HOUSING AUTHORITY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEET
The V.I. Housing Authority Board of Commissioners will meet at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, June 27, at the Central Offices of the Authority in Aureo Diaz Heights, St. Croix.
HOUSING AUTHORITY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEET
The V.I. Housing Authority Board of Commissioners will meet at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, June 27, at the Central Offices of the Authority i Aureo Diaz Heights, St. Croix.
FAST-FERRY SERVICE BEING FIGURED OUT
June 25, 2001 – As the owners of the fast ferry that would provide transportation between St. Croix and St. Thomas wait to decide if they are going to offer part-time service starting next December, The Port Authority is investigating ways to fund year-round service.
Boston Harbor Cruises operations director Kevin Matthews told the Source recently that the company’s return to the territory for a five-month season starting in December isn’t "cast in stone." While the Port Authority board of directors recently lowered port fees for any inter-island ferry service -– mainly at the behest of Boston Harbor Cruises -– Matthews said leasing issues remain to be authorized by the board.
"The proposal the Port Authority put together [see previous story titled Fast ferry break on port head tax approved] does make it very enticing," Matthews said. He noted that the Port Authority board will be meeting in the next few weeks on the lease agreements. "We plan on actively pursuing coming back to the Virgin Islands, but it’s not cast in stone yet."
Meanwhile, the Port Authority is set to hire a consultant to conduct a study on the overall viability of inter-island ferries and ways to fund such services. Port Authority planner Darlan Brin said that while the agency doesn’t have plans to get into the ferry business, it is open to the idea of securing federal funding and then contracting with a company to operate ferry service.
However, a major source of federal transportation funding, the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21), doesn’t authorize money specifically for ferries or ferry terminals in the U.S. possessions.
"The V.I. could use its federal (TEA-21) funds for ferries and terminals, but that would reduce the allotment for highways," Brin said.
The U.S. Maritime Administration is also a source of funding, Brin said, but only for loan guarantees, not grants. Certain stipulations would apply, including that vessels would have to be built in the United States.
In most cases, a public entity must provide the vessels and terminal facilities. For the Virgin Islands, the Port Authority would contract the service to an independent operator.
"In some places, ferry services are just like a bus. It’s considered mass transit," Brin said. "We are going to be embarking on a feasibility study to get a consultant to determine what size vessel, the speed, and if there is a market.
"The matter is still on the front burner," he said.
The idea of a year-round ferry service also remains a priority for the owners of Seaborne Airlines, company president Maurice Kurg said. Seaborne sees Boston Harbor Cruises’ possible foray into the territory as a threatening competitor. Considering Seaborne’s experience moving large numbers of passengers and its harbor-side infrastructure, Kurg said, there is no reason it can’t get into the ferry business.
"We are taking a hard look at it," he said. "It’s definitely a competition issue with us."
Meanwhile, representatives of another fast-ferry company, St. Croix-based Crucian Express, told Port Authority board members a week ago of plans to purchase a Norwegian vessel capable of a speed of 40 knots, the same as Boston Harbor’s $10 million Salacia, with seating for 271.
Crucian Express wants to run this ferry year 'round, according to Jolene Wilson-Glah, company legal counsel. She said Crucian Express plans a September start-up with three round-trips a day. Start-up costs are estimated at $2 million, she said, to be raised through the sale of common stock.
Matthews said that as far as Boston Harbor Cruises is concerned, if the Port Authority board approves the leases sought by the company, it will be back in December.
"Based upon our past experience with the Port Authority, it has been very ferry friendly," he said.
Boston Harbor Cruises operations director Kevin Matthews told the Source recently that the company’s return to the territory for a five-month season starting in December isn’t "cast in stone." While the Port Authority board of directors recently lowered port fees for any inter-island ferry service -– mainly at the behest of Boston Harbor Cruises -– Matthews said leasing issues remain to be authorized by the board.
"The proposal the Port Authority put together [see previous story titled Fast ferry break on port head tax approved] does make it very enticing," Matthews said. He noted that the Port Authority board will be meeting in the next few weeks on the lease agreements. "We plan on actively pursuing coming back to the Virgin Islands, but it’s not cast in stone yet."
Meanwhile, the Port Authority is set to hire a consultant to conduct a study on the overall viability of inter-island ferries and ways to fund such services. Port Authority planner Darlan Brin said that while the agency doesn’t have plans to get into the ferry business, it is open to the idea of securing federal funding and then contracting with a company to operate ferry service.
However, a major source of federal transportation funding, the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21), doesn’t authorize money specifically for ferries or ferry terminals in the U.S. possessions.
"The V.I. could use its federal (TEA-21) funds for ferries and terminals, but that would reduce the allotment for highways," Brin said.
The U.S. Maritime Administration is also a source of funding, Brin said, but only for loan guarantees, not grants. Certain stipulations would apply, including that vessels would have to be built in the United States.
In most cases, a public entity must provide the vessels and terminal facilities. For the Virgin Islands, the Port Authority would contract the service to an independent operator.
"In some places, ferry services are just like a bus. It’s considered mass transit," Brin said. "We are going to be embarking on a feasibility study to get a consultant to determine what size vessel, the speed, and if there is a market.
"The matter is still on the front burner," he said.
The idea of a year-round ferry service also remains a priority for the owners of Seaborne Airlines, company president Maurice Kurg said. Seaborne sees Boston Harbor Cruises’ possible foray into the territory as a threatening competitor. Considering Seaborne’s experience moving large numbers of passengers and its harbor-side infrastructure, Kurg said, there is no reason it can’t get into the ferry business.
"We are taking a hard look at it," he said. "It’s definitely a competition issue with us."
Meanwhile, representatives of another fast-ferry company, St. Croix-based Crucian Express, told Port Authority board members a week ago of plans to purchase a Norwegian vessel capable of a speed of 40 knots, the same as Boston Harbor’s $10 million Salacia, with seating for 271.
Crucian Express wants to run this ferry year 'round, according to Jolene Wilson-Glah, company legal counsel. She said Crucian Express plans a September start-up with three round-trips a day. Start-up costs are estimated at $2 million, she said, to be raised through the sale of common stock.
Matthews said that as far as Boston Harbor Cruises is concerned, if the Port Authority board approves the leases sought by the company, it will be back in December.
"Based upon our past experience with the Port Authority, it has been very ferry friendly," he said.
ALL'S FAIR FOR VENDORS ON BUSY FESTIVAL DAY
June 24, 2001 – Cruz Bay Park was teeming with local vendors, residents and visitors as the St. John Festival Food Fair and Queen Coronation got under way Sunday afternoon.
From early in the morning, food and craft vendors busily set up stalls in the park and along the waterfront in preparation for the annual extravaganza. There were at least 30 craft exhibits.
Al Smith, owner of Big Al's Woodworks, said he was ready for business at 9 a.m. and he was looking forward to a good fair. Smith, a native St. Johnian, is widely known for his hand-crafted wood clocks and costume clock designs.
"It's good advertising, and I see a lot of local customers," John Baldwin said of his Frames of Mind display titled "Frame-Ology." Baldwin said the Cruz Bay frame shop and art gallery has been participating in the fair for five years.
Esther Frett, owner of House of Dolls in Cruz Bay, had her distinctive hand-made island dolls on display. "I meet new people, and my dolls are very popular," she said.
Theresa Davis came over from St. Croix to sell local fruits. "I come here every year, and every year it gets better," she said, promoting one of her mangoes as "sweet, sweet, sweet."
Deborah Quade, a Water Island resident and owner of Island Feet, was selling toe rings and hand-made Egyptian pillow cases. "This is my first time at the St. John Food Fair, and I'm loving it," she said, adding that her pillow covers were designed by an Egyptian artist, Saad Ali, who was featured in a recent New York Times article.
Award-wining cultural doll maker Gwendolyn Harley was beaming at her array of dolls representing aspects of Virgin Islands history and culture. "Each doll's costume is historically detailed, right down to the lace-edged pentalets and hand-woven straw hats," she said. "There are market ladies, quadrille dancers, bamboula dancers, Frenchmen and ladies among my collection." She also displayed the stuffed iguanas, mongooses, and men on donkeys that she makes.
Bryant Sells from Close Reach Import displayed woodworking craft designs made of teak, mahogany, pine, cedar and lignum vitae, also known because of its strength as iron wood.
Along the waterfront adjacent to the dock, about a dozen food vendors set out their wares to nourish and tantalize. Their offerings included such local delights as johnny cakes, pates, chicken legs, rice and peas, stuffing and, to wash it all down, maubi, ginger beer, bush tea, punch and, of course, rum and Coke.
At 1 p.m. the Queen Coronation began, with Alecia Wells as mistress of ceremonies. Suzette Kelly, the 2000 Festival queen, sang "The Star-Spangled Banner" and the "Virgin Islands March" a capella before passing the crown to Saturday night's show winner, Catikawa Richardson. The coronation of the festival princess will take place later, as the princess show was moved up to next Thursday because of illness of one of the competitors.
As part of the concurrent opening of the Food Fair, Agriculture Commissioner Henry Schuster encouraged the audience to continue growing — and eating — local foodstuffs.
This year the Food Fair is dedicated to Gwendolyn Douglas, a native of Tortola, who was honored by the St. John Festival Committee for her long involvement in the culinary arts. Now retired, Douglas was recognized for her many years of work at the Guy Benjamin and Julius E. Sprauve Schools and for her community involvement.
Harry Daniel, representing the Delegate Donna Christian Christensen, presented Douglas with a congressional resolution entered into the Congressional Record acknowledging her years of service on behalf of the people of the Virgin Islands.
Gov. Charles W. Turnbull welcomed festival participants and wished everyone a joyous event.
Following a music by the Love City Pan Dragons youth steelpan ensemble, Queen Catikawa joined the governor and Senate President Almando "Rocky" Liburd in cutting the ribbon officially opening the Food Fair.
Click here for the full St. John Festival schedule.
From early in the morning, food and craft vendors busily set up stalls in the park and along the waterfront in preparation for the annual extravaganza. There were at least 30 craft exhibits.
Al Smith, owner of Big Al's Woodworks, said he was ready for business at 9 a.m. and he was looking forward to a good fair. Smith, a native St. Johnian, is widely known for his hand-crafted wood clocks and costume clock designs.
"It's good advertising, and I see a lot of local customers," John Baldwin said of his Frames of Mind display titled "Frame-Ology." Baldwin said the Cruz Bay frame shop and art gallery has been participating in the fair for five years.
Esther Frett, owner of House of Dolls in Cruz Bay, had her distinctive hand-made island dolls on display. "I meet new people, and my dolls are very popular," she said.
Theresa Davis came over from St. Croix to sell local fruits. "I come here every year, and every year it gets better," she said, promoting one of her mangoes as "sweet, sweet, sweet."
Deborah Quade, a Water Island resident and owner of Island Feet, was selling toe rings and hand-made Egyptian pillow cases. "This is my first time at the St. John Food Fair, and I'm loving it," she said, adding that her pillow covers were designed by an Egyptian artist, Saad Ali, who was featured in a recent New York Times article.
Award-wining cultural doll maker Gwendolyn Harley was beaming at her array of dolls representing aspects of Virgin Islands history and culture. "Each doll's costume is historically detailed, right down to the lace-edged pentalets and hand-woven straw hats," she said. "There are market ladies, quadrille dancers, bamboula dancers, Frenchmen and ladies among my collection." She also displayed the stuffed iguanas, mongooses, and men on donkeys that she makes.
Bryant Sells from Close Reach Import displayed woodworking craft designs made of teak, mahogany, pine, cedar and lignum vitae, also known because of its strength as iron wood.
Along the waterfront adjacent to the dock, about a dozen food vendors set out their wares to nourish and tantalize. Their offerings included such local delights as johnny cakes, pates, chicken legs, rice and peas, stuffing and, to wash it all down, maubi, ginger beer, bush tea, punch and, of course, rum and Coke.
At 1 p.m. the Queen Coronation began, with Alecia Wells as mistress of ceremonies. Suzette Kelly, the 2000 Festival queen, sang "The Star-Spangled Banner" and the "Virgin Islands March" a capella before passing the crown to Saturday night's show winner, Catikawa Richardson. The coronation of the festival princess will take place later, as the princess show was moved up to next Thursday because of illness of one of the competitors.
As part of the concurrent opening of the Food Fair, Agriculture Commissioner Henry Schuster encouraged the audience to continue growing — and eating — local foodstuffs.
This year the Food Fair is dedicated to Gwendolyn Douglas, a native of Tortola, who was honored by the St. John Festival Committee for her long involvement in the culinary arts. Now retired, Douglas was recognized for her many years of work at the Guy Benjamin and Julius E. Sprauve Schools and for her community involvement.
Harry Daniel, representing the Delegate Donna Christian Christensen, presented Douglas with a congressional resolution entered into the Congressional Record acknowledging her years of service on behalf of the people of the Virgin Islands.
Gov. Charles W. Turnbull welcomed festival participants and wished everyone a joyous event.
Following a music by the Love City Pan Dragons youth steelpan ensemble, Queen Catikawa joined the governor and Senate President Almando "Rocky" Liburd in cutting the ribbon officially opening the Food Fair.
Click here for the full St. John Festival schedule.
RICHARDSON IS A WINNING LADY IN RED
June 24, 2001 – Dance, song, poetry, prose and prayer all played a part in Saturday night's St. John Festival Queen Show at the Winston Wells Ball Field. But nothing overshadowed the smiles of the three contestants vying for the title of Miss St. John.
After nearly three hours, Catikawa Richardson, a junior at Ivanna Eudora Kean High School, captured the crown and the right to rule over the 47th annual festival.
Richardson competed against Jennifer Dalmida, a 2001 graduate of Sts. Peter and
Paul High School, and Lisa Powell, a member of the Eudora Kean Class of 2001, in swim wear, international costume, talent, evening wear and question-and-answer segments.
Richardson made a strong impression with her initial presentation, enthusiastically telling the audience, "If you stand still, you will remain at that point forever."
The evening opened with an a capella rendition of "Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing" and the "Virgin Islands March" by Suzette Kelly, Miss St. John 2000; music by the Starlites band; and a unity dance by Kelly and the 2001 queen contestants.
The international presentation was an early pleaser to the audience of more than 500. Richardson, attired in an elaborate Indonesian costume of red and gold, performed a traditional Indonesian spiritual dance. Dalmida, dressed in Danish peasant clothing, pranced about the stage. Powell chose an exotic gold and turquoise ensemble from Peru, complete with synthetic braids which fell below her knees.
In the talent segment, Dalmida embraced the theme of "many cultures dancing to the same rhythms" with drumming and steelpan playing. Powell staged a complex story of salvaging Virgin Islands carnivals by remaining true to the island heritage. Her presentation, with a gigantic golden lamp as a backdrop and what appeared to be a free-floating genie, concluded with strobe lighting accompanying her carnival jump-up dance. With the theme "curing the ailment through the empowerment of youth," Richardson, in ballet slippers and fuchsia colored chiffon, performed an inspirational dance to music and voice-over.
For evening gowns, Dalmida appeared in silk green organza, Powell wore canary yellow silk studded with 5,000 princess-cut bugle beads, and Richardson, carrying a single rose, was the lady in a red with her one-shouldered valentine-hued dress.
During the question-and-answer segment, all three contestants were asked the same question, each while the others were sequestered in a "soundproof jeep" behind the stage. Responding to what positive changes they'd like to see in the islands' schools during the next five years, all three expressed the hope for more computers in classrooms.
Dalmida also said she'd opt for cultural education. Powell suggested more science laboratories, vocational classes and intern programs for mentoring. Richardson brought up teacher salaries. "We should pay teachers their money," she stressed, adding, "Education is the key to success."
The Miss Congeniality, Miss Popularity, Miss Intellect and Miss Talent awards went to Powell, who was adorned with a sash for each title. Dalmida received the Miss Photogenic title, while Richardson was named Miss Evening Wear, as well as Miss St. John.
Also making an appearance on the stage were the three contestants for the Mr. Emancipation competition, which has been rescheduled from June 28 to July 3. Click here for the full St. John Festival schedule.
After nearly three hours, Catikawa Richardson, a junior at Ivanna Eudora Kean High School, captured the crown and the right to rule over the 47th annual festival.
Richardson competed against Jennifer Dalmida, a 2001 graduate of Sts. Peter and
Paul High School, and Lisa Powell, a member of the Eudora Kean Class of 2001, in swim wear, international costume, talent, evening wear and question-and-answer segments.
Richardson made a strong impression with her initial presentation, enthusiastically telling the audience, "If you stand still, you will remain at that point forever."
The evening opened with an a capella rendition of "Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing" and the "Virgin Islands March" by Suzette Kelly, Miss St. John 2000; music by the Starlites band; and a unity dance by Kelly and the 2001 queen contestants.
The international presentation was an early pleaser to the audience of more than 500. Richardson, attired in an elaborate Indonesian costume of red and gold, performed a traditional Indonesian spiritual dance. Dalmida, dressed in Danish peasant clothing, pranced about the stage. Powell chose an exotic gold and turquoise ensemble from Peru, complete with synthetic braids which fell below her knees.
In the talent segment, Dalmida embraced the theme of "many cultures dancing to the same rhythms" with drumming and steelpan playing. Powell staged a complex story of salvaging Virgin Islands carnivals by remaining true to the island heritage. Her presentation, with a gigantic golden lamp as a backdrop and what appeared to be a free-floating genie, concluded with strobe lighting accompanying her carnival jump-up dance. With the theme "curing the ailment through the empowerment of youth," Richardson, in ballet slippers and fuchsia colored chiffon, performed an inspirational dance to music and voice-over.
For evening gowns, Dalmida appeared in silk green organza, Powell wore canary yellow silk studded with 5,000 princess-cut bugle beads, and Richardson, carrying a single rose, was the lady in a red with her one-shouldered valentine-hued dress.
During the question-and-answer segment, all three contestants were asked the same question, each while the others were sequestered in a "soundproof jeep" behind the stage. Responding to what positive changes they'd like to see in the islands' schools during the next five years, all three expressed the hope for more computers in classrooms.
Dalmida also said she'd opt for cultural education. Powell suggested more science laboratories, vocational classes and intern programs for mentoring. Richardson brought up teacher salaries. "We should pay teachers their money," she stressed, adding, "Education is the key to success."
The Miss Congeniality, Miss Popularity, Miss Intellect and Miss Talent awards went to Powell, who was adorned with a sash for each title. Dalmida received the Miss Photogenic title, while Richardson was named Miss Evening Wear, as well as Miss St. John.
Also making an appearance on the stage were the three contestants for the Mr. Emancipation competition, which has been rescheduled from June 28 to July 3. Click here for the full St. John Festival schedule.
EKHS'S RICHARDSON IS A WINNING LADY IN RED
June 24, 2001 – Dance, song, poetry, prose and prayer all played a part in Saturday night's St. John Festival Queen Show at the Winston Wells Ball Field. But nothing overshadowed the smiles of the three contestants vying for the title of Miss St. John.
After nearly three hours, Catikawa Richardson, a junior at Ivanna Eudora Kean High School, captured the crown and the right to rule over the 47th annual festival.
Richardson competed against Jennifer Dalmida, a 2001 graduate of Sts. Peter and
Paul High School, and Lisa Powell, a member of the Eudora Kean Class of 2001, in swim wear, international costume, talent, evening wear and question-and-answer segments.
Richardson made a strong impression with her initial presentation, enthusiastically telling the audience, "If you stand still, you will remain at that point forever."
The evening opened with an a capella rendition of "Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing" and the "Virgin Islands March" by Suzette Kelly, Miss St. John 2000; music by the Starlites band; and a unity dance by Kelly and the 2001 queen contestants.
The international presentation was an early pleaser to the audience of more than 500. Richardson, attired in an elaborate Indonesian costume of red and gold, performed a traditional Indonesian spiritual dance. Dalmida, dressed in Danish peasant clothing, pranced about the stage. Powell chose an exotic gold and turquoise ensemble from Peru, complete with synthetic braids which fell below her knees.
In the talent segment, Dalmida embraced the theme of "many cultures dancing to the same rhythms" with drumming and steelpan playing. Powell staged a complex story of salvaging Virgin Islands carnivals by remaining true to the island heritage. Her presentation, with a gigantic golden lamp as a backdrop and what appeared to be a free-floating genie, concluded with strobe lighting accompanying her carnival jump-up dance. With the theme "curing the ailment through the empowerment of youth," Richardson, in ballet slippers and fuchsia colored chiffon, performed an inspirational dance to music and voice-over.
For evening gowns, Dalmida appeared in silk green organza, Powell wore canary yellow silk studded with 5,000 princess-cut bugle beads, and Richardson, carrying a single rose, was the lady in a red with her one-shouldered valentine-hued dress.
During the question-and-answer segment, all three contestants were asked the same question, each while the others were sequestered in a "soundproof jeep" behind the stage. Responding to what positive changes they'd like to see in the islands' schools during the next five years, all three expressed the hope for more computers in classrooms.
Dalmida also said she'd opt for cultural education. Powell suggested more science laboratories, vocational classes and intern programs for mentoring. Richardson brought up teacher salaries. "We should pay teachers their money," she stressed, adding, "Education is the key to success."
The Miss Congeniality, Miss Popularity, Miss Intellect and Miss Talent awards went to Powell, who was adorned with a sash for each title. Dalmida received the Miss Photogenic title, while Richardson was named Miss Evening Wear, as well as Miss St. John.
Also making an appearance on the stage were the three contestants for the Mr. Emancipation competition, which has been rescheduled from June 28 to July 3. Click here for the full St. John Festival schedule.
After nearly three hours, Catikawa Richardson, a junior at Ivanna Eudora Kean High School, captured the crown and the right to rule over the 47th annual festival.
Richardson competed against Jennifer Dalmida, a 2001 graduate of Sts. Peter and
Paul High School, and Lisa Powell, a member of the Eudora Kean Class of 2001, in swim wear, international costume, talent, evening wear and question-and-answer segments.
Richardson made a strong impression with her initial presentation, enthusiastically telling the audience, "If you stand still, you will remain at that point forever."
The evening opened with an a capella rendition of "Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing" and the "Virgin Islands March" by Suzette Kelly, Miss St. John 2000; music by the Starlites band; and a unity dance by Kelly and the 2001 queen contestants.
The international presentation was an early pleaser to the audience of more than 500. Richardson, attired in an elaborate Indonesian costume of red and gold, performed a traditional Indonesian spiritual dance. Dalmida, dressed in Danish peasant clothing, pranced about the stage. Powell chose an exotic gold and turquoise ensemble from Peru, complete with synthetic braids which fell below her knees.
In the talent segment, Dalmida embraced the theme of "many cultures dancing to the same rhythms" with drumming and steelpan playing. Powell staged a complex story of salvaging Virgin Islands carnivals by remaining true to the island heritage. Her presentation, with a gigantic golden lamp as a backdrop and what appeared to be a free-floating genie, concluded with strobe lighting accompanying her carnival jump-up dance. With the theme "curing the ailment through the empowerment of youth," Richardson, in ballet slippers and fuchsia colored chiffon, performed an inspirational dance to music and voice-over.
For evening gowns, Dalmida appeared in silk green organza, Powell wore canary yellow silk studded with 5,000 princess-cut bugle beads, and Richardson, carrying a single rose, was the lady in a red with her one-shouldered valentine-hued dress.
During the question-and-answer segment, all three contestants were asked the same question, each while the others were sequestered in a "soundproof jeep" behind the stage. Responding to what positive changes they'd like to see in the islands' schools during the next five years, all three expressed the hope for more computers in classrooms.
Dalmida also said she'd opt for cultural education. Powell suggested more science laboratories, vocational classes and intern programs for mentoring. Richardson brought up teacher salaries. "We should pay teachers their money," she stressed, adding, "Education is the key to success."
The Miss Congeniality, Miss Popularity, Miss Intellect and Miss Talent awards went to Powell, who was adorned with a sash for each title. Dalmida received the Miss Photogenic title, while Richardson was named Miss Evening Wear, as well as Miss St. John.
Also making an appearance on the stage were the three contestants for the Mr. Emancipation competition, which has been rescheduled from June 28 to July 3. Click here for the full St. John Festival schedule.
FRIENDSHIP DAY IS DAMP BUT WELL-RECEIVED
June 24, 2001- Showers briefly interrupted but failed to spoil the annual Friendship Day ceremonies hosted this year by the U.S. Virgin Islands government and attended by a British Virgin Islands delegation of 60 visiting dignitaries.
A crowd of over 250 viewed the public ceremony and entertainment in Emancipation Garden Saturday morning. The 73rd Army National Guard Band played the anthems of both states, and BVI Gov. Francis J. Savage joined Gov. Charles W. Turnbull in reviewing a National Guard honor guard formation.
"The purpose of these visits is to strengthen yet further the excellent relations which exist between the BVI and the USVI," Savage said, "and to build more bridges between our two communities."
Turnbull praised the BVI's ongoing hurricane awareness and pledged, "The United States Virgin Islands Emergency Management Agency, VITEMA, will always be available in times of disaster and other emergencies to help our friends and neighbors in the British Virgin Islands in all ways possible."
However, Sen. Almando "Rocky" Liburd, president of the 24th Legislature, alluded to areas of disagreement between the neighboring states. "We are going to have a lot of discussions today," he told the dignitaries, "and I hope that out of that the next time we come together, we'll be a little better off."
The BVI deputy chief minister, J. Alvin Christopher, offered apologies from Chief Minister Ralph O'Neal, who is in Great Britain, and expressed gratitude for the "medical services" available in the USVI to BVI citizens. Among issues of mutual interest to both governments, he cited "our shared fight against drug trafficking and money laundering."
A heartfelt spiritual sung by Lee' Chyler Jean Baptiste, a Class of 2001 graduate of Ivanna Eudora Kean High School, drew enthusiastic applause. Lockhart Elementary School students who presented quadrille dancing in traditional costumes and a pantomimed musical skit were also crowd pleasers.
Other officials at the ceremony included Lt. Gov. Gerard Luz James II; his BVI counterpart, Deputy Gov. M. Elton Georges; and Sens. Lorraine Berry, Carlton Dowe and Norma Samuel-Pickard.
The National Guard band provided music to conclude the program as dignitaries from both governments departed for a luncheon at the Marriott Frenchman's Reef Beach Resort.
A crowd of over 250 viewed the public ceremony and entertainment in Emancipation Garden Saturday morning. The 73rd Army National Guard Band played the anthems of both states, and BVI Gov. Francis J. Savage joined Gov. Charles W. Turnbull in reviewing a National Guard honor guard formation.
"The purpose of these visits is to strengthen yet further the excellent relations which exist between the BVI and the USVI," Savage said, "and to build more bridges between our two communities."
Turnbull praised the BVI's ongoing hurricane awareness and pledged, "The United States Virgin Islands Emergency Management Agency, VITEMA, will always be available in times of disaster and other emergencies to help our friends and neighbors in the British Virgin Islands in all ways possible."
However, Sen. Almando "Rocky" Liburd, president of the 24th Legislature, alluded to areas of disagreement between the neighboring states. "We are going to have a lot of discussions today," he told the dignitaries, "and I hope that out of that the next time we come together, we'll be a little better off."
The BVI deputy chief minister, J. Alvin Christopher, offered apologies from Chief Minister Ralph O'Neal, who is in Great Britain, and expressed gratitude for the "medical services" available in the USVI to BVI citizens. Among issues of mutual interest to both governments, he cited "our shared fight against drug trafficking and money laundering."
A heartfelt spiritual sung by Lee' Chyler Jean Baptiste, a Class of 2001 graduate of Ivanna Eudora Kean High School, drew enthusiastic applause. Lockhart Elementary School students who presented quadrille dancing in traditional costumes and a pantomimed musical skit were also crowd pleasers.
Other officials at the ceremony included Lt. Gov. Gerard Luz James II; his BVI counterpart, Deputy Gov. M. Elton Georges; and Sens. Lorraine Berry, Carlton Dowe and Norma Samuel-Pickard.
The National Guard band provided music to conclude the program as dignitaries from both governments departed for a luncheon at the Marriott Frenchman's Reef Beach Resort.
LAWYER SAYS PERCEPTION COMMENT MISPERCEIVED
June 24, 2001 – Tom Bolt, president-elect of the V.I. Bar Association, over the weekend defended remarks he had made at a Friday judicial conference that sparked a sharp rejoinder at the forum from the territory's top judge.
Speaking in a question-and-answer session at the 2001 Virgin Islands Judicial Conference at the Marriott Frenchman's Reef Beach Resort, Bolt had said he believes there is a public perception that persons "born here" have an edge over those who are not born here, and that this could affect public trust in the courts.
Territorial Court Presiding Judge Maria Cabret openly took Bolt to task at the conference for his remark.
Bolt told the Source Saturday that Cabret mistakenly thought that "I believed that." In fact, he said, "Nothing could be further from the truth. I was saying we may have a problem with what the public perceives."
Bolt was adamant about his own beliefs. "I will be the first to defend the judiciary, as a member of the bar, from accusations like that," he said. As president of the bar association, he added, he will "zealously defend the judiciary and its independence."
The theme of the Friday conference was "Continuing the Quest for Excellence: Public Trust and Confidence in the Courts." The program featured a panel of local legal experts including U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeffrey Resnick and Territorial Court Judge Rhys Hodge, according to a published report in The Avis.
Wilma A. Lewis, former U.S. attorney for the District of Colombia and a native Virgin Islander, was the keynote speaker. According to The Avis, Lewis told the group, "The image that is portrayed to the public of our legal system is as much defined by our actions as everything else."
She chastised certain members of the legal profession for not following appropriate standards, saying, "I think it is possible to be aggressive without being nasty. It is possible to be effective without being a pit bull."
The judiciary's own perceptions of the news media made for animated discussion during the panel discussion, according the newspaper. Harold Willocks, chief public defender, said media representatives often don't have a grasp of issues surrounding cases they report on. And Resnick suggested that closing court proceedings to the media and the public may in fact create a public perception of "wrongdoing" going on behind closed doors.
Maria Tankenson Hodge, like Bolt a St. Thomas attorney in private practice, suggested the development of a non-partisan forum to help explain the judicial process to the media, The Avis said.
Territorial Court Judge Ishmael Meyers as well as Cabret took issue with Bolt's remarks, for which Bolt offered an apology on Friday at the conference. Bolt said Saturday the apology was for the misperception of the intent of his remarks.
Bolt represented the V.I. Bar Association in the American Bar Association's House of Delegates from 1989 until last summer, when he began a three-year term as an at-large delegate, the first V.I. lawyer elected by the general ABA membership to national office. He is active in the 400,000-member association's Individual Rights and Responsibilities Section and is a member of its Committee on Continuing Legal Education.
He told the Source he plans to propose that the local bar association sponsor a summit on the judiciary system that will feature a citizens' forum aimed at making the judiciary more accessible to the public. "We would teach aspects of law and have a judicial branch review," he said, "and we could prepare a press information package."
There have been cases locally where a judgment has been held up by a pending motion for as long as seven years, he said, and probate matters involving small estates can take years to adjudicate. It is no wonder the public sometimes wonders what goes on in the judicial system, he said.
Speaking in a question-and-answer session at the 2001 Virgin Islands Judicial Conference at the Marriott Frenchman's Reef Beach Resort, Bolt had said he believes there is a public perception that persons "born here" have an edge over those who are not born here, and that this could affect public trust in the courts.
Territorial Court Presiding Judge Maria Cabret openly took Bolt to task at the conference for his remark.
Bolt told the Source Saturday that Cabret mistakenly thought that "I believed that." In fact, he said, "Nothing could be further from the truth. I was saying we may have a problem with what the public perceives."
Bolt was adamant about his own beliefs. "I will be the first to defend the judiciary, as a member of the bar, from accusations like that," he said. As president of the bar association, he added, he will "zealously defend the judiciary and its independence."
The theme of the Friday conference was "Continuing the Quest for Excellence: Public Trust and Confidence in the Courts." The program featured a panel of local legal experts including U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeffrey Resnick and Territorial Court Judge Rhys Hodge, according to a published report in The Avis.
Wilma A. Lewis, former U.S. attorney for the District of Colombia and a native Virgin Islander, was the keynote speaker. According to The Avis, Lewis told the group, "The image that is portrayed to the public of our legal system is as much defined by our actions as everything else."
She chastised certain members of the legal profession for not following appropriate standards, saying, "I think it is possible to be aggressive without being nasty. It is possible to be effective without being a pit bull."
The judiciary's own perceptions of the news media made for animated discussion during the panel discussion, according the newspaper. Harold Willocks, chief public defender, said media representatives often don't have a grasp of issues surrounding cases they report on. And Resnick suggested that closing court proceedings to the media and the public may in fact create a public perception of "wrongdoing" going on behind closed doors.
Maria Tankenson Hodge, like Bolt a St. Thomas attorney in private practice, suggested the development of a non-partisan forum to help explain the judicial process to the media, The Avis said.
Territorial Court Judge Ishmael Meyers as well as Cabret took issue with Bolt's remarks, for which Bolt offered an apology on Friday at the conference. Bolt said Saturday the apology was for the misperception of the intent of his remarks.
Bolt represented the V.I. Bar Association in the American Bar Association's House of Delegates from 1989 until last summer, when he began a three-year term as an at-large delegate, the first V.I. lawyer elected by the general ABA membership to national office. He is active in the 400,000-member association's Individual Rights and Responsibilities Section and is a member of its Committee on Continuing Legal Education.
He told the Source he plans to propose that the local bar association sponsor a summit on the judiciary system that will feature a citizens' forum aimed at making the judiciary more accessible to the public. "We would teach aspects of law and have a judicial branch review," he said, "and we could prepare a press information package."
There have been cases locally where a judgment has been held up by a pending motion for as long as seven years, he said, and probate matters involving small estates can take years to adjudicate. It is no wonder the public sometimes wonders what goes on in the judicial system, he said.
CHILDREN'S VILLAGE SET FOR A 5-NIGHT RUN
June 22, 2001 – The St. John Festival Children's Village opens for business — well, no, for fun and games — on Friday in Cruz Bay and will remain in operation nightly through July 3 from 6 to 10 p.m.
This year's mini-village promises to be "one of our best," Westra Bea Miller, executive assistant of the sponsoring St. John Community Foundation, says. "We'll have new games plus the classics, lots of prizes, fresh popcorn and cotton candy, and face painters. Where else but St. John can you enjoy the breezes off the harbor while your kids play balloon darts or our new game Frog Bog?"
The foundation has been operating the young people's special part of the festival since its start a decade ago. Pine Peace School and other entities have also been affiliated with it, Miller says, but this year it's strictly a project of the foundation — and its volunteers.
The idea behind the Children's Village is to provide "laid-back fun for youngsters of all ages in an alcohol- and drug-free environment," she says. "It's a safe and fun environment for families to spend time together while enjoying the carnival season and the Fourth of July."
Also, she notes, "We know that children often want independence and the freedom to hang out with their friends." However, she adds, "we appreciate it if children younger than 8 years old do not come without a parent or other responsible adult in tow." And if the kids don't assume that responsibility, their elders need to do so.
The project is aimed primarily at children 4 to 13 years of age. Besides balloon darts, the "classic" games typically include mini-basketball, ring toss, and a Strong Man machine. "This year we will also have a new Caribbean-theme bullseye and a soccer-related challenge for the older kids," Miller says. And, of course, Frog Bog, about which she is not about to share any details in advance, other than to say it's fun.
While the focus has always been on children," she says, there are two attractions strictly for adults this year — ongoing bingo games and a raffle of prizes including stays at the Marriott Frenchman's Reef and Point Pleasant resorts and meals at local restaurants. Bingo also was offered last year, she says, and it and the raffle "are the manifestation of our attempt to make this more of a fundraiser for the foundation than it has been in the past."
Children's Village proceeds will support the foundation's operations and its program of awarding mini-grants throughout the year to fund community-oriented projects of local youth groups and organizations.
Tickets for children's games are 50 cents. Winners get tokens which can be collected and then redeemed for "a range of cool toys and prizes," as Miller puts it. Sodas, cotton candy, popcorn and local foods will be available for purchase. Raffle tickets, available only to adults, are $5 apiece or five for $20.
"We are looking forward to seeing the entire community there," Miller says. "If you are able to help by volunteering, we would love you even more." Helpers are needed primarily to operate the games each night, she says. But there's a particular need for face-painters willing to spend an evening "bringing the fantasies of the children to life on cheeks, hands and other body parts."
Prospective volunteers and anyone else with questions can contact Miller by telephoning 693-9410 or by e-mailing to the St. John Community Foundation.
This year's mini-village promises to be "one of our best," Westra Bea Miller, executive assistant of the sponsoring St. John Community Foundation, says. "We'll have new games plus the classics, lots of prizes, fresh popcorn and cotton candy, and face painters. Where else but St. John can you enjoy the breezes off the harbor while your kids play balloon darts or our new game Frog Bog?"
The foundation has been operating the young people's special part of the festival since its start a decade ago. Pine Peace School and other entities have also been affiliated with it, Miller says, but this year it's strictly a project of the foundation — and its volunteers.
The idea behind the Children's Village is to provide "laid-back fun for youngsters of all ages in an alcohol- and drug-free environment," she says. "It's a safe and fun environment for families to spend time together while enjoying the carnival season and the Fourth of July."
Also, she notes, "We know that children often want independence and the freedom to hang out with their friends." However, she adds, "we appreciate it if children younger than 8 years old do not come without a parent or other responsible adult in tow." And if the kids don't assume that responsibility, their elders need to do so.
The project is aimed primarily at children 4 to 13 years of age. Besides balloon darts, the "classic" games typically include mini-basketball, ring toss, and a Strong Man machine. "This year we will also have a new Caribbean-theme bullseye and a soccer-related challenge for the older kids," Miller says. And, of course, Frog Bog, about which she is not about to share any details in advance, other than to say it's fun.
While the focus has always been on children," she says, there are two attractions strictly for adults this year — ongoing bingo games and a raffle of prizes including stays at the Marriott Frenchman's Reef and Point Pleasant resorts and meals at local restaurants. Bingo also was offered last year, she says, and it and the raffle "are the manifestation of our attempt to make this more of a fundraiser for the foundation than it has been in the past."
Children's Village proceeds will support the foundation's operations and its program of awarding mini-grants throughout the year to fund community-oriented projects of local youth groups and organizations.
Tickets for children's games are 50 cents. Winners get tokens which can be collected and then redeemed for "a range of cool toys and prizes," as Miller puts it. Sodas, cotton candy, popcorn and local foods will be available for purchase. Raffle tickets, available only to adults, are $5 apiece or five for $20.
"We are looking forward to seeing the entire community there," Miller says. "If you are able to help by volunteering, we would love you even more." Helpers are needed primarily to operate the games each night, she says. But there's a particular need for face-painters willing to spend an evening "bringing the fantasies of the children to life on cheeks, hands and other body parts."
Prospective volunteers and anyone else with questions can contact Miller by telephoning 693-9410 or by e-mailing to the St. John Community Foundation.
'SCHOOL'S OUT' IS A PLAY IN SEARCH OF ACTORS
June 24, 2001 – School's out for the summer, but "School's Out" is about to go into rehearsal. It's a play scheduled for performance the first three weekends of August at the University of the Virgin Islands.
Tryouts are Monday and Tuesday evening starting at 6 p.m. for the "fictional comedy based on a corrupt Caribbean educational system," as Reichhold Center for the Arts publicity describes the work by Jamaican playwright Trevor Rhone.
The play is being presented by the Reichhold's Caribbean Repertory Theater.
Casting is for six male actors who can portray characters from 24 to 64 years of age and one female actor who can play in the age range of 3- to 60. Auditions will be held in the theater's lower level lobby.
"School's Out" is the lone production on the repertory theater schedule this summer. A second play, which was to have been performed in June, was canceled. Performances are scheduled in the UVI Little Theater on Aug. 3-6, 10-13 and 17-20.
The play will be directed by Alvin Hippolyte, a St. Lucia native who made his own debut on the Reichhold stage last September in the two-character play "Smile, Natives, Smile" by Reichhold director David Edgecombe. Hippolyte, who teaches theater courses at Medgar Evers College in Brooklyn, N.Y., portrayed a fictional UVI professor who engineered his own entanglement in a sexual harassment suit so as to win notoriety as a means of getting his writing published.
Hippolyte is already on St. Thomas and will be present for the auditions Monday and Tuesday. Reichhold publicist Dionne Carty said Hippolyte will set the rehearsal schedule, but those auditioning should be prepared to commit to the time needed for production and the 12 scheduled performances.
Rhone is best known as the author of "Smile Orange," a 1980s comedy/drama about the impact of tourism on a Jamaican community that was made into a successful film. Another of his works is "Two Can Play."
For further information, call Denise Humphrey at 693-1550.
Tryouts are Monday and Tuesday evening starting at 6 p.m. for the "fictional comedy based on a corrupt Caribbean educational system," as Reichhold Center for the Arts publicity describes the work by Jamaican playwright Trevor Rhone.
The play is being presented by the Reichhold's Caribbean Repertory Theater.
Casting is for six male actors who can portray characters from 24 to 64 years of age and one female actor who can play in the age range of 3- to 60. Auditions will be held in the theater's lower level lobby.
"School's Out" is the lone production on the repertory theater schedule this summer. A second play, which was to have been performed in June, was canceled. Performances are scheduled in the UVI Little Theater on Aug. 3-6, 10-13 and 17-20.
The play will be directed by Alvin Hippolyte, a St. Lucia native who made his own debut on the Reichhold stage last September in the two-character play "Smile, Natives, Smile" by Reichhold director David Edgecombe. Hippolyte, who teaches theater courses at Medgar Evers College in Brooklyn, N.Y., portrayed a fictional UVI professor who engineered his own entanglement in a sexual harassment suit so as to win notoriety as a means of getting his writing published.
Hippolyte is already on St. Thomas and will be present for the auditions Monday and Tuesday. Reichhold publicist Dionne Carty said Hippolyte will set the rehearsal schedule, but those auditioning should be prepared to commit to the time needed for production and the 12 scheduled performances.
Rhone is best known as the author of "Smile Orange," a 1980s comedy/drama about the impact of tourism on a Jamaican community that was made into a successful film. Another of his works is "Two Can Play."
For further information, call Denise Humphrey at 693-1550.
