that time, Abramson said the V.I. code allows each board to set the rules for its own district.
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.
District Judge Raymond Finch granted the V.I. Democratic Party's request for a temporary restraining order that means those engaging in electioneering on St. Thomas and St. John won't have to stay a thousand feet away from the polls after all.
In enjoining the St. Thomas-St. John Board of Elections from "prohibiting political speech" during Tuesday's elections between 25 and 1,000 feet from polling places, Finch cited the need for consistency throughout the territory.
Elmo Adams Jr., the Democratic Party's St. Thomas-St. John District chair, filed for the restraining order on Friday, saying the thousand-foot perimeter set by the district board last summer was inconsistent with the 25-foot barrier set by the St. Croix board for its district.
Adams, a lawyer, called 1,000-foot regulation, which had replaced an earlier one of 25 feet, unreasonable and a violation of free speech rights. "We are very elated by the court's fast action and the court's decision on this motion," he said shortly after Finch issued the order.
The ruling quickly became an issue at a pre-election meeting of the St. Thomas-St. John Board of Elections at its headquarters on Crystal Gade in Charlotte Amalie. Elections Supervisor John Abramson Jr. declined comment on Finch's decision.
However, the temporary order covers only Tuesday's election. If there's a runoff on Nov. 19, things could change again. Finch told the parties to return to court on Nov. 14 to present their arguments for and against a permanent injunction. At that time, Adams said, he will present constitutional arguments on the free speech implications of outlawing electioneering within a thousand feet of the polls.
The 1,000-foot campaign-free zone came about a few months ago after another effort at restricting electioneering failed. In January, the Legislature overrode the governor's veto to enact a bill banning all campaigning after 2 a.m. on election days. That law was thrown out in District Court in August, after a member of the Democratic Party argued that it violated free speech, free assembly and free expression provisions of the Constitution.
The Joint Boards of Elections decided last summer to impose a thousand-foot barrier territorywide, and it was in place for the Sept. 14 primary election. Subsequently, however, the St. Croix board voted to revert to the 25-foot restriction. At that time, Abramson said the V.I. code allows each board to set the rules for its own district.
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.
JUDGE SETS 1,000-FOOT BARRIER ASIDE FOR ELECTION
Nov. 4, 2002 – A 25-foot restriction on campaigning outside polling places will apply throughout the territory Tuesday as a result of a federal judge's ruling on Monday.
District Judge Raymond Finch granted the V.I. Democratic Party's request for a temporary restraining order that means those engaging in electioneering on St. Thomas and St. John won't have to stay a thousand feet away from the polls after all.
In enjoining the St. Thomas-St. John Board of Elections from "prohibiting political speech" during Tuesday's elections between 25 and 1,000 feet from polling places, Finch cited the need for consistency throughout the territory.
Elmo Adams Jr., the Democratic Party's St. Thomas-St. John District chair, filed for the restraining order on Friday, saying the thousand-foot perimeter set by the district board last summer was inconsistent with the 25-foot barrier set by the St. Croix board for its district.
Adams, a lawyer, called 1,000-foot regulation, which had replaced an earlier one of 25 feet, unreasonable and a violation of free speech rights. "We are very elated by the court's fast action and the court's decision on this motion," he said shortly after Finch issued the order.
The ruling quickly became an issue at a pre-election meeting of the St. Thomas-St. John Board of Elections at its headquarters on Crystal Gade in Charlotte Amalie. Elections Supervisor John Abramson Jr. declined comment on Finch's decision.
However, the temporary order covers only Tuesday's election. If there's a runoff on Nov. 19, things could change again. Finch told the parties to return to court on Nov. 14 to present their arguments for and against a permanent injunction. At that time, Adams said, he will present constitutional arguments on the free speech implications of outlawing electioneering within a thousand feet of the polls.
The 1,000-foot campaign-free zone came about a few months ago after another effort at restricting electioneering failed. In January, the Legislature overrode the governor's veto to enact a bill banning all campaigning after 2 a.m. on election days. That law was thrown out in District Court in August, after a member of the Democratic Party argued that it violated free speech, free assembly and free expression provisions of the Constitution.
The Joint Boards of Elections decided last summer to impose a thousand-foot barrier territorywide, and it was in place for the Sept. 14 primary election. Subsequently, however, the St. Croix board voted to revert to the 25-foot restriction. At that time, Abramson said the V.I. code allows each board to set the rules for its own district.
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.
District Judge Raymond Finch granted the V.I. Democratic Party's request for a temporary restraining order that means those engaging in electioneering on St. Thomas and St. John won't have to stay a thousand feet away from the polls after all.
In enjoining the St. Thomas-St. John Board of Elections from "prohibiting political speech" during Tuesday's elections between 25 and 1,000 feet from polling places, Finch cited the need for consistency throughout the territory.
Elmo Adams Jr., the Democratic Party's St. Thomas-St. John District chair, filed for the restraining order on Friday, saying the thousand-foot perimeter set by the district board last summer was inconsistent with the 25-foot barrier set by the St. Croix board for its district.
Adams, a lawyer, called 1,000-foot regulation, which had replaced an earlier one of 25 feet, unreasonable and a violation of free speech rights. "We are very elated by the court's fast action and the court's decision on this motion," he said shortly after Finch issued the order.
The ruling quickly became an issue at a pre-election meeting of the St. Thomas-St. John Board of Elections at its headquarters on Crystal Gade in Charlotte Amalie. Elections Supervisor John Abramson Jr. declined comment on Finch's decision.
However, the temporary order covers only Tuesday's election. If there's a runoff on Nov. 19, things could change again. Finch told the parties to return to court on Nov. 14 to present their arguments for and against a permanent injunction. At that time, Adams said, he will present constitutional arguments on the free speech implications of outlawing electioneering within a thousand feet of the polls.
The 1,000-foot campaign-free zone came about a few months ago after another effort at restricting electioneering failed. In January, the Legislature overrode the governor's veto to enact a bill banning all campaigning after 2 a.m. on election days. That law was thrown out in District Court in August, after a member of the Democratic Party argued that it violated free speech, free assembly and free expression provisions of the Constitution.
The Joint Boards of Elections decided last summer to impose a thousand-foot barrier territorywide, and it was in place for the Sept. 14 primary election. Subsequently, however, the St. Croix board voted to revert to the 25-foot restriction. At that time, Abramson said the V.I. code allows each board to set the rules for its own district.
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.
JUDGE SETS 1,000-FOOT BARRIER ASIDE FOR ELECTION
Nov. 4, 2002 – A 25-foot restriction on campaigning outside polling places will apply throughout the territory Tuesday as a result of a federal judge's ruling on Monday.
District Judge Raymond Finch granted the V.I. Democratic Party's request for a temporary restraining order that means those engaging in electioneering on St. Thomas and St. John won't have to stay a thousand feet away from the polls after all.
In enjoining the St. Thomas-St. John Board of Elections from "prohibiting political speech" during Tuesday's elections between 25 and 1,000 feet from polling places, Finch cited the need for consistency throughout the territory.
Elmo Adams Jr., the Democratic Party's St. Thomas-St. John District chair, filed for the restraining order on Friday, saying the thousand-foot perimeter set by the district board last summer was inconsistent with the 25-foot barrier set by the St. Croix board for its district.
Adams, a lawyer, called 1,000-foot regulation, which had replaced an earlier one of 25 feet, unreasonable and a violation of free speech rights. "We are very elated by the court's fast action and the court's decision on this motion," he said shortly after Finch issued the order.
The ruling quickly became an issue at a pre-election meeting of the St. Thomas-St. John Board of Elections at its headquarters on Crystal Gade in Charlotte Amalie. Elections Supervisor John Abramson Jr. declined comment on Finch's decision.
However, the temporary order covers only Tuesday's election. If there's a runoff on Nov. 19, things could change again. Finch told the parties to return to court on Nov. 14 to present their arguments for and against a permanent injunction. At that time, Adams said, he will present constitutional arguments on the free speech implications of outlawing electioneering within a thousand feet of the polls.
The 1,000-foot campaign-free zone came about a few months ago after another effort at restricting electioneering failed. In January, the Legislature overrode the governor's veto to enact a bill banning all campaigning after 2 a.m. on election days. That law was thrown out in District Court in August, after a member of the Democratic Party argued that it violated free speech, free assembly and free expression provisions of the Constitution.
The Joint Boards of Elections decided last summer to impose a thousand-foot barrier territorywide, and it was in place for the Sept. 14 primary election. Subsequently, however, the St. Croix board voted to revert to the 25-foot restriction. At that time, Abramson said the V.I. code allows each board to set the rules for its own district.
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.
District Judge Raymond Finch granted the V.I. Democratic Party's request for a temporary restraining order that means those engaging in electioneering on St. Thomas and St. John won't have to stay a thousand feet away from the polls after all.
In enjoining the St. Thomas-St. John Board of Elections from "prohibiting political speech" during Tuesday's elections between 25 and 1,000 feet from polling places, Finch cited the need for consistency throughout the territory.
Elmo Adams Jr., the Democratic Party's St. Thomas-St. John District chair, filed for the restraining order on Friday, saying the thousand-foot perimeter set by the district board last summer was inconsistent with the 25-foot barrier set by the St. Croix board for its district.
Adams, a lawyer, called 1,000-foot regulation, which had replaced an earlier one of 25 feet, unreasonable and a violation of free speech rights. "We are very elated by the court's fast action and the court's decision on this motion," he said shortly after Finch issued the order.
The ruling quickly became an issue at a pre-election meeting of the St. Thomas-St. John Board of Elections at its headquarters on Crystal Gade in Charlotte Amalie. Elections Supervisor John Abramson Jr. declined comment on Finch's decision.
However, the temporary order covers only Tuesday's election. If there's a runoff on Nov. 19, things could change again. Finch told the parties to return to court on Nov. 14 to present their arguments for and against a permanent injunction. At that time, Adams said, he will present constitutional arguments on the free speech implications of outlawing electioneering within a thousand feet of the polls.
The 1,000-foot campaign-free zone came about a few months ago after another effort at restricting electioneering failed. In January, the Legislature overrode the governor's veto to enact a bill banning all campaigning after 2 a.m. on election days. That law was thrown out in District Court in August, after a member of the Democratic Party argued that it violated free speech, free assembly and free expression provisions of the Constitution.
The Joint Boards of Elections decided last summer to impose a thousand-foot barrier territorywide, and it was in place for the Sept. 14 primary election. Subsequently, however, the St. Croix board voted to revert to the 25-foot restriction. At that time, Abramson said the V.I. code allows each board to set the rules for its own district.
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.
LAST DAY FOR UVI SPRING 2003 REGISTRATION
Advisement and registration for UVI's spring 2003 semester is being conducted from Monday, Nov. 4, through Wednesday, Nov. 13.
Spring 2003 class schedules may be accessed via UVI web pages at:
— St. Croix – cac.uvi.edu/sched/sp2003/cindex.html
— St. Thomas – cac.uvi.edu/sched/sp2003/tindex.html.
For more information, on St. Thomas call 693-1160 or on St. Croix 692-4158.
Spring 2003 class schedules may be accessed via UVI web pages at:
— St. Croix – cac.uvi.edu/sched/sp2003/cindex.html
— St. Thomas – cac.uvi.edu/sched/sp2003/tindex.html.
For more information, on St. Thomas call 693-1160 or on St. Croix 692-4158.
AMERICAN AIRLINES ENHANCES ST. THOMAS SERVICE
Nov. 4, 2002 – American Airlines will strengthen its service to St. Thomas for the winter, bringing back its seasonal flights to Miami and New York/JFK, and adding a flight to Boston.
The second daily trip from St. Thomas to Miami was added Nov. 1, and on Nov. 16 American will fly from St. Thomas nonstop to Boston on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. The airline will add Tuesday and Thursday nonstops on Dec. 15. Also on Dec. 15 American will bring back the second flight to New York/JFK that will operate every day except Friday. All six flights will operate with a 176-seat Boeing 757.
Ernesto Quidgley, general manager for American Airlines on St. Thomas, said, "American is implementing changes to assure a solid future for the company. We’re strengthening our service for the winter which offers a great opportunity for leisure travel markets."
"Since business travel has decreased, we are looking for opportunities to promote leisure travel," Quidgley said.
American Airlines flights from St. Thomas to Miami will leave at 10 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Flights to Boston will leave at 4 p.m. Departures to New York will be at 1:58 and 5:05 p.m.
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 second daily trip from St. Thomas to Miami was added Nov. 1, and on Nov. 16 American will fly from St. Thomas nonstop to Boston on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. The airline will add Tuesday and Thursday nonstops on Dec. 15. Also on Dec. 15 American will bring back the second flight to New York/JFK that will operate every day except Friday. All six flights will operate with a 176-seat Boeing 757.
Ernesto Quidgley, general manager for American Airlines on St. Thomas, said, "American is implementing changes to assure a solid future for the company. We’re strengthening our service for the winter which offers a great opportunity for leisure travel markets."
"Since business travel has decreased, we are looking for opportunities to promote leisure travel," Quidgley said.
American Airlines flights from St. Thomas to Miami will leave at 10 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Flights to Boston will leave at 4 p.m. Departures to New York will be at 1:58 and 5:05 p.m.
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.
AN OPEN LETTER TO SEN. HANSEN
An open letter to Senator Alicia "Chucky" Hansen
Dear Senator Hansen,
I have been reading in both the Virgin Islands Daily News and The St.
Thomas Source the allegations and the denials regarding your degrees of
higher learning from some school, which includes Regis in its name.
Senator Hansen, please come clean on this subject. You can call people names, condemn entire entities, and basically make denials about this subject until the proverbial cows come home. But you know, deep down in your heart, that the "degrees" which you have obtained, while obtained legally, are not really worth the, more than likely, low quality paper they are printed on. This issue will not go away Senator Hansen.
What is really one of the more disturbing facts about this, is that your job as a senator, elected to represent the people of the Virgin Islands, elected to spend the money of these citizens, as well as the taxpaying public of the United States of America, was given to you partially for the academic record that you claimed for yourself. Not to mention the fact that being a public figure, automatically sets you up as a role model for the youth of the Virgin Islands. This is truly a shame.
What else has been lied about Senator Hansen? Is this just the tip of the iceberg? If you say "nothing", why should you be believed? If you can’t even tell the truth about this, what else could there be that has not yet come to light? Quit while you're ahead Senator Hansen, your hand has been in the cookie jar for long enough. You have proven to the voters that you cannot be trusted to tell the truth.
I’m sure one of your first reactions to my letter is going to be, "Why do you care, you don’t even live here". My answer to that Senator is that much of my tax money lives there. Do the right thing.
Eric K. Roeske
Wisconsin
Dear Senator Hansen,
I have been reading in both the Virgin Islands Daily News and The St.
Thomas Source the allegations and the denials regarding your degrees of
higher learning from some school, which includes Regis in its name.
Senator Hansen, please come clean on this subject. You can call people names, condemn entire entities, and basically make denials about this subject until the proverbial cows come home. But you know, deep down in your heart, that the "degrees" which you have obtained, while obtained legally, are not really worth the, more than likely, low quality paper they are printed on. This issue will not go away Senator Hansen.
What is really one of the more disturbing facts about this, is that your job as a senator, elected to represent the people of the Virgin Islands, elected to spend the money of these citizens, as well as the taxpaying public of the United States of America, was given to you partially for the academic record that you claimed for yourself. Not to mention the fact that being a public figure, automatically sets you up as a role model for the youth of the Virgin Islands. This is truly a shame.
What else has been lied about Senator Hansen? Is this just the tip of the iceberg? If you say "nothing", why should you be believed? If you can’t even tell the truth about this, what else could there be that has not yet come to light? Quit while you're ahead Senator Hansen, your hand has been in the cookie jar for long enough. You have proven to the voters that you cannot be trusted to tell the truth.
I’m sure one of your first reactions to my letter is going to be, "Why do you care, you don’t even live here". My answer to that Senator is that much of my tax money lives there. Do the right thing.
Eric K. Roeske
Wisconsin
Editor's note: We welcome and encourage readers to keep the dialogue going by responding to Source commentary. Letters should be e-mailed with name and place of residence to source@viaccess.net.
TURNBULL/RICHARDS RESPOND TO FORUM
1. How important is a comprehensive land and water use plan, and why has the territory been unable in more than 20 years of effort to enact one? What will it take to change this, and what, if anything, will you do to bring about such change?
A Comprehensive Land and Water Use Plan (CLWUP) is important for the planned development of the U.S. Virgin Islands and the protection of our endangered environment. The passage of a comprehensive land and water use plan has been a political football for years. Without such a plan in place, the Legislature has approved many zoning changes and coastal zone permits without the benefit of public input or existing law. These actions have caused much harm to future development and the efficient use of our limited land and water resources.
As one of my first initiatives I will submit an updated comprehensive land and water use plan for the consideration of the 25th Legislature. It is hoped that pressure from the public at large will result in the passage of this important piece of legislation.
2. How important is private and public sector partnering, and how can such partnering best be accomplished in order to be most effective in addressing economic and social problems in the territory?
Private and public sector partnering is the key ingredient for economic and social progress in the Virgin Islands. I have said that the private sector is the engine that fuels the economy. As Governor, I have established partnerships with the private sector in Christiansted and Frederiksted on St. Croix to build a vibrant economy in that district. We are working with the business sector and other civic organizations to rebuild St. Croix. My administration has worked successfully with the private sector in St. Thomas and St. Croix for investment in new hotels, hotel improvements, other tourism-related ventures and a myriad of other business ventures. These beneficial partnerships between the private sector and the government have resulted in much progress and have benefited the government and all Virgin Islanders.
3. What are the biggest problems in the public education system, and what will it take to solve them? What will you do toward getting them solved?
The Turnbull/Richards Team recognizes that an educated society is a productive and progressive one. Public education is the key to economic opportunity effective participation in all democracies. High standards for achievement are a shared responsibility of family, school and community. Our children come first! Mandating rigorous assessment and evaluation at every grade level will be implemented to push performance levels and to create the environment in which learning and teaching become the driving force for positive change in education.
We are committed to aggressively working on regaining accreditation through the implementation and institution of specific objectives and goals to meet or surpass the deadlines and requirements of the Middle States Association. The opportunity is ripe for strategic reform of our public schools. Comprehensive reform of our public schools must address all aspects of school effectiveness by ensuring up-to-date curriculum content; building solid community and parent-school partnerships as well as instituting Site-Based Management, on-going staff development, and up to date technology to drive high standards and student achievement. (A report of accomplishments and a detailed plan for future initiatives for education can be obtained from the Turnbull/Richards campaign headquarters.)
4. How do you feel about floating future bonds to finance government initiatives, given the territory's present bond indebtedness or more than $1 billion? What will you do to persuade others of your views?
First, contrary to any other statement, the bonded indebtedness of the Virgin Islands Government as of October 1, 2002 is $777.6 million including three series of bond issuances. They are: (1) $7,295,000 Project Revenue Bonds, Series 1999, (2) $283,335,000 Revenue Bonds, V.I. Gross Receipt Taxes Loan Note, Series 1999A, and (3) $486,970,000 Matching Fund Loan Notes, Series 1998 A, B, C, D and E. The bonded indebtedness of the Government does not include bonds issued by any other independent instrumentality and pledged by other entities.
I intend to issue municipal securities with the use of new matching fund revenues to reconstruct and replace the deteriorated, aged and malfunctioning wastewater facilities in the Virgin Islands, to construct a new central high school, to invest in vitally-needed medical equipment for our territorial hospitals, to invest in building a modern police department and to revitalize and rebuild the infrastructure and historic structures in Christiansted, Frederiksted, and Charlotte Amalie. These new initiatives will not bring the overall debt to $1 billion. Te people of the Virgin Islands will not be required to pay any levies, taxes or fees to achieve these objectives.
I agree that we cannot solve all of our problems through the issuance of new debt, but we must invest now in the future by improving our infrastructure, growing our economy, providing effective public safety, delivering quality education and health care, and taking care of the priority needs of our Virgin Islands community.
5- 6. What is the most viable solution to the territory's solid-waste and sewage problems? What will you do to advance the implementation of this solution?
There is currently a proposed legislation at the Senate to address the sold waste and wastewater management problems in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The proposed legislation would establish a Virgin Islands Waste Management Authority (VIWMA) charged with developing and implementing a comprehensive, high quality and reliable program for managing the territory's sold waste and wastewater, thus ensuring the continued protection of public health and the environment within the territory.
Solid waste and wastewater management has been a persistent and well documented problem for many years. Because of these conditions, the territory now is on the verge of losing primary enforcement authority for federal solid waste laws. The proposed legislation would create an autonomous government corporation similar in structure to WAPA which would be responsible for its own debts, assets, contracts, expenditures, funds, facilities and property, independent of the Government of the Virgin Islands. The Authority would assume responsibility for all waste produced and disposed of within the territory. The responsibilities of the authority would include educating the public, upgrading the existing wastewater system, developing and implementing a solid waste management program, coming into federal and local compliance, establishing and administering equitable fees, and participating in federal government programs.
7. How do you assess the economy of the Virgin Islands at this time, and what do you see as its best hope for growth? What will you do to foster that growth?
The economy in the Virgin Islands at this time could be best described as an economy in steady recovery. After the trauma of the events of 911, the U.S. Virgin Islands is experiencing an economy that is more advanced than our neighbors in the Caribbean and even some jurisdictions in the United States.
My administration has aggressively promoted tourism which is our number one industry. We have increased our tourism advertising budget with specific concentration on St. Croix. This has resulted in an increase in visitors to the Virgin Islands. American Airlines has reported a 197% increase verses last year. We have brought a variety of new businesses to the territory, including a one billion dollar hotel resort development for St. Croix and another half billion for St. Thomas. Within the past year, I have approved a total of over 49 applications for economic benefits under the newly-organized Economic Development Authority. This will result in over 1,000 jobs for St. Croix. We have initiated plans for the development of "The New Frederiksted" which when completed, will generate much needed revenues for that district. Cruise ships are now returning to St. Croix and a partnership between the Department of Tourism and the private sector will result in positive benefits for the territory.
My administration has been working diligently to diversify our economy, bringing in companies in financial services, electronics, construction technology, manufacturing, international brokerage services, telecommunications companies and pharmaceuticals. These companies provide positive returns to the government and community with a low impact on the Virgin Islands infrastructure and low or no impact on our scarce natural resources.
The record will show that our economy is rebounding and shows a great potential for future growth, because of the actions taken by this administration to develop a vibrant economic recovery for this territory.
8. How pervasive is corruption within the local government, and how should this problem, if you consider it to be a problem, best be addressed?
Corruption is not pervasive within the local government. There have been individual acts of dishonesty, some involving the theft of government funds, but these acts have not been part of an organized effort such as a ring involving several individuals. The incidences of the individual criminal acts have been miniscule when compared to the size of the government work force.
There is a tendency to describe overspending, faulty accounting and inadequate tracking of funds as corruption, but these usually do not have the criminal intent that would be required for it to be called corruption.
9. What is the most viable solution to Government Employees Retirement System payouts exceeding revenues, and what will you do to advance the implementation of this solution?
The Legislature must stop its raids of the Government Employees Retirement System and must refrain from passing legislation which increases the unfounded liability of the system. The executive and legislative branches need to work together on a plan to finance the deficit created over the years and commit to making lump-sum payments to take care of this problem. Legislation providing for the reform of the system needs to be considered. I am presently awaiting a proposed reform act from the GERS. I am aware of the need to protect our government retirees and their hard-earned pensions. That is why I have continually vetoed legislation, over the objections of the Legislature, which erodes the stability of the system. I will continue to veto any legislation which will cause harm to the Government Employees Retirement System.
10. What is the most viable solution to government spending exceeding revenues, and what will you do to advance the implementation of this solution?
By law, the government is prohibited from spending in excess of appropriations passed by the Legislature. Over the years the Legislature has approved appropriations in excess of reliable revenues collected by the government. When this occurs, my administration allots and expends within the limit of available revenues in our treasury. Then, the executive branch, by law, establishes the priorities for spending. The only way that we can implement a policy for living within our means is to force the Legislature to establish a policy of not passing appropriations without identified revenue sources. My administration has already established strict policy against departments, agencies or individuals obligating the government for goods and services not authorized by law and for which no funds are available.
11. How do alignments between majority and minority blocs in the Legislature and adversarial relationships between the legislative and executive branches of government serve the best interests of the people of the Virgin Islands?
Alignments between the majority and minority blocs in the Legislature are a normal process by which the Legislature organizes itself. When a majority of the Legislature creates an adversarial relationship with the executive branch of government, it never serves the best interests of the people of the Virgin Islands. The two branches have a responsibility to put aside personal and political differences and develop a partnership of promise and progress that will give priority to addressing the demands and needs of the public at large.
During my first two years as Governor, I enjoyed a fruitful and meaningful relationship with that majority of the Legislature, resulting in much progress for the people. The adversarial position taken by the majority of the 24th Legislature with my administration has created chaos and confusion and the public has been ill-served as a result.
A Comprehensive Land and Water Use Plan (CLWUP) is important for the planned development of the U.S. Virgin Islands and the protection of our endangered environment. The passage of a comprehensive land and water use plan has been a political football for years. Without such a plan in place, the Legislature has approved many zoning changes and coastal zone permits without the benefit of public input or existing law. These actions have caused much harm to future development and the efficient use of our limited land and water resources.
As one of my first initiatives I will submit an updated comprehensive land and water use plan for the consideration of the 25th Legislature. It is hoped that pressure from the public at large will result in the passage of this important piece of legislation.
2. How important is private and public sector partnering, and how can such partnering best be accomplished in order to be most effective in addressing economic and social problems in the territory?
Private and public sector partnering is the key ingredient for economic and social progress in the Virgin Islands. I have said that the private sector is the engine that fuels the economy. As Governor, I have established partnerships with the private sector in Christiansted and Frederiksted on St. Croix to build a vibrant economy in that district. We are working with the business sector and other civic organizations to rebuild St. Croix. My administration has worked successfully with the private sector in St. Thomas and St. Croix for investment in new hotels, hotel improvements, other tourism-related ventures and a myriad of other business ventures. These beneficial partnerships between the private sector and the government have resulted in much progress and have benefited the government and all Virgin Islanders.
3. What are the biggest problems in the public education system, and what will it take to solve them? What will you do toward getting them solved?
The Turnbull/Richards Team recognizes that an educated society is a productive and progressive one. Public education is the key to economic opportunity effective participation in all democracies. High standards for achievement are a shared responsibility of family, school and community. Our children come first! Mandating rigorous assessment and evaluation at every grade level will be implemented to push performance levels and to create the environment in which learning and teaching become the driving force for positive change in education.
We are committed to aggressively working on regaining accreditation through the implementation and institution of specific objectives and goals to meet or surpass the deadlines and requirements of the Middle States Association. The opportunity is ripe for strategic reform of our public schools. Comprehensive reform of our public schools must address all aspects of school effectiveness by ensuring up-to-date curriculum content; building solid community and parent-school partnerships as well as instituting Site-Based Management, on-going staff development, and up to date technology to drive high standards and student achievement. (A report of accomplishments and a detailed plan for future initiatives for education can be obtained from the Turnbull/Richards campaign headquarters.)
4. How do you feel about floating future bonds to finance government initiatives, given the territory's present bond indebtedness or more than $1 billion? What will you do to persuade others of your views?
First, contrary to any other statement, the bonded indebtedness of the Virgin Islands Government as of October 1, 2002 is $777.6 million including three series of bond issuances. They are: (1) $7,295,000 Project Revenue Bonds, Series 1999, (2) $283,335,000 Revenue Bonds, V.I. Gross Receipt Taxes Loan Note, Series 1999A, and (3) $486,970,000 Matching Fund Loan Notes, Series 1998 A, B, C, D and E. The bonded indebtedness of the Government does not include bonds issued by any other independent instrumentality and pledged by other entities.
I intend to issue municipal securities with the use of new matching fund revenues to reconstruct and replace the deteriorated, aged and malfunctioning wastewater facilities in the Virgin Islands, to construct a new central high school, to invest in vitally-needed medical equipment for our territorial hospitals, to invest in building a modern police department and to revitalize and rebuild the infrastructure and historic structures in Christiansted, Frederiksted, and Charlotte Amalie. These new initiatives will not bring the overall debt to $1 billion. Te people of the Virgin Islands will not be required to pay any levies, taxes or fees to achieve these objectives.
I agree that we cannot solve all of our problems through the issuance of new debt, but we must invest now in the future by improving our infrastructure, growing our economy, providing effective public safety, delivering quality education and health care, and taking care of the priority needs of our Virgin Islands community.
5- 6. What is the most viable solution to the territory's solid-waste and sewage problems? What will you do to advance the implementation of this solution?
There is currently a proposed legislation at the Senate to address the sold waste and wastewater management problems in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The proposed legislation would establish a Virgin Islands Waste Management Authority (VIWMA) charged with developing and implementing a comprehensive, high quality and reliable program for managing the territory's sold waste and wastewater, thus ensuring the continued protection of public health and the environment within the territory.
Solid waste and wastewater management has been a persistent and well documented problem for many years. Because of these conditions, the territory now is on the verge of losing primary enforcement authority for federal solid waste laws. The proposed legislation would create an autonomous government corporation similar in structure to WAPA which would be responsible for its own debts, assets, contracts, expenditures, funds, facilities and property, independent of the Government of the Virgin Islands. The Authority would assume responsibility for all waste produced and disposed of within the territory. The responsibilities of the authority would include educating the public, upgrading the existing wastewater system, developing and implementing a solid waste management program, coming into federal and local compliance, establishing and administering equitable fees, and participating in federal government programs.
7. How do you assess the economy of the Virgin Islands at this time, and what do you see as its best hope for growth? What will you do to foster that growth?
The economy in the Virgin Islands at this time could be best described as an economy in steady recovery. After the trauma of the events of 911, the U.S. Virgin Islands is experiencing an economy that is more advanced than our neighbors in the Caribbean and even some jurisdictions in the United States.
My administration has aggressively promoted tourism which is our number one industry. We have increased our tourism advertising budget with specific concentration on St. Croix. This has resulted in an increase in visitors to the Virgin Islands. American Airlines has reported a 197% increase verses last year. We have brought a variety of new businesses to the territory, including a one billion dollar hotel resort development for St. Croix and another half billion for St. Thomas. Within the past year, I have approved a total of over 49 applications for economic benefits under the newly-organized Economic Development Authority. This will result in over 1,000 jobs for St. Croix. We have initiated plans for the development of "The New Frederiksted" which when completed, will generate much needed revenues for that district. Cruise ships are now returning to St. Croix and a partnership between the Department of Tourism and the private sector will result in positive benefits for the territory.
My administration has been working diligently to diversify our economy, bringing in companies in financial services, electronics, construction technology, manufacturing, international brokerage services, telecommunications companies and pharmaceuticals. These companies provide positive returns to the government and community with a low impact on the Virgin Islands infrastructure and low or no impact on our scarce natural resources.
The record will show that our economy is rebounding and shows a great potential for future growth, because of the actions taken by this administration to develop a vibrant economic recovery for this territory.
8. How pervasive is corruption within the local government, and how should this problem, if you consider it to be a problem, best be addressed?
Corruption is not pervasive within the local government. There have been individual acts of dishonesty, some involving the theft of government funds, but these acts have not been part of an organized effort such as a ring involving several individuals. The incidences of the individual criminal acts have been miniscule when compared to the size of the government work force.
There is a tendency to describe overspending, faulty accounting and inadequate tracking of funds as corruption, but these usually do not have the criminal intent that would be required for it to be called corruption.
9. What is the most viable solution to Government Employees Retirement System payouts exceeding revenues, and what will you do to advance the implementation of this solution?
The Legislature must stop its raids of the Government Employees Retirement System and must refrain from passing legislation which increases the unfounded liability of the system. The executive and legislative branches need to work together on a plan to finance the deficit created over the years and commit to making lump-sum payments to take care of this problem. Legislation providing for the reform of the system needs to be considered. I am presently awaiting a proposed reform act from the GERS. I am aware of the need to protect our government retirees and their hard-earned pensions. That is why I have continually vetoed legislation, over the objections of the Legislature, which erodes the stability of the system. I will continue to veto any legislation which will cause harm to the Government Employees Retirement System.
10. What is the most viable solution to government spending exceeding revenues, and what will you do to advance the implementation of this solution?
By law, the government is prohibited from spending in excess of appropriations passed by the Legislature. Over the years the Legislature has approved appropriations in excess of reliable revenues collected by the government. When this occurs, my administration allots and expends within the limit of available revenues in our treasury. Then, the executive branch, by law, establishes the priorities for spending. The only way that we can implement a policy for living within our means is to force the Legislature to establish a policy of not passing appropriations without identified revenue sources. My administration has already established strict policy against departments, agencies or individuals obligating the government for goods and services not authorized by law and for which no funds are available.
11. How do alignments between majority and minority blocs in the Legislature and adversarial relationships between the legislative and executive branches of government serve the best interests of the people of the Virgin Islands?
Alignments between the majority and minority blocs in the Legislature are a normal process by which the Legislature organizes itself. When a majority of the Legislature creates an adversarial relationship with the executive branch of government, it never serves the best interests of the people of the Virgin Islands. The two branches have a responsibility to put aside personal and political differences and develop a partnership of promise and progress that will give priority to addressing the demands and needs of the public at large.
During my first two years as Governor, I enjoyed a fruitful and meaningful relationship with that majority of the Legislature, resulting in much progress for the people. The adversarial position taken by the majority of the 24th Legislature with my administration has created chaos and confusion and the public has been ill-served as a result.
ISLANDS NEED TO REPAIR 'BROKEN WINDOWS'
Dear Source:
Your paper keeps me informed about the territory. The articles are great and the writers are knowledgeable. Keep up the good work. First, let me take this opportunity to thank fellow Source reader, Sue Seibel, for her kind words. She was correct in her assertion. "The problems that plague the islands would simply not be tolerated anywhere else." However, let me make it perfectly clear, the quest is not to take cheap-shots at anyone, but to simply provide information that may help stop the decay and restore the quality of life. The people of the territory are dear to me. These are trying times for everyone.
In the article, "Broken Windows" by James Q. Wilson and George L. Kelling in the March 1982 issue of Atlantic Monthly, the authors theorized that neighborhoods become unsafe as a result of gradual disrepair. If one broken window is not repaired, soon other windows will soon be broken and the neighborhood takes on an attitude that people "just don't care." It is in this environment that the seeds of disorder will begin to grow and crime can flourish. This initial disorder comes in the form of panhandlers, drunks, addicts, prostitutes and loiterers. If this element is left unchecked, more serious crimes is sure to follow. Citizens perceive that the neighborhood is unsafe and stay locked in their homes. The streets are taken over by criminals and the condition worsens. The authors maintain that the neighborhood must remain free of broken windows, abandoned cars, graffiti and other signs of disrepair and that nuisance crimes not be ignored in order to maintain an area where serious crime will not flourish.
Successful police strategies to affect the problem suggest community involvement and police support. Community involvement can include: advisory groups; regular neighborhood meetings; neighborhood watch; business watch; PTA memberships; drug free blocks; citizens volunteers with the police neighborhood cleanups; neighborhood safety patrols; and graffiti removal programs.
Leaders have a significant role in creating the state of mind that is the society. They can serve as symbols of the moral unity of the society. They can express the values that hold the society together. Most important, they can conceive and articulate goals that lift people out of their petty preoccupations, carry them above the conflicts that tear a society apart, and unite them in pursuit of objectives worthy of their best efforts.
Ronald V. Davis
Hampton, Virginia
Your paper keeps me informed about the territory. The articles are great and the writers are knowledgeable. Keep up the good work. First, let me take this opportunity to thank fellow Source reader, Sue Seibel, for her kind words. She was correct in her assertion. "The problems that plague the islands would simply not be tolerated anywhere else." However, let me make it perfectly clear, the quest is not to take cheap-shots at anyone, but to simply provide information that may help stop the decay and restore the quality of life. The people of the territory are dear to me. These are trying times for everyone.
In the article, "Broken Windows" by James Q. Wilson and George L. Kelling in the March 1982 issue of Atlantic Monthly, the authors theorized that neighborhoods become unsafe as a result of gradual disrepair. If one broken window is not repaired, soon other windows will soon be broken and the neighborhood takes on an attitude that people "just don't care." It is in this environment that the seeds of disorder will begin to grow and crime can flourish. This initial disorder comes in the form of panhandlers, drunks, addicts, prostitutes and loiterers. If this element is left unchecked, more serious crimes is sure to follow. Citizens perceive that the neighborhood is unsafe and stay locked in their homes. The streets are taken over by criminals and the condition worsens. The authors maintain that the neighborhood must remain free of broken windows, abandoned cars, graffiti and other signs of disrepair and that nuisance crimes not be ignored in order to maintain an area where serious crime will not flourish.
Successful police strategies to affect the problem suggest community involvement and police support. Community involvement can include: advisory groups; regular neighborhood meetings; neighborhood watch; business watch; PTA memberships; drug free blocks; citizens volunteers with the police neighborhood cleanups; neighborhood safety patrols; and graffiti removal programs.
Leaders have a significant role in creating the state of mind that is the society. They can serve as symbols of the moral unity of the society. They can express the values that hold the society together. Most important, they can conceive and articulate goals that lift people out of their petty preoccupations, carry them above the conflicts that tear a society apart, and unite them in pursuit of objectives worthy of their best efforts.
Ronald V. Davis
Hampton, Virginia
Editor's note: We welcome and encourage readers to keep the dialogue going by responding to Source commentary. Letters should be e-mailed with name and place of residence to source@viaccess.net.
'IS THIS WHAT WE WANT FOR OUR CHILDREN?'
Dear Source:
Although I no longer live on St. Croix, I log on each day to keep in touch with my beloved home. A home that I still brag about to my children as warm, loving and yes, "America's Paradise". You see, this is because in my heart this is what it will always be, yet I know it is no longer. I read with foreboding each day the corruption, lack of concern or interest in our children's future that has now become St. Croix. Yes, we do need outside law enforcement. Yes, we do need the citizens' cooperation. Though we need all of this, without outside law enforcement and no cooperation from its citizens, St. Croix will continue to be corrupted by other avenues of loyalty to friends, family and politicians willing to grant favors. St. Croix needs an outside government with no biases to restore order and wipe corruption clean. It needs the citizens to be concerned enough to stand for nothing but the best. It needs businesses to grant jobs to the most qualified and steadfast workers. What St. Croix needs it to start thinking and acting for the good of many and not just for a few. The people of St. Croix need to really look around and ask themselves, is this what we want for our children? Our grandchildren? Because if you think things are bad now……..if nothing is done soon……….God help our future generations.
Juliette Niles
South Carolina
Although I no longer live on St. Croix, I log on each day to keep in touch with my beloved home. A home that I still brag about to my children as warm, loving and yes, "America's Paradise". You see, this is because in my heart this is what it will always be, yet I know it is no longer. I read with foreboding each day the corruption, lack of concern or interest in our children's future that has now become St. Croix. Yes, we do need outside law enforcement. Yes, we do need the citizens' cooperation. Though we need all of this, without outside law enforcement and no cooperation from its citizens, St. Croix will continue to be corrupted by other avenues of loyalty to friends, family and politicians willing to grant favors. St. Croix needs an outside government with no biases to restore order and wipe corruption clean. It needs the citizens to be concerned enough to stand for nothing but the best. It needs businesses to grant jobs to the most qualified and steadfast workers. What St. Croix needs it to start thinking and acting for the good of many and not just for a few. The people of St. Croix need to really look around and ask themselves, is this what we want for our children? Our grandchildren? Because if you think things are bad now……..if nothing is done soon……….God help our future generations.
Juliette Niles
South Carolina
Editor's note: We welcome and encourage readers to keep the dialogue going by responding to Source commentary. Letters should be e-mailed with name and place of residence to source@viaccess.net.
