The St. Croix Hiking Association will hold its monthly meeting in room 133 of the UVI Extension Services. Plans for the Sept. 15 hike in the Butler Bay, Nicholas and Annaly area will be discussed.
For more details call 778-7910, 778-2076 or 779-3551.
AUG. 25 IS SUMMER 'STARVING ARTISTS DAY' AT WHIM
Aug. 20, 2002 – The 14th annual Starving Artists Day summer show is this Sunday at the Whim Museum.
Some 50 visual artists and artisans will be exhibiting their work, but there also will be performance art and culinary art galore.
Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $3 for adults and free for children.
There will be live jazz by Bennie Jacobs El and the Complex Combo from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Henry Willock's St. Croix All Stars Steel Band will take over from 2 to 5 p.m.
For those who arrive before noon, breakfast will be available from Roque's Catering Service. Local foods and drinks will be sold throughout the day. And for food to take home as well as nibble on site, Farmers in Action will have a fresh produce stand chock full of mangoes, pineapples, passion fruit, coconuts and more.
Free museum tours will be given throughout the day, and visitors can view historic photos in the research library. In a tent set up on the grounds, the Museum Store will be selling selected furniture, artwork and decorative accessories at savings of 40 to 70 percent.
Especially for children, there will be storytelling under the tamarind tree and kids' games and other activities.
Tickets for a 50/50 cash raffle to benefit the museum will be sold until 4 p.m., when the winner will be drawn.
Vendor sales are by cash or check; plastic is not accepted.
It's not too late for art and craft vendors to sign up for a booth. To do so, or to learn more, call the Whim office at 772-0598.
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.
Some 50 visual artists and artisans will be exhibiting their work, but there also will be performance art and culinary art galore.
Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $3 for adults and free for children.
There will be live jazz by Bennie Jacobs El and the Complex Combo from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Henry Willock's St. Croix All Stars Steel Band will take over from 2 to 5 p.m.
For those who arrive before noon, breakfast will be available from Roque's Catering Service. Local foods and drinks will be sold throughout the day. And for food to take home as well as nibble on site, Farmers in Action will have a fresh produce stand chock full of mangoes, pineapples, passion fruit, coconuts and more.
Free museum tours will be given throughout the day, and visitors can view historic photos in the research library. In a tent set up on the grounds, the Museum Store will be selling selected furniture, artwork and decorative accessories at savings of 40 to 70 percent.
Especially for children, there will be storytelling under the tamarind tree and kids' games and other activities.
Tickets for a 50/50 cash raffle to benefit the museum will be sold until 4 p.m., when the winner will be drawn.
Vendor sales are by cash or check; plastic is not accepted.
It's not too late for art and craft vendors to sign up for a booth. To do so, or to learn more, call the Whim office at 772-0598.
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.
AUG. 25 CARIBBEAN LUAU AT UVI IS CANCELLED
Aug. 22, 2002 – The Caribbean Luau, which was to be held on the campus of the University of the Virgin Islands Sunday, Aug. 25, has been cancelled.
Look for the event to be rescheduled in late September, for the community and university people, with free admission, music, a pig roast and barbecue food, hula dancing, leis and more.
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.
Look for the event to be rescheduled in late September, for the community and university people, with free admission, music, a pig roast and barbecue food, hula dancing, leis and more.
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.
TIPICO JAZZ ENSEMBLE HAS FRIDAY'S SUNSET JAZZ GIG
Aug. 13, 2002 – Friday's sunset is still on as scheduled, and it's the third Friday of the month; so, that means it's time for the August "Sunset Jazz in Frederiksted" concert in Veterans Park on the town waterfront. This one promises to be a summer sizzler with the emphasis on hot Latin rhythms.
Doing the honors for the free public performance from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. sponsored by the Frederiksted Economic Development Association will be Rene Encarnacion and The Tipico Jazz Ensemble.
The ensemble comprises Encarnacion on congas, Demitri "Pikey" Copeman on saxophone, Otto James on keyboards, Michael Encarnacion on bass, Guillermo Encarnacion on timbales, and Junie Bomba on bongos.
Rene Encarnacion is known as a conga drummer/percussionist but also is an accomplished bass player. His first instrument was steelpan, and his first formal music studies were at the Seventh-day Adventist School on St. Croix. "Everyone else at school had guitars, so I decided to play bongos," he says. He was the leader for a decade of Conjunto Tipico de Santa Cruz and was part of Sanora Santa Cruz with Ruben Santana and legendary sax man Scypio. He also worked with Tito Puente and Jovani, a top Latin conga player. He can be heard on The Mighty Sparrow's "Saltfish" album and with Tuff Enough and The Rhythmix.
Copeman has been a jazz fan since his Central High School days. A self-taught saxophonist, he founded the Native Rhythm Band and has performed with such local groups as Jamsie and the Happy Seven, Free Association and Taco and the Playboys. His recording credits include "Joe Paris and the Hot Shots, Vol. 4" with King Derby and the "Zoop Zoop" anthology with Paris; he recently was in the studio with Rico and The Stars for a forthcoming CD. His day job is teaching art at Lew Muckle School, and he's also an accomplished painter as well as a poet whose work can be found in the V.I. poetry anthology "Yellow Seed Is Blooming."
James credits his siblings and trumpeter Eric Davis as early influences and has fond memories of "keg," the art of making drums from a key and goat skin. He recalls the excitement of listening to Latin music on Puerto Rican radio stations as a youngster. He studied at the Manhattan School of Music and performed with top Latin bands in New York including Orchestra Tropicana. Upon his return home to St. Croix, he joined forces with the top names in music, including Archie Thomas, Mario De Chabert, Mario Moorehead, The Vibratones and Rudy Schulterbrandt's band, where he played timbales.
Michael Encarnacion's first musical interest was singing, but he switched to keyboards and bass. A self-taught musician, he got his first gig with his Uncle Rene's Conjunto Tipico de Santa Cruz. He also has worked with Code 9, Another Level, and Liquid Sound and currently is music director for the Latin band Mo Tempo.
Guillermo Encarnacion took up the trumpet first, but when his Uncle Rene saw him beating on an old fiberglass chair (and anything else he could beat on), he went out and bought the young man his first bongos. In 1987, Guillermo joined Conjunto Tipico de Santa Cruz for his first gig then went on to work with Fuego Latino and Mario Thomas's Rhythmix. He currently is a member of Mo Tempo.
Bomba says that at about age 7, "I used to sneak down the hill to listen to The Vibratones … and hope my mother wouldn't find out." By 13, he was avidly listening to Joe Cuba, Eddie Palmieri and Tito Puente. His first instrument was a conga drum made from a keg. He got his musical training in the St. Patrick's School band, where he played drums and percussion. He has played with various St. Croix ensembles, including Jamsie and His All Stars, Horace Clarke and Freddie Williams.
"Sunset Jazz" is a family event, with accompanied youngsters welcome. The few benches in the park will be claimed by early comers, so the best bet for comfort during the concert is to bring your own folding chairs or a blanket to spread out on the grass.
FEDA will operate a cash bar, and concertgoers are encouraged to stay in town afterward to dine at the establishment of their choice and/or to take in any of the entertainment options offered on a Friday night in Frederiksted.
The next "Sunset Jazz in Frederiksted" concert, on Sept. 20, will feature The Jack Petersen Jazz Quartet. For more information, call 719-3672 or e-mail to Sunset Jazz.
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.
Doing the honors for the free public performance from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. sponsored by the Frederiksted Economic Development Association will be Rene Encarnacion and The Tipico Jazz Ensemble.
The ensemble comprises Encarnacion on congas, Demitri "Pikey" Copeman on saxophone, Otto James on keyboards, Michael Encarnacion on bass, Guillermo Encarnacion on timbales, and Junie Bomba on bongos.
Rene Encarnacion is known as a conga drummer/percussionist but also is an accomplished bass player. His first instrument was steelpan, and his first formal music studies were at the Seventh-day Adventist School on St. Croix. "Everyone else at school had guitars, so I decided to play bongos," he says. He was the leader for a decade of Conjunto Tipico de Santa Cruz and was part of Sanora Santa Cruz with Ruben Santana and legendary sax man Scypio. He also worked with Tito Puente and Jovani, a top Latin conga player. He can be heard on The Mighty Sparrow's "Saltfish" album and with Tuff Enough and The Rhythmix.
Copeman has been a jazz fan since his Central High School days. A self-taught saxophonist, he founded the Native Rhythm Band and has performed with such local groups as Jamsie and the Happy Seven, Free Association and Taco and the Playboys. His recording credits include "Joe Paris and the Hot Shots, Vol. 4" with King Derby and the "Zoop Zoop" anthology with Paris; he recently was in the studio with Rico and The Stars for a forthcoming CD. His day job is teaching art at Lew Muckle School, and he's also an accomplished painter as well as a poet whose work can be found in the V.I. poetry anthology "Yellow Seed Is Blooming."
James credits his siblings and trumpeter Eric Davis as early influences and has fond memories of "keg," the art of making drums from a key and goat skin. He recalls the excitement of listening to Latin music on Puerto Rican radio stations as a youngster. He studied at the Manhattan School of Music and performed with top Latin bands in New York including Orchestra Tropicana. Upon his return home to St. Croix, he joined forces with the top names in music, including Archie Thomas, Mario De Chabert, Mario Moorehead, The Vibratones and Rudy Schulterbrandt's band, where he played timbales.
Michael Encarnacion's first musical interest was singing, but he switched to keyboards and bass. A self-taught musician, he got his first gig with his Uncle Rene's Conjunto Tipico de Santa Cruz. He also has worked with Code 9, Another Level, and Liquid Sound and currently is music director for the Latin band Mo Tempo.
Guillermo Encarnacion took up the trumpet first, but when his Uncle Rene saw him beating on an old fiberglass chair (and anything else he could beat on), he went out and bought the young man his first bongos. In 1987, Guillermo joined Conjunto Tipico de Santa Cruz for his first gig then went on to work with Fuego Latino and Mario Thomas's Rhythmix. He currently is a member of Mo Tempo.
Bomba says that at about age 7, "I used to sneak down the hill to listen to The Vibratones … and hope my mother wouldn't find out." By 13, he was avidly listening to Joe Cuba, Eddie Palmieri and Tito Puente. His first instrument was a conga drum made from a keg. He got his musical training in the St. Patrick's School band, where he played drums and percussion. He has played with various St. Croix ensembles, including Jamsie and His All Stars, Horace Clarke and Freddie Williams.
"Sunset Jazz" is a family event, with accompanied youngsters welcome. The few benches in the park will be claimed by early comers, so the best bet for comfort during the concert is to bring your own folding chairs or a blanket to spread out on the grass.
FEDA will operate a cash bar, and concertgoers are encouraged to stay in town afterward to dine at the establishment of their choice and/or to take in any of the entertainment options offered on a Friday night in Frederiksted.
The next "Sunset Jazz in Frederiksted" concert, on Sept. 20, will feature The Jack Petersen Jazz Quartet. For more information, call 719-3672 or e-mail to Sunset Jazz.
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.
EDUCATION BOARD AND UVI NEED TO COLLABORATE
Dear Source,
This is an open letter to the V.I. Board of Education and to the University of the Virgin Islands. I recently applied for a position as an assistant principal on St. Thomas. I hold a Master's Degree in Education with a concentration in Educational Administration from the University of the Virgin Islands (then- College of the V.I.). In addition, I have served as Department Chairperson for Foreign Languages at the Ivanna Eudora Kean High School for the past nine years. I hold teaching certificates for the elementary and secondary levels since 1989. I, therefore, felt well qualified for the position that I was seeking.
Much to my surprise, however, I was informed by Ms. Alscess Lewis-Brown, director of the Division of Human Resources of the Department of Education (in a letter dated May 30, 2002), that I would not be granted the opportunity to interview for the position because I was lacking "certain requirements" to be considered for certification by the Board. Certification was an eligibility criteria for the position. After making calls to Ms. Lewis-Brown's office as well as to the V.I. Board of Education, I was informed by personnel at both offices that a Master's degree with a concentration in administration as is offered by the University of the Virgin Islands does not qualify one for automatic board certification because the Board seeks three courses in administration beyond the U.V.I. requirement .
I have written to both Ms. Lewis Brown and to the V.I. Board of Education seeking clarification as to exactly what these courses should be but to no avail. I recently received a memorandum from Dr. Yvonne Williams-Henry, Co-Chair of the Professional Staff Certification Committee, indicating, once again, that in order to complete the certification process for Assistant Principal/Principal I needed: "Additional Credits in Major Field: (3) Administration" This memo gave me the impression that I only needed three credits in administration as opposed to three courses in administration (nine credits). I have yet to receive clarification or an indication as to what course titles the board is recommending.
I know that some of our current administrators received their Master's Degrees from the University of the Virgin Islands (formerly C.V.I.) and had no problems securing their positions. I consider it unfortunate to be denied a position due to the fact that the Board is now operating on a new policy. I received my degree in 1985 when, it seems, such policies were obviously not in effect.
If there is a problem with UVI's Masters Program, I would like to see the Board and the University collaborating to ensure that UVI graduates are board certifiable. Since the V.I. Code (Title 17, Sections 121-123) gives the Board the right to establish criteria for the certification, selection, and appointment of principals and other professionals of the Department of Education, collaboration by these two entities could only prove helpful to all involved and ultimately to the community as a whole. Working together we can help to improve the quality of education, truly make education our top priority, and enhance the quality of life in these our precious Virgin Islands.
Sincerely,
Myrna V. van Beverhoudt
This is an open letter to the V.I. Board of Education and to the University of the Virgin Islands. I recently applied for a position as an assistant principal on St. Thomas. I hold a Master's Degree in Education with a concentration in Educational Administration from the University of the Virgin Islands (then- College of the V.I.). In addition, I have served as Department Chairperson for Foreign Languages at the Ivanna Eudora Kean High School for the past nine years. I hold teaching certificates for the elementary and secondary levels since 1989. I, therefore, felt well qualified for the position that I was seeking.
Much to my surprise, however, I was informed by Ms. Alscess Lewis-Brown, director of the Division of Human Resources of the Department of Education (in a letter dated May 30, 2002), that I would not be granted the opportunity to interview for the position because I was lacking "certain requirements" to be considered for certification by the Board. Certification was an eligibility criteria for the position. After making calls to Ms. Lewis-Brown's office as well as to the V.I. Board of Education, I was informed by personnel at both offices that a Master's degree with a concentration in administration as is offered by the University of the Virgin Islands does not qualify one for automatic board certification because the Board seeks three courses in administration beyond the U.V.I. requirement .
I have written to both Ms. Lewis Brown and to the V.I. Board of Education seeking clarification as to exactly what these courses should be but to no avail. I recently received a memorandum from Dr. Yvonne Williams-Henry, Co-Chair of the Professional Staff Certification Committee, indicating, once again, that in order to complete the certification process for Assistant Principal/Principal I needed: "Additional Credits in Major Field: (3) Administration" This memo gave me the impression that I only needed three credits in administration as opposed to three courses in administration (nine credits). I have yet to receive clarification or an indication as to what course titles the board is recommending.
I know that some of our current administrators received their Master's Degrees from the University of the Virgin Islands (formerly C.V.I.) and had no problems securing their positions. I consider it unfortunate to be denied a position due to the fact that the Board is now operating on a new policy. I received my degree in 1985 when, it seems, such policies were obviously not in effect.
If there is a problem with UVI's Masters Program, I would like to see the Board and the University collaborating to ensure that UVI graduates are board certifiable. Since the V.I. Code (Title 17, Sections 121-123) gives the Board the right to establish criteria for the certification, selection, and appointment of principals and other professionals of the Department of Education, collaboration by these two entities could only prove helpful to all involved and ultimately to the community as a whole. Working together we can help to improve the quality of education, truly make education our top priority, and enhance the quality of life in these our precious Virgin Islands.
Sincerely,
Myrna V. van Beverhoudt
VITEMA AND UVI PRESENT HAZARD FORUM
Aug. 22, 2002 – VITEMA and the University of the Virgin Islands Small Business Development Center will present a forum on natural hazards management from 9 a.m. to noon Friday, Aug. 23, at the Marriott Frenchmen's Reef Beach Resort.
Panelists will discuss disaster preparedness planning, the insurance industry, mitigation, earthquake and hurricane preparedness, stress management, and emergency management. The community is invited to attend. Admission is free.
The forum is brought in conjunction with the Virgin Islands Insurance Association, WSTA, TV2, St. Thomas/St. John Chamber of Commerce, St. Thomas/St. John Hotel Association, Price Smart, Knight Quality Stations and the Frenchtown Civic Association.
For more information contact SBDC at 776-3206 or VITEMA at 774-2244.
Natural Hazards Management Forum Agenda
8:30 a.m. Reception, Networking
9:00 a.m. Welcome and Introduction. Derek M. Hodge, moderator.
9:05 a.m. Opening Remarks. Adj. Gen. Cleave McBean, executive director of VITEMA.
9:10 a.m. Presentation: Hurricane/Earthquake Preparedness. Roy A. Watlington, UVI.
9:25 a.m. Banking and Insurance. Glendina Matthew, Assistant Director, Office of the Lt. Gov.
9:40 a.m. V.I. Insurance Association: private sector perspective. David C. Ridgway, president.
9:55 a.m. Planning and Natural Resources Department. Brant E. Blyden, territorial director of permits.
10:10 a.m. Federal Emergency Management Agency. Marie E. Gonzalez, deputy federal coordinating officer.
10:25 a.m. U.S. Small Business Administration. Calford Martin, center manager, SBA's disaster office.
10:35 a.m. UVI-Small Business Development Center. Warren T. Bush, state director.
10:45 a.m. Exemplary Practices in Emergency Management Planning. Col. Cyrille W. Singleton, island manager, Tropical Shipping.
11:05 a.m. Presentation: Hurricane Related Stress Management. Dr. Gloria B. Callwood, RN.
11:20-11:50 a.m. Question and Answer Period, led by moderator
11:50 a.m. Acknowledgements, Warren T. Bush.
11:55 a.m. Closing Words, moderator.
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 v… click here
Panelists will discuss disaster preparedness planning, the insurance industry, mitigation, earthquake and hurricane preparedness, stress management, and emergency management. The community is invited to attend. Admission is free.
The forum is brought in conjunction with the Virgin Islands Insurance Association, WSTA, TV2, St. Thomas/St. John Chamber of Commerce, St. Thomas/St. John Hotel Association, Price Smart, Knight Quality Stations and the Frenchtown Civic Association.
For more information contact SBDC at 776-3206 or VITEMA at 774-2244.
Natural Hazards Management Forum Agenda
8:30 a.m. Reception, Networking
9:00 a.m. Welcome and Introduction. Derek M. Hodge, moderator.
9:05 a.m. Opening Remarks. Adj. Gen. Cleave McBean, executive director of VITEMA.
9:10 a.m. Presentation: Hurricane/Earthquake Preparedness. Roy A. Watlington, UVI.
9:25 a.m. Banking and Insurance. Glendina Matthew, Assistant Director, Office of the Lt. Gov.
9:40 a.m. V.I. Insurance Association: private sector perspective. David C. Ridgway, president.
9:55 a.m. Planning and Natural Resources Department. Brant E. Blyden, territorial director of permits.
10:10 a.m. Federal Emergency Management Agency. Marie E. Gonzalez, deputy federal coordinating officer.
10:25 a.m. U.S. Small Business Administration. Calford Martin, center manager, SBA's disaster office.
10:35 a.m. UVI-Small Business Development Center. Warren T. Bush, state director.
10:45 a.m. Exemplary Practices in Emergency Management Planning. Col. Cyrille W. Singleton, island manager, Tropical Shipping.
11:05 a.m. Presentation: Hurricane Related Stress Management. Dr. Gloria B. Callwood, RN.
11:20-11:50 a.m. Question and Answer Period, led by moderator
11:50 a.m. Acknowledgements, Warren T. Bush.
11:55 a.m. Closing Words, moderator.
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 v… click here
2 EPIPHANY THEATER FUND RAISERS THIS WEEKEND
Aug. 21, 2002 – Embarking on its second full season, St. John's Epiphany Theater Company will be on the move this weekend to raise funds at both ends of the island.
And sometime in the next few months, it will making a big, permanent move — to a new performance venue "to be announced."
Kicking things off this weekend is a benefit show of sketches and music set for Saturday night at Paradiso Restaurant in Mongoose Junction, with an encore show to follow on Sunday night at Skinny Legs.
At the Paradiso event in Cruz Bay, set for 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Epiphany members will perform in the comedy revue, and the St. John Iguanas will provide the music — with internationally acclaimed jazz violinist and frequent St. John visitor Brian Silber as special guest artist.
Admission is a $25 donation, which includes complimentary wine and hors d'oeuvres plus admission to the Paradisco for dancing after the show. There'll also be a cash bar. Tickets are being sold at both Connections offices and at The Mail Center in the Marketplace; they'll also be available at the door.
For the Skinny Legs show in Coral Bay on Sunday, which also is to start at 6 p.m., the show and the music will be the same, but without the food and drink accompaniments. Admission is a $10 donation, payable at the door.
Tickets for a raffle of prizes including resort accommodations and scenic flights over the islands are being sold by Epiphany members now and will be available at both venues. They're $5 apiece or five for 20.
Epiphany's move to a new home is necessitated by the fact that its first season home is about to go out of existence. The three premiere season productions "Bus Stop," "The Tender Trap" and "Picnic" — were staged at the Marketplace, in space the management made available for community events. But now, with that area being converted into office space, the benefit shows are "to raise funds to establish a permanent community theater and multi-use facility," artistic director Paul Devine says.
"The theater company would like to thank the owners and staff of the Marketplace for their kindness in allowing the company to put on our performances as a gift to the community of St. John," Devine says. They not only provided a free venue but helped Epiphany get up and running by providing lighting, materials for constructing sets and administrative support, he says.
Special thanks go to Marketplace principal David Mugar, manager Ce Ce Burns, designer Glen Spear, and the Bertolino and Swan families "for their constant help and encouragement," he adds, "and to the staff, the performers and the people of the Virgin Islands for their support and dedication."
Epiphany has been functioning under the auspices of the not-for-profit Good for St. John corporation, and donations to the theater company may be made as a tax-free contribution to the Good for St. John Foundation, Devine says. Epiphany "will be soon applying for individual non-profit status as a Virgin Islands corporation," he adds, and will then seek federal tax-exempt 501(c)(3) status. After that, its board plans to pursue grant support from arts funding organizations.
Meantime, "regardless of the fact that no permanent facility is available at this time," he says, plans are proceeding for the season's first production, the venerable Broadway musical "The Fantasticks."
The show, which will be Epiphany's first musical, is to open on Nov. 22 and run for three weekends, through Dec. 8. The first casting call was Monday and a second is set for Aug. 29, at 6 p.m. in the theater at the Marketplace. Those wishing to audition should being sheet music for a song to perform; an accompanist will be provided. Casting needs are a young man and a young woman in their late teens, and five adults of either gender, Devine says.
Lisa Duncan will direct the production, with Elizabeth Putnam as choreographer and Danny Silber as musical director. For more information on auditioning or getting involved behind the scenes, call Duncan at 714-6087 or contact Devine by calling 714-2807 or e-mailing to Epiphany Theater.
Epiphany "is dedicated to providing quality theater to the community of St. John and also to providing an outlet for those persons interested in or with skills in the theater arts," Devine says. Anyone with the desire to get involved in theater is encouraged to try out for roles or to apply for production positions. Devine says the company staff includes individuals "with many years of production and performing who want to create a membership of persons interested in becoming part of the magic of theater."
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.
And sometime in the next few months, it will making a big, permanent move — to a new performance venue "to be announced."
Kicking things off this weekend is a benefit show of sketches and music set for Saturday night at Paradiso Restaurant in Mongoose Junction, with an encore show to follow on Sunday night at Skinny Legs.
At the Paradiso event in Cruz Bay, set for 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Epiphany members will perform in the comedy revue, and the St. John Iguanas will provide the music — with internationally acclaimed jazz violinist and frequent St. John visitor Brian Silber as special guest artist.
Admission is a $25 donation, which includes complimentary wine and hors d'oeuvres plus admission to the Paradisco for dancing after the show. There'll also be a cash bar. Tickets are being sold at both Connections offices and at The Mail Center in the Marketplace; they'll also be available at the door.
For the Skinny Legs show in Coral Bay on Sunday, which also is to start at 6 p.m., the show and the music will be the same, but without the food and drink accompaniments. Admission is a $10 donation, payable at the door.
Tickets for a raffle of prizes including resort accommodations and scenic flights over the islands are being sold by Epiphany members now and will be available at both venues. They're $5 apiece or five for 20.
Epiphany's move to a new home is necessitated by the fact that its first season home is about to go out of existence. The three premiere season productions "Bus Stop," "The Tender Trap" and "Picnic" — were staged at the Marketplace, in space the management made available for community events. But now, with that area being converted into office space, the benefit shows are "to raise funds to establish a permanent community theater and multi-use facility," artistic director Paul Devine says.
"The theater company would like to thank the owners and staff of the Marketplace for their kindness in allowing the company to put on our performances as a gift to the community of St. John," Devine says. They not only provided a free venue but helped Epiphany get up and running by providing lighting, materials for constructing sets and administrative support, he says.
Special thanks go to Marketplace principal David Mugar, manager Ce Ce Burns, designer Glen Spear, and the Bertolino and Swan families "for their constant help and encouragement," he adds, "and to the staff, the performers and the people of the Virgin Islands for their support and dedication."
Epiphany has been functioning under the auspices of the not-for-profit Good for St. John corporation, and donations to the theater company may be made as a tax-free contribution to the Good for St. John Foundation, Devine says. Epiphany "will be soon applying for individual non-profit status as a Virgin Islands corporation," he adds, and will then seek federal tax-exempt 501(c)(3) status. After that, its board plans to pursue grant support from arts funding organizations.
Meantime, "regardless of the fact that no permanent facility is available at this time," he says, plans are proceeding for the season's first production, the venerable Broadway musical "The Fantasticks."
The show, which will be Epiphany's first musical, is to open on Nov. 22 and run for three weekends, through Dec. 8. The first casting call was Monday and a second is set for Aug. 29, at 6 p.m. in the theater at the Marketplace. Those wishing to audition should being sheet music for a song to perform; an accompanist will be provided. Casting needs are a young man and a young woman in their late teens, and five adults of either gender, Devine says.
Lisa Duncan will direct the production, with Elizabeth Putnam as choreographer and Danny Silber as musical director. For more information on auditioning or getting involved behind the scenes, call Duncan at 714-6087 or contact Devine by calling 714-2807 or e-mailing to Epiphany Theater.
Epiphany "is dedicated to providing quality theater to the community of St. John and also to providing an outlet for those persons interested in or with skills in the theater arts," Devine says. Anyone with the desire to get involved in theater is encouraged to try out for roles or to apply for production positions. Devine says the company staff includes individuals "with many years of production and performing who want to create a membership of persons interested in becoming part of the magic of theater."
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.
CORAL WORLD 8-DAY TURTLE FEST TO HONOR, INFORM
Aug. 20, 2002 – An eight-day Turtle Fest is taking place at Coral World Marine Park, on the east end of St. Thomas, from Aug. 25 to Sept. 2.
The festival, announced by curator Donna Nemeth, is designed to provide information to children and adults who can have a positive impact on local wildlife. Coral World will do this using a variety of creative approaches: crafts, storytelling, educational displays, contests and videos.
"All three sea turtle species that live in the Virgin Islands are on the Endangered Species List," Nemeth said in a release. The three species are leatherback, hawksbill, and green turtle.
The celebration begins Sunday, Aug. 25, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Magens Bay. Coral World experts will set up shop along the shore with information, displays and posters.
During the week, aquarists will make presentations to hotel guests at Sapphire Beach Resort, Wyndham Sugar Bay, Renaissance Grand Beach Resort, Ritz-Carlton and Marriott Frenchman's Reef.
Thursday, Aug. 29, a wine and cheese party will be held on the Blue Water Terrace at the park, at 7 p.m. Rafe Boulon, from the National Park Service on St. John, will provide a slide show about turtle hazards, habits and habitats. Coral World aquarists will be on hand for special night tours and to answer questions. The cost is $10 for nonmembers and $5 for members, and all receipts will go to the Turtle Rehabilitation Program. Please call 775-1555 ext. 247 to reserve.
But the major celebration happens over the Labor Day weekend. The Turtle Fest, chockfull of activities and opportunities, will take place each day from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Blue Water Terrace area. Even the retail shops, Currents and Go Fish, are in on it. Any product that has a turtle on it is 15 percent off. This means everything from plush toys to sundresses to pendants, earrings, prints, books, magnets and hand-painted birdhouses, is on sale.
Last year a turtle hatchling was rescued from its nest on Buck Island and brought to Coral World. Guests will get a chance to name him. And if you are in the mood for a new look, there'll be face painting, turtle style. There will be videos of the recent leatherback hatching on Coki Beach and the subsequent release of hatchlings into the sea. A traveling turtle cart will display turtle models, carapace, skull and bones, posters, leatherback egg shells, and some information materials to take home. Following the oral tradition, stories about animals passed down from generation to generation will be told.
In honor of the turtles of the Virgin Islands, Coral World general manager Trudie Prior is reducing the Sunday admission to $1 throughout September.
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 festival, announced by curator Donna Nemeth, is designed to provide information to children and adults who can have a positive impact on local wildlife. Coral World will do this using a variety of creative approaches: crafts, storytelling, educational displays, contests and videos.
"All three sea turtle species that live in the Virgin Islands are on the Endangered Species List," Nemeth said in a release. The three species are leatherback, hawksbill, and green turtle.
The celebration begins Sunday, Aug. 25, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Magens Bay. Coral World experts will set up shop along the shore with information, displays and posters.
During the week, aquarists will make presentations to hotel guests at Sapphire Beach Resort, Wyndham Sugar Bay, Renaissance Grand Beach Resort, Ritz-Carlton and Marriott Frenchman's Reef.
Thursday, Aug. 29, a wine and cheese party will be held on the Blue Water Terrace at the park, at 7 p.m. Rafe Boulon, from the National Park Service on St. John, will provide a slide show about turtle hazards, habits and habitats. Coral World aquarists will be on hand for special night tours and to answer questions. The cost is $10 for nonmembers and $5 for members, and all receipts will go to the Turtle Rehabilitation Program. Please call 775-1555 ext. 247 to reserve.
But the major celebration happens over the Labor Day weekend. The Turtle Fest, chockfull of activities and opportunities, will take place each day from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Blue Water Terrace area. Even the retail shops, Currents and Go Fish, are in on it. Any product that has a turtle on it is 15 percent off. This means everything from plush toys to sundresses to pendants, earrings, prints, books, magnets and hand-painted birdhouses, is on sale.
Last year a turtle hatchling was rescued from its nest on Buck Island and brought to Coral World. Guests will get a chance to name him. And if you are in the mood for a new look, there'll be face painting, turtle style. There will be videos of the recent leatherback hatching on Coki Beach and the subsequent release of hatchlings into the sea. A traveling turtle cart will display turtle models, carapace, skull and bones, posters, leatherback egg shells, and some information materials to take home. Following the oral tradition, stories about animals passed down from generation to generation will be told.
In honor of the turtles of the Virgin Islands, Coral World general manager Trudie Prior is reducing the Sunday admission to $1 throughout September.
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.
ADD BREAKFAST AT CORAL WORLD TO ST. THOMAS DAY
Aug. 22, 2002 – St. John residents and visitors have a new option for breakfast on St. Thomas' East End: Coral World, which serves lunch 365 days a year, is now adding continental breakfast to its menu.
So if you have a need to shop or see a dentist on St. Thomas and want to make a day of it, you could begin the day after the ferry ride with breakfast and some marine scenes at Coral World, and then go do your business.
According to Paul Willis, Coral World's food and beverage manager, the marine park will cater to early morning Coki beachgoers, as well as neighborhood residents, and hotel visitors. The breakfast menu includes Danish pastries, muffins, croissant sandwiches and bagels served with an assortment of jams and cream cheese, juice, coffee and teas.
Breakfast will be served daily starting at 8 a.m. at Coral World's Beach Café, located outside the park gates in the entrance arcade. "It is a quiet area overlooking the water and shaded by Royal palms and a giant Banyan tree," says Willis, and because of its location, patrons can enjoy breakfast without visiting the park, although, he adds, "we certainly hope they will choose to visit."
Lunch service at the Beach Café and inside the park at the Shark Bar starts as early as 9:30 a.m. Menu items include sandwiches, the popular grilled chicken wrap, burgers, and jumbo hot dogs. For lighter fare, patrons can try the Caesar salad, veggie burger, and pizza. Popcorn, ice cream, chips, and other snack foods are also available. Very soon the park will add French fries and chicken wings to its lunch menu.
To satisfy requests made by local visitors, taxi drivers and staff, Willis said they will offer local specialty dishes on a trial basis on Sundays in September.
Coral World's catering department can also help plan special functions, such as breakfast and lunch meetings, cocktail receptions and dinner parties. "We have a full range of menus from casual to formal, and are happy to tailor them," said Willis.
Guests are not the only ones at Coral World to find a good meal, Willis says, "even the fish here eat restaurant quality food!" To watch or participate in a fish feeding presentation, guests can visit on any day. Daily fish feedings start at 9:45 a.m. each morning and take place every 45 minutes until 4:00 pm.
Coral World is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The ticket booth closes at 4:00 p.m. For more information call 775-1555 ext. 247.
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.
So if you have a need to shop or see a dentist on St. Thomas and want to make a day of it, you could begin the day after the ferry ride with breakfast and some marine scenes at Coral World, and then go do your business.
According to Paul Willis, Coral World's food and beverage manager, the marine park will cater to early morning Coki beachgoers, as well as neighborhood residents, and hotel visitors. The breakfast menu includes Danish pastries, muffins, croissant sandwiches and bagels served with an assortment of jams and cream cheese, juice, coffee and teas.
Breakfast will be served daily starting at 8 a.m. at Coral World's Beach Café, located outside the park gates in the entrance arcade. "It is a quiet area overlooking the water and shaded by Royal palms and a giant Banyan tree," says Willis, and because of its location, patrons can enjoy breakfast without visiting the park, although, he adds, "we certainly hope they will choose to visit."
Lunch service at the Beach Café and inside the park at the Shark Bar starts as early as 9:30 a.m. Menu items include sandwiches, the popular grilled chicken wrap, burgers, and jumbo hot dogs. For lighter fare, patrons can try the Caesar salad, veggie burger, and pizza. Popcorn, ice cream, chips, and other snack foods are also available. Very soon the park will add French fries and chicken wings to its lunch menu.
To satisfy requests made by local visitors, taxi drivers and staff, Willis said they will offer local specialty dishes on a trial basis on Sundays in September.
Coral World's catering department can also help plan special functions, such as breakfast and lunch meetings, cocktail receptions and dinner parties. "We have a full range of menus from casual to formal, and are happy to tailor them," said Willis.
Guests are not the only ones at Coral World to find a good meal, Willis says, "even the fish here eat restaurant quality food!" To watch or participate in a fish feeding presentation, guests can visit on any day. Daily fish feedings start at 9:45 a.m. each morning and take place every 45 minutes until 4:00 pm.
Coral World is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The ticket booth closes at 4:00 p.m. For more information call 775-1555 ext. 247.
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.
CORAL WORLD ADDS BREAKFAST TO THE MENU
Aug. 22, 2002 – Residents and visitors have a new option for breakfast on St. Thomas' East End: Coral World, which serves lunch 365 days a year, is now adding continental breakfast to its menu.
According to Paul Willis, Coral World's food and beverage manager, the marine park will cater to early morning Coki beachgoers, as well as neighborhood residents, and hotel guests staying on the East End. The breakfast menu includes Danish pastries, muffins, croissant sandwiches and bagels served with an assortment of jams and cream cheese, juice, coffee and teas.
Breakfast will be served daily starting at 8 a.m. at Coral World's Beach Café, located outside the park gates in the entrance arcade. "It is a quiet area overlooking the water and shaded by Royal palms and a giant Banyan tree," says Willis, and because of its location, patrons can enjoy breakfast without visiting the park, although, he adds, "we certainly hope they will choose to visit."
Lunch service at the Beach Café and inside the park at the Shark Bar starts as early as 9:30 a.m. Menu items include sandwiches, the popular grilled chicken wrap, burgers, and jumbo hot dogs. For lighter fare, patrons can try the Caesar salad, veggie burger, and pizza. Popcorn, ice cream, chips, and other snack foods are also available. Very soon the park will add French fries and chicken wings to its lunch menu.
To satisfy requests made by local visitors, taxi drivers and staff, Willis said they will offer local specialty dishes on a trial basis on Sundays in September.
Coral World's catering department can also help plan special functions, such as breakfast and lunch meetings, cocktail receptions and dinner parties. "We have a full range of menus from casual to formal, and are happy to tailor them," said Willis.
Guests are not the only ones at Coral World to find a good meal, Willis says, "even the fish here eat restaurant quality food!" To watch or participate in a fish feeding presentation, guests can visit on any day. Daily fish feedings start at 9:45 a.m. each morning and take place every 45 minutes until 4:00 pm.
Coral World is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The ticket booth closes at 4:00 p.m. For more information call 775-1555 ext. 247.
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.
According to Paul Willis, Coral World's food and beverage manager, the marine park will cater to early morning Coki beachgoers, as well as neighborhood residents, and hotel guests staying on the East End. The breakfast menu includes Danish pastries, muffins, croissant sandwiches and bagels served with an assortment of jams and cream cheese, juice, coffee and teas.
Breakfast will be served daily starting at 8 a.m. at Coral World's Beach Café, located outside the park gates in the entrance arcade. "It is a quiet area overlooking the water and shaded by Royal palms and a giant Banyan tree," says Willis, and because of its location, patrons can enjoy breakfast without visiting the park, although, he adds, "we certainly hope they will choose to visit."
Lunch service at the Beach Café and inside the park at the Shark Bar starts as early as 9:30 a.m. Menu items include sandwiches, the popular grilled chicken wrap, burgers, and jumbo hot dogs. For lighter fare, patrons can try the Caesar salad, veggie burger, and pizza. Popcorn, ice cream, chips, and other snack foods are also available. Very soon the park will add French fries and chicken wings to its lunch menu.
To satisfy requests made by local visitors, taxi drivers and staff, Willis said they will offer local specialty dishes on a trial basis on Sundays in September.
Coral World's catering department can also help plan special functions, such as breakfast and lunch meetings, cocktail receptions and dinner parties. "We have a full range of menus from casual to formal, and are happy to tailor them," said Willis.
Guests are not the only ones at Coral World to find a good meal, Willis says, "even the fish here eat restaurant quality food!" To watch or participate in a fish feeding presentation, guests can visit on any day. Daily fish feedings start at 9:45 a.m. each morning and take place every 45 minutes until 4:00 pm.
Coral World is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The ticket booth closes at 4:00 p.m. For more information call 775-1555 ext. 247.
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.
