Oct. 16, 2002 – The Port Authority governing board decided on Wednesday to make do with less for Fiscal Year 2003 — voting to postpone for six months any increases in landing and passenger fees charged airlines and adopting a slimmed-down budget of $75 million.
The board called on VIPA staff and supervisors to cut down on travel expenses and get along with less in the way of materials and supplies in order to make up a $5.3 million shortfall in its earlier 2003 spending plan.
Financial matters dominated the board meeting. The projected shortfall in Aviation Division revenues was one reason a revised budget was submitted for consideration, VIPA spokeswoman Shirley Smith said in a statement released after the meeting.
The board also voted to use "money from its investment accounts" to make up for a loss of $2.5 million in the Aviation Division stemming from the continuing after-effects of last year's Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.
Gordon Finch, VIPA executive director, warned board members that they will have to do something to increase aviation sector revenues six months from now — by raising air carrier fees or by finding another way to bring in more money. Another option, he said, would be to ask the V.I. government for subsidies.
Finch said government subsidies are a fact of life for many port authorities across the nation, including Puerto Rico. "If we do not get subsidies, we have no choice but to raise rates," he said.
The board backed down last month on its earlier plan to raise landing fees by 35 percent after airline executives said at a Sept. 17 public forum called by Finch that they would cut back service or stop serving the territory altogether if the hikes were imposed. (See "Raise fees and lose flights, airlines tell VIPA".)
At Wednesday's meeting, Don Mills, VIPA legal counsel, reminded the board of its obligations to VIPA bondholders and said some means of raising funds to make up for the $5.3 million shortfall must be found in the next six months in order for the agency to keep its favorable rating on the bond market.
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.
VIPA PUTS OFF FEE HIKES, CUTS ITS FY2003 BUDGET
Oct. 16, 2002 – The Port Authority governing board decided on Wednesday to make do with less for Fiscal Year 2003 — voting to postpone for six months any increases in landing and passenger fees charged airlines and adopting a slimmed-down budget of $75 million.
The board called on VIPA staff and supervisors to cut down on travel expenses and get along with less in the way of materials and supplies in order to make up a $5.3 million shortfall in its earlier 2003 spending plan.
Financial matters dominated the board meeting. The projected shortfall in Aviation Division revenues was one reason a revised budget was submitted for consideration, VIPA spokeswoman Shirley Smith said in a statement released after the meeting.
The board also voted to use "money from its investment accounts" to make up for a loss of $2.5 million in the Aviation Division stemming from the continuing after-effects of last year's Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.
Gordon Finch, VIPA executive director, warned board members that they will have to do something to increase aviation sector revenues six months from now — by raising air carrier fees or by finding another way to bring in more money. Another option, he said, would be to ask the V.I. government for subsidies.
Finch said government subsidies are a fact of life for many port authorities across the nation, including Puerto Rico. "If we do not get subsidies, we have no choice but to raise rates," he said.
The board backed down last month on its earlier plan to raise landing fees by 35 percent after airline executives said at a Sept. 17 public forum called by Finch that they would cut back service or stop serving the territory altogether if the hikes were imposed. (See "Raise fees and lose flights, airlines tell VIPA".)
At Wednesday's meeting, Don Mills, VIPA legal counsel, reminded the board of its obligations to VIPA bondholders and said some means of raising funds to make up for the $5.3 million shortfall must be found in the next six months in order for the agency to keep its favorable rating on the bond market.
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 board called on VIPA staff and supervisors to cut down on travel expenses and get along with less in the way of materials and supplies in order to make up a $5.3 million shortfall in its earlier 2003 spending plan.
Financial matters dominated the board meeting. The projected shortfall in Aviation Division revenues was one reason a revised budget was submitted for consideration, VIPA spokeswoman Shirley Smith said in a statement released after the meeting.
The board also voted to use "money from its investment accounts" to make up for a loss of $2.5 million in the Aviation Division stemming from the continuing after-effects of last year's Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.
Gordon Finch, VIPA executive director, warned board members that they will have to do something to increase aviation sector revenues six months from now — by raising air carrier fees or by finding another way to bring in more money. Another option, he said, would be to ask the V.I. government for subsidies.
Finch said government subsidies are a fact of life for many port authorities across the nation, including Puerto Rico. "If we do not get subsidies, we have no choice but to raise rates," he said.
The board backed down last month on its earlier plan to raise landing fees by 35 percent after airline executives said at a Sept. 17 public forum called by Finch that they would cut back service or stop serving the territory altogether if the hikes were imposed. (See "Raise fees and lose flights, airlines tell VIPA".)
At Wednesday's meeting, Don Mills, VIPA legal counsel, reminded the board of its obligations to VIPA bondholders and said some means of raising funds to make up for the $5.3 million shortfall must be found in the next six months in order for the agency to keep its favorable rating on the bond market.
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.
VIPA PUTS OFF FEE HIKES, CUTS ITS FY 2003 BUDGET
Oct. 16, 2002 – The Port Authority governing board decided on Wednesday to make do with less for Fiscal Year 2003 — voting to postpone for six months any increases in landing and passenger fees charged airlines and adopting a slimmed-down budget of $75 million.
The board called on VIPA staff and supervisors to cut down on travel expenses and get along with less in the way of materials and supplies in order to make up a $5.3 million shortfall in its earlier 2003 spending plan.
Financial matters dominated the board meeting. The projected shortfall in Aviation Division revenues was one reason a revised budget was submitted for consideration, VIPA spokeswoman Shirley Smith said in a statement released after the meeting.
The board also voted to use "money from its investment accounts" to make up for a loss of $2.5 million in the Aviation Division stemming from the continuing after-effects of last year's Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.
Gordon Finch, VIPA executive director, warned board members that they will have to do something to increase aviation sector revenues six months from now — by raising air carrier fees or by finding another way to bring in more money. Another option, he said, would be to ask the V.I. government for subsidies.
Finch said government subsidies are a fact of life for many port authorities across the nation, including Puerto Rico. "If we do not get subsidies, we have no choice but to raise rates," he said.
The board backed down last month on its earlier plan to raise landing fees by 35 percent after airline executives said at a Sept. 17 public forum called by Finch that they would cut back service or stop serving the territory altogether if the hikes were imposed. (See "Raise fees and lose flights, airlines tell VIPA".)
At Wednesday's meeting, Don Mills, VIPA legal counsel, reminded the board of its obligations to VIPA bondholders and said some means of raising funds to make up for the $5.3 million shortfall must be found in the next six months in order for the agency to keep its favorable rating on the bond market.
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 board called on VIPA staff and supervisors to cut down on travel expenses and get along with less in the way of materials and supplies in order to make up a $5.3 million shortfall in its earlier 2003 spending plan.
Financial matters dominated the board meeting. The projected shortfall in Aviation Division revenues was one reason a revised budget was submitted for consideration, VIPA spokeswoman Shirley Smith said in a statement released after the meeting.
The board also voted to use "money from its investment accounts" to make up for a loss of $2.5 million in the Aviation Division stemming from the continuing after-effects of last year's Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.
Gordon Finch, VIPA executive director, warned board members that they will have to do something to increase aviation sector revenues six months from now — by raising air carrier fees or by finding another way to bring in more money. Another option, he said, would be to ask the V.I. government for subsidies.
Finch said government subsidies are a fact of life for many port authorities across the nation, including Puerto Rico. "If we do not get subsidies, we have no choice but to raise rates," he said.
The board backed down last month on its earlier plan to raise landing fees by 35 percent after airline executives said at a Sept. 17 public forum called by Finch that they would cut back service or stop serving the territory altogether if the hikes were imposed. (See "Raise fees and lose flights, airlines tell VIPA".)
At Wednesday's meeting, Don Mills, VIPA legal counsel, reminded the board of its obligations to VIPA bondholders and said some means of raising funds to make up for the $5.3 million shortfall must be found in the next six months in order for the agency to keep its favorable rating on the bond market.
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.
DEBIT CARDS REPLACING FOOD STAMP COUPONS
Oct. 16, 2002 – As of Wednesday in the Virgin Islands, some food stamp recipients were paying for their grocery purchases in the same way that many other shoppers do — with plastic.
In place of the familiar brown paper coupons, new recipients of the federal food subsidy program are getting colorful debit cards they take to the supermarket and hand to the cashier to have payment for purchases deducted from their current food-stamp allotment.
The "Sun, Sand and Sea Card" is part of the Electronic Benefit Transfer program being put into operation by the Human Services Department. Benefits administrator Ermin Boschulte says the cards are being given to new clients over the next two weeks in a pilot program. "This is where we're going to test the system," she said, "so those who sign up today will be able to go to the supermarket and shop for food."
Equipment to utilize the benefit cards has been installed at all food stores participating in the food stamp program in the territory, Boschulte said. As with regular debit cards, each time they are used, the amount of the purchase is deducted from the available balance — in this case, of the client's monthly allotment.
Starting Monday in Christiansted, electronic benefit cards will be distributed to an estimated 4,000 V.I. households already enrolled in the food stamp program. Cards will be distributed next Wednesday to Frederiksted recipients, on Oct. 24 to St. John clients and on Oct. 25 to St. Thomas participants. Educational outreach in the cards' use will include the use of a video.
Since current food-stamp recipients have already received their October allotments, Boschulte said, their debit cards will be activated in the first week of November.
Human Services was recognized by the federal government in June for its efficient handling of food stamp distribution and timely reporting of fraud and abuse. Commissioner Sedonie Halbert expressed confidence on Wednesday that her staff will be able to maintain their record of efficiency as the new way of doing things replaces the old.
"If we were accurate before in determining who should get and who should not because they're not eligible, that should not be a problem," she said.
Halbert said little should change once the plastic cards replace the paper coupons. A big change will come internally, she said — with an end to daily trips to the bank by Human Services agents, accompanied by an armed security guard, to pick up the daily supply of stamps for distribution.
Going to the store with their new debit cards may increase clients' confidence level, Halbert said. "When people are standing in line at the supermarket and pull out their coupons, everyone knows they're getting food stamps," she said. "But now, they just take the card and swipe it. Everybody's swiping cards these days."
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.
In place of the familiar brown paper coupons, new recipients of the federal food subsidy program are getting colorful debit cards they take to the supermarket and hand to the cashier to have payment for purchases deducted from their current food-stamp allotment.
The "Sun, Sand and Sea Card" is part of the Electronic Benefit Transfer program being put into operation by the Human Services Department. Benefits administrator Ermin Boschulte says the cards are being given to new clients over the next two weeks in a pilot program. "This is where we're going to test the system," she said, "so those who sign up today will be able to go to the supermarket and shop for food."
Equipment to utilize the benefit cards has been installed at all food stores participating in the food stamp program in the territory, Boschulte said. As with regular debit cards, each time they are used, the amount of the purchase is deducted from the available balance — in this case, of the client's monthly allotment.
Starting Monday in Christiansted, electronic benefit cards will be distributed to an estimated 4,000 V.I. households already enrolled in the food stamp program. Cards will be distributed next Wednesday to Frederiksted recipients, on Oct. 24 to St. John clients and on Oct. 25 to St. Thomas participants. Educational outreach in the cards' use will include the use of a video.
Since current food-stamp recipients have already received their October allotments, Boschulte said, their debit cards will be activated in the first week of November.
Human Services was recognized by the federal government in June for its efficient handling of food stamp distribution and timely reporting of fraud and abuse. Commissioner Sedonie Halbert expressed confidence on Wednesday that her staff will be able to maintain their record of efficiency as the new way of doing things replaces the old.
"If we were accurate before in determining who should get and who should not because they're not eligible, that should not be a problem," she said.
Halbert said little should change once the plastic cards replace the paper coupons. A big change will come internally, she said — with an end to daily trips to the bank by Human Services agents, accompanied by an armed security guard, to pick up the daily supply of stamps for distribution.
Going to the store with their new debit cards may increase clients' confidence level, Halbert said. "When people are standing in line at the supermarket and pull out their coupons, everyone knows they're getting food stamps," she said. "But now, they just take the card and swipe it. Everybody's swiping cards these days."
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.
DEBIT CARDS REPLACING FOOD STAMP COUPONS
Oct. 16, 2002 – As of Wednesday in the Virgin Islands, some food stamp recipients were paying for their grocery purchases in the same way that many other shoppers do — with plastic.
In place of the familiar brown paper coupons, new recipients of the federal food subsidy program are getting colorful debit cards they take to the supermarket and hand to the cashier to have payment for purchases deducted from their current food-stamp allotment.
The "Sun, Sand and Sea Card" is part of the Electronic Benefit Transfer program being put into operation by the Human Services Department. Benefits administrator Ermin Boschulte says the cards are being given to new clients over the next two weeks in a pilot program. "This is where we're going to test the system," she said, "so those who sign up today will be able to go to the supermarket and shop for food."
Equipment to utilize the benefit cards has been installed at all food stores participating in the food stamp program in the territory, Boschulte said. As with regular debit cards, each time they are used, the amount of the purchase is deducted from the available balance — in this case, of the client's monthly allotment.
Starting Monday in Christiansted, electronic benefit cards will be distributed to an estimated 4,000 V.I. households already enrolled in the food stamp program. Cards will be distributed next Wednesday to Frederiksted recipients, on Oct. 24 to St. John clients and on Oct. 25 to St. Thomas participants. Educational outreach in the cards' use will include the use of a video.
Since current food-stamp recipients have already received their October allotments, Boschulte said, their debit cards will be activated in the first week of November.
Human Services was recognized by the federal government in June for its efficient handling of food stamp distribution and timely reporting of fraud and abuse. Commissioner Sedonie Halbert expressed confidence on Wednesday that her staff will be able to maintain their record of efficiency as the new way of doing things replaces the old.
"If we were accurate before in determining who should get and who should not because they're not eligible, that should not be a problem," she said.
Halbert said little should change once the plastic cards replace the paper coupons. A big change will come internally, she said — with an end to daily trips to the bank by Human Services agents, accompanied by an armed security guard, to pick up the daily supply of stamps for distribution.
Going to the store with their new debit cards may increase clients' confidence level, Halbert said. "When people are standing in line at the supermarket and pull out their coupons, everyone knows they're getting food stamps," she said. "But now, they just take the card and swipe it. Everybody's swiping cards these days."
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.
In place of the familiar brown paper coupons, new recipients of the federal food subsidy program are getting colorful debit cards they take to the supermarket and hand to the cashier to have payment for purchases deducted from their current food-stamp allotment.
The "Sun, Sand and Sea Card" is part of the Electronic Benefit Transfer program being put into operation by the Human Services Department. Benefits administrator Ermin Boschulte says the cards are being given to new clients over the next two weeks in a pilot program. "This is where we're going to test the system," she said, "so those who sign up today will be able to go to the supermarket and shop for food."
Equipment to utilize the benefit cards has been installed at all food stores participating in the food stamp program in the territory, Boschulte said. As with regular debit cards, each time they are used, the amount of the purchase is deducted from the available balance — in this case, of the client's monthly allotment.
Starting Monday in Christiansted, electronic benefit cards will be distributed to an estimated 4,000 V.I. households already enrolled in the food stamp program. Cards will be distributed next Wednesday to Frederiksted recipients, on Oct. 24 to St. John clients and on Oct. 25 to St. Thomas participants. Educational outreach in the cards' use will include the use of a video.
Since current food-stamp recipients have already received their October allotments, Boschulte said, their debit cards will be activated in the first week of November.
Human Services was recognized by the federal government in June for its efficient handling of food stamp distribution and timely reporting of fraud and abuse. Commissioner Sedonie Halbert expressed confidence on Wednesday that her staff will be able to maintain their record of efficiency as the new way of doing things replaces the old.
"If we were accurate before in determining who should get and who should not because they're not eligible, that should not be a problem," she said.
Halbert said little should change once the plastic cards replace the paper coupons. A big change will come internally, she said — with an end to daily trips to the bank by Human Services agents, accompanied by an armed security guard, to pick up the daily supply of stamps for distribution.
Going to the store with their new debit cards may increase clients' confidence level, Halbert said. "When people are standing in line at the supermarket and pull out their coupons, everyone knows they're getting food stamps," she said. "But now, they just take the card and swipe it. Everybody's swiping cards these days."
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.
DEBIT CARDS REPLACING FOOD STAMP COUPONS
Oct. 16, 2002 – As of Wednesday in the Virgin Islands, some food stamp recipients were paying for their grocery purchases in the same way that many other shoppers do — with plastic.
In place of the familiar brown paper coupons, new recipients of the federal food subsidy program are getting colorful debit cards they take to the supermarket and hand to the cashier to have payment for purchases deducted from their current food-stamp allotment.
The "Sun, Sand and Sea Card" is part of the Electronic Benefit Transfer program being put into operation by the Human Services Department. Benefits administrator Ermin Boschulte says the cards are being given to new clients over the next two weeks in a pilot program. "This is where we're going to test the system," she said, "so those who sign up today will be able to go to the supermarket and shop for food."
Equipment to utilize the benefit cards has been installed at all food stores participating in the food stamp program in the territory, Boschulte said. As with regular debit cards, each time they are used, the amount of the purchase is deducted from the available balance — in this case, of the client's monthly allotment.
Starting Monday in Christiansted, electronic benefit cards will be distributed to an estimated 4,000 V.I. households already enrolled in the food stamp program. Cards will be distributed next Wednesday to Frederiksted recipients, on Oct. 24 to St. John clients and on Oct. 25 to St. Thomas participants. Educational outreach in the cards' use will include the use of a video.
Since current food-stamp recipients have already received their October allotments, Boschulte said, their debit cards will be activated in the first week of November.
Human Services was recognized by the federal government in June for its efficient handling of food stamp distribution and timely reporting of fraud and abuse. Commissioner Sedonie Halbert expressed confidence on Wednesday that her staff will be able to maintain their record of efficiency as the new way of doing things replaces the old.
"If we were accurate before in determining who should get and who should not because they're not eligible, that should not be a problem," she said.
Halbert said little should change once the plastic cards replace the paper coupons. A big change will come internally, she said — with an end to daily trips to the bank by Human Services agents, accompanied by an armed security guard, to pick up the daily supply of stamps for distribution.
Going to the store with their new debit cards may increase clients' confidence level, Halbert said. "When people are standing in line at the supermarket and pull out their coupons, everyone knows they're getting food stamps," she said. "But now, they just take the card and swipe it. Everybody's swiping cards these days."
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.
In place of the familiar brown paper coupons, new recipients of the federal food subsidy program are getting colorful debit cards they take to the supermarket and hand to the cashier to have payment for purchases deducted from their current food-stamp allotment.
The "Sun, Sand and Sea Card" is part of the Electronic Benefit Transfer program being put into operation by the Human Services Department. Benefits administrator Ermin Boschulte says the cards are being given to new clients over the next two weeks in a pilot program. "This is where we're going to test the system," she said, "so those who sign up today will be able to go to the supermarket and shop for food."
Equipment to utilize the benefit cards has been installed at all food stores participating in the food stamp program in the territory, Boschulte said. As with regular debit cards, each time they are used, the amount of the purchase is deducted from the available balance — in this case, of the client's monthly allotment.
Starting Monday in Christiansted, electronic benefit cards will be distributed to an estimated 4,000 V.I. households already enrolled in the food stamp program. Cards will be distributed next Wednesday to Frederiksted recipients, on Oct. 24 to St. John clients and on Oct. 25 to St. Thomas participants. Educational outreach in the cards' use will include the use of a video.
Since current food-stamp recipients have already received their October allotments, Boschulte said, their debit cards will be activated in the first week of November.
Human Services was recognized by the federal government in June for its efficient handling of food stamp distribution and timely reporting of fraud and abuse. Commissioner Sedonie Halbert expressed confidence on Wednesday that her staff will be able to maintain their record of efficiency as the new way of doing things replaces the old.
"If we were accurate before in determining who should get and who should not because they're not eligible, that should not be a problem," she said.
Halbert said little should change once the plastic cards replace the paper coupons. A big change will come internally, she said — with an end to daily trips to the bank by Human Services agents, accompanied by an armed security guard, to pick up the daily supply of stamps for distribution.
Going to the store with their new debit cards may increase clients' confidence level, Halbert said. "When people are standing in line at the supermarket and pull out their coupons, everyone knows they're getting food stamps," she said. "But now, they just take the card and swipe it. Everybody's swiping cards these days."
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.
DE JONGH REFUTES 'RUMOR' WITH FARRELLY LETTER
Oct. 16, 2002 – In paid advertising published Thursday, candidate for governor John de Jongh Jr. refutes what he termed "outright falsehoods" spread by incumbent Gov. Charles W. Turnbull and the governor's campaign aides.
With the headline "The Truth about WICO," full-page ads placed by de Jongh in the two print daily newspapers display a personal letter he received earlier in the year from the late Gov. Alexander A. Farrelly. In it, the former chief executive described de Jongh's "unequivocal support of the government's purchase of WICO" in late 1992 and 1993.
In the ad, de Jongh takes Turnbull to task for comments made in a radio address on Oct. 4, when the governor questioned what he called de Jongh's departure from a position of importance "during the height of the critical negotiations surrounding the purchase of the West Indian Company Ltd."
According to a memo also appearing in the ad, de Jongh told Turnbull that "your political operatives have been trying to peddle this fabrication for quite some time. It so angered Gov. Farrelly that he wrote to let me know this back in January."
Farrelly's letter to de Jongh characterized "the rumor circulating in the Virgin Islands" regarding de Jongh's role as "both untrue and malicious."
The late governor described de Jongh, who served as his executive assistant, as one of his "closest advisers." He wrote that "at no point" did de Jongh "attempt to thwart my decision or undermine my effort to purchase WICO."
"These many years later," he told de Jongh, "I continue to look upon you as having been one of the bright stars of the Farrelly administration, and I am saddened at the attempt by others to tarnish your role in my administration."
"It is for that reason," Farrelly wrote, "that I have taken the trouble of writing you this letter."
In a television interview last week, when asked about his role in the territory's negotiations to acquire WICO from Danish interests and about his relationship with the late governor, de Jongh reminded show host Amos Carty that Farrelly had appointed him — de Jongh — to the Schneider Hospital board in 1993, a few months after he left formal government service.
In his Oct. 4 radio address, Turnbull told his listeners, "As the election draws near, trust and character are critical factors you should consider when you go to the polls … Let your conscience be your guide. Evaluate the candidates and the lengths they have been willing to go to attain the governorship."
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.
With the headline "The Truth about WICO," full-page ads placed by de Jongh in the two print daily newspapers display a personal letter he received earlier in the year from the late Gov. Alexander A. Farrelly. In it, the former chief executive described de Jongh's "unequivocal support of the government's purchase of WICO" in late 1992 and 1993.
In the ad, de Jongh takes Turnbull to task for comments made in a radio address on Oct. 4, when the governor questioned what he called de Jongh's departure from a position of importance "during the height of the critical negotiations surrounding the purchase of the West Indian Company Ltd."
According to a memo also appearing in the ad, de Jongh told Turnbull that "your political operatives have been trying to peddle this fabrication for quite some time. It so angered Gov. Farrelly that he wrote to let me know this back in January."
Farrelly's letter to de Jongh characterized "the rumor circulating in the Virgin Islands" regarding de Jongh's role as "both untrue and malicious."
The late governor described de Jongh, who served as his executive assistant, as one of his "closest advisers." He wrote that "at no point" did de Jongh "attempt to thwart my decision or undermine my effort to purchase WICO."
"These many years later," he told de Jongh, "I continue to look upon you as having been one of the bright stars of the Farrelly administration, and I am saddened at the attempt by others to tarnish your role in my administration."
"It is for that reason," Farrelly wrote, "that I have taken the trouble of writing you this letter."
In a television interview last week, when asked about his role in the territory's negotiations to acquire WICO from Danish interests and about his relationship with the late governor, de Jongh reminded show host Amos Carty that Farrelly had appointed him — de Jongh — to the Schneider Hospital board in 1993, a few months after he left formal government service.
In his Oct. 4 radio address, Turnbull told his listeners, "As the election draws near, trust and character are critical factors you should consider when you go to the polls … Let your conscience be your guide. Evaluate the candidates and the lengths they have been willing to go to attain the governorship."
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.
DE JONGH REFUTES 'RUMOR' WITH FARRELLY LETTER
Oct. 16, 2002 – In paid advertising published Thursday; candidate for governor John de Jongh Jr. refutes what he termed "outright falsehoods" spread by incumbent Gov. Charles W. Turnbull and the governor's campaign aides.
With the headline "The Truth about WICO," full-page ads placed by de Jongh in the two print daily newspapers display a personal letter he received earlier in the year from the late Gov. Alexander A. Farrelly. In it, the former chief executive described de Jongh's "unequivocal support of the government's purchase of WICO" in late 1992 and 1993.
In the ad, de Jongh takes Turnbull to task for comments made in a radio address on Oct. 4, when the governor questioned what he called de Jongh's departure from a position of importance "during the height of the critical negotiations surrounding the purchase of the West Indian Company Ltd."
According to a memo also appearing in the ad, de Jongh told Turnbull that "your political operatives have been trying to peddle this fabrication for quite some time. It so angered Gov. Farrelly that he wrote to let me know this back in January."
Farrelly's letter to de Jongh characterized "the rumor circulating in the Virgin Islands" regarding de Jongh's role as "both untrue and malicious."
The late governor described de Jongh, who served as his executive assistant, as one of his "closest advisers." He wrote that "at no point" did de Jongh "attempt to thwart my decision or undermine my effort to purchase WICO."
"These many years later," he told de Jongh, "I continue to look upon you as having been one of the bright stars of the Farrelly administration, and I am saddened at the attempt by others to tarnish your role in my administration."
"It is for that reason," Farrelly wrote, "that I have taken the trouble of writing you this letter."
In a television interview last week, when asked about his role in the territory's negotiations to acquire WICO from Danish interests and about his relationship with the late governor, de Jongh reminded show host Amos Carty that Farrelly had appointed him — de Jongh — to the Schneider Hospital board in 1993, a few months after he left formal government service.
In his Oct. 4 radio address, Turnbull told his listeners, "As the election draws near, trust and character are critical factors you should consider when you go to the polls … Let your conscience be your guide. Evaluate the candidates and the lengths they have been willing to go to attain the governorship."
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.
With the headline "The Truth about WICO," full-page ads placed by de Jongh in the two print daily newspapers display a personal letter he received earlier in the year from the late Gov. Alexander A. Farrelly. In it, the former chief executive described de Jongh's "unequivocal support of the government's purchase of WICO" in late 1992 and 1993.
In the ad, de Jongh takes Turnbull to task for comments made in a radio address on Oct. 4, when the governor questioned what he called de Jongh's departure from a position of importance "during the height of the critical negotiations surrounding the purchase of the West Indian Company Ltd."
According to a memo also appearing in the ad, de Jongh told Turnbull that "your political operatives have been trying to peddle this fabrication for quite some time. It so angered Gov. Farrelly that he wrote to let me know this back in January."
Farrelly's letter to de Jongh characterized "the rumor circulating in the Virgin Islands" regarding de Jongh's role as "both untrue and malicious."
The late governor described de Jongh, who served as his executive assistant, as one of his "closest advisers." He wrote that "at no point" did de Jongh "attempt to thwart my decision or undermine my effort to purchase WICO."
"These many years later," he told de Jongh, "I continue to look upon you as having been one of the bright stars of the Farrelly administration, and I am saddened at the attempt by others to tarnish your role in my administration."
"It is for that reason," Farrelly wrote, "that I have taken the trouble of writing you this letter."
In a television interview last week, when asked about his role in the territory's negotiations to acquire WICO from Danish interests and about his relationship with the late governor, de Jongh reminded show host Amos Carty that Farrelly had appointed him — de Jongh — to the Schneider Hospital board in 1993, a few months after he left formal government service.
In his Oct. 4 radio address, Turnbull told his listeners, "As the election draws near, trust and character are critical factors you should consider when you go to the polls … Let your conscience be your guide. Evaluate the candidates and the lengths they have been willing to go to attain the governorship."
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.
DE JONGH REFUTES 'RUMOR' WITH FARRELLY LETTER
Oct. 16, 2002 – In paid advertising published Thursday; candidate for governor John de Jongh Jr. refutes what he termed "outright falsehoods" spread by incumbent Gov. Charles W. Turnbull and the governor's campaign aides.
With the headline "The Truth about WICO," full-page ads placed by de Jongh in the two print daily newspapers display a personal letter he received earlier in the year from the late Gov. Alexander A. Farrelly. In it, the former chief executive described de Jongh's "unequivocal support of the government's purchase of WICO" in late 1992 and 1993.
In the ad, de Jongh takes Turnbull to task for comments made in a radio address on Oct. 4, when the governor questioned what he called de Jongh's departure from a position of importance "during the height of the critical negotiations surrounding the purchase of the West Indian Company Ltd."
According to a memo also appearing in the ad, de Jongh told Turnbull that "your political operatives have been trying to peddle this fabrication for quite some time. It so angered Gov. Farrelly that he wrote to let me know this back in January."
Farrelly's letter to de Jongh characterized "the rumor circulating in the Virgin Islands" regarding de Jongh's role as "both untrue and malicious."
The late governor described de Jongh, who served as his executive assistant, as one of his "closest advisers." He wrote that "at no point" did de Jongh "attempt to thwart my decision or undermine my effort to purchase WICO."
"These many years later," he told de Jongh, "I continue to look upon you as having been one of the bright stars of the Farrelly administration, and I am saddened at the attempt by others to tarnish your role in my administration."
"It is for that reason," Farrelly wrote, "that I have taken the trouble of writing you this letter."
In a television interview last week, when asked about his role in the territory's negotiations to acquire WICO from Danish interests and about his relationship with the late governor, de Jongh reminded show host Amos Carty that Farrelly had appointed him — de Jongh — to the Schneider Hospital board in 1993, a few months after he left formal government service.
In his Oct. 4 radio address, Turnbull told his listeners, "As the election draws near, trust and character are critical factors you should consider when you go to the polls … Let your conscience be your guide. Evaluate the candidates and the lengths they have been willing to go to attain the governorship."
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.
With the headline "The Truth about WICO," full-page ads placed by de Jongh in the two print daily newspapers display a personal letter he received earlier in the year from the late Gov. Alexander A. Farrelly. In it, the former chief executive described de Jongh's "unequivocal support of the government's purchase of WICO" in late 1992 and 1993.
In the ad, de Jongh takes Turnbull to task for comments made in a radio address on Oct. 4, when the governor questioned what he called de Jongh's departure from a position of importance "during the height of the critical negotiations surrounding the purchase of the West Indian Company Ltd."
According to a memo also appearing in the ad, de Jongh told Turnbull that "your political operatives have been trying to peddle this fabrication for quite some time. It so angered Gov. Farrelly that he wrote to let me know this back in January."
Farrelly's letter to de Jongh characterized "the rumor circulating in the Virgin Islands" regarding de Jongh's role as "both untrue and malicious."
The late governor described de Jongh, who served as his executive assistant, as one of his "closest advisers." He wrote that "at no point" did de Jongh "attempt to thwart my decision or undermine my effort to purchase WICO."
"These many years later," he told de Jongh, "I continue to look upon you as having been one of the bright stars of the Farrelly administration, and I am saddened at the attempt by others to tarnish your role in my administration."
"It is for that reason," Farrelly wrote, "that I have taken the trouble of writing you this letter."
In a television interview last week, when asked about his role in the territory's negotiations to acquire WICO from Danish interests and about his relationship with the late governor, de Jongh reminded show host Amos Carty that Farrelly had appointed him — de Jongh — to the Schneider Hospital board in 1993, a few months after he left formal government service.
In his Oct. 4 radio address, Turnbull told his listeners, "As the election draws near, trust and character are critical factors you should consider when you go to the polls … Let your conscience be your guide. Evaluate the candidates and the lengths they have been willing to go to attain the governorship."
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.
UVI CELEBRATES WORLD FOOD DAY
Oct. 16, 2002 – The University of the Virgin Islands presents its annual World Food Day celebration from noon to 6 p.m. Sunday on the St. Croix campus. This year's theme, "Water: Source of Food Security, " focuses on the essential role water plays in ensuring sustainable food resources for a growing world population.
UVI's campus grounds will be set up fair-style with food and fresh produce on sale. The free celebration includes workshops, field tours, children's games, a Caribbean cook-off competition and a vegetable seedling distribution. Stanley and the Ten Sleepless Knights and Glamorous Sounds will provide entertainment.
During the official opening, UVI's Vice Provost for Research and Public Service Dr. Henry Smith will give the keynote address based on the theme.
World Food Day activities are sponsored by UVI's Cooperative Extension Service in partnership with UVI's Agricultural Experiment Station.
Community members are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item for the food drive.
Highlights include:
– 1-2 p.m.: Official Opening
– 1-4 p.m.: Caribbean CookOff Competition
– 2-3 p.m.: Field Tour
– 2-2:45 p.m.: Workshops: Drip Irrigation, Food Demonstration (for children), Hot Pepper Production
– 3-3:45 p.m.: Workshops: Safe and Healthy Drinking Water, Citrus Production
– 4-4:45 p.m.: Workshops: Aquaculture Options for the V.I., Food Demonstration, Poultry Production
– 4-5 p.m.: Field Tour
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.
UVI's campus grounds will be set up fair-style with food and fresh produce on sale. The free celebration includes workshops, field tours, children's games, a Caribbean cook-off competition and a vegetable seedling distribution. Stanley and the Ten Sleepless Knights and Glamorous Sounds will provide entertainment.
During the official opening, UVI's Vice Provost for Research and Public Service Dr. Henry Smith will give the keynote address based on the theme.
World Food Day activities are sponsored by UVI's Cooperative Extension Service in partnership with UVI's Agricultural Experiment Station.
Community members are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item for the food drive.
Highlights include:
– 1-2 p.m.: Official Opening
– 1-4 p.m.: Caribbean CookOff Competition
– 2-3 p.m.: Field Tour
– 2-2:45 p.m.: Workshops: Drip Irrigation, Food Demonstration (for children), Hot Pepper Production
– 3-3:45 p.m.: Workshops: Safe and Healthy Drinking Water, Citrus Production
– 4-4:45 p.m.: Workshops: Aquaculture Options for the V.I., Food Demonstration, Poultry Production
– 4-5 p.m.: Field Tour
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.
