St. Thomas to host its 28th annual USVI Open/Atlantic Blue Marlin Tournament
The 28th annual staging of the USVI Open/Atlantic Blue Marlin Tournament, one of the most competitive saltwater fishing events in the world, will be held off the waters of St. Thomas on Aug. 11-16. The event consists of three competitions — an angler tournament, a crew tournament and a boat tournament, operated simultaneously. Each competition offers prize money, and the angler who catches the tournament's first 1,000-pound Atlantic Blue Marlin wins a million dollars. Proceeds benefit the Virgin Islands Council Boy Scouts of America. For more details, call (888) 2FISHVI (234-7484) or (340) 775-9500. Visit the tournament web site at www.usvi.net/bsa.
St. Croix Environmental Association purchases key habitat with anonymously donated funds
An anonymous benefactor with a love of birds has made it possible for the St. Croix Environmental Association to purchase 60 acres of land at Southgate on the island's east end. The newly named Southgate Pond Nature Preserve was acquired with a donation of $822,697. The move means a prime nesting habitat for birds and endangered sea turtles will be protected forever from commercial development. The property encompasses the eastern third of the salt pond east to Chenay Bay Beach Resort and the land between Green Cay Beach and East End Road. Along with the key sea turtle nesting beach, a dominant feature of the property is the salt pond, which is owned by the V.I. government. Southgate pond is one of the most important ponds in the USVI for local and migrating birds. Some 96 species have been recorded at the site, including 26 that are considered threatened or endangered in the Virgin Islands.
The Westin Resort St. John offers 'Sizzling Summer Sale' and 'Summer Jammers Camp'
Vacationers wanting to stay in one of the territory's most upscale and luxurious properties at unprecedented savings should take advantage of the "Sizzling Summer Sale" promotion being offered by the Westin Resort St. John. Available for travel now through Oct. 31, rates for the "Sizzling Summer Sale" start at $99 per room/per night (double occupancy). This rate represents 67 percent off the regular summer rate of $299 per night. To make the vacation experience even more fun for children, the resort is continuing its "Summer Jammers Camp." From mid-June through mid-August, children will enjoy arts and crafts activities, treasure hunts, seaside hiking adventures, exciting field trips and visits from local artisans and island "celebrities."
Families staying at the resort will also appreciate the "Kids Eat Free" special. Now through Dec. 22, kids 12 years of age and under eat free at the resort when accompanied by an adult. As always, children 18 years of age and younger stay free of charge when staying in their parents' room, and families have the option of getting a second room for children at a 50-percent-off savings. More information about these offers is available by calling the Westin Resort St. John at (340) 693-8000, (800) WESTIN-1, or visiting the Web site at www.westin.com.
St. Thomas's Grand Hotel will receive facelift and new name
The historic Grand Hotel building on St. Thomas will receive a $2 million facelift that will transform the property into a premier tourist destination, retail shopping and business area. The renovated mixed-use building complex will be re-named the Grand Galleria and is expected to open in November. Two new features of the planned Grand Galleria are a glass skylight atrium and an indoor walkway. The Grand Hotel renovation is the second phase of the entire $4 million Grand Hotel block project. Opened in 1840, the historic, three-story building housed the first overseas visitors to the island for almost 60 years. For more information, contact Lockhart Properties at (340) 776-1900.
USVI hotels announce personnel changes
Marriott International has appointed Jayne Hillner general manager of Marriott's Frenchman's Reef and Morning Star Beach Resorts on St. Thomas. Hillner is the first woman in the company to hold a general manager position in the Caribbean and Latin American region. Marriott International also recently appointed David Yamada general manager at the Renaissance Grand Beach Resort on St. Thomas. Yamada will oversee all aspects of operation at the resort. Both appointments are effective immediately.
MARTIN P.R. TELLS THE WORLD ABOUT THE V.I.
Travel media invited to visit USVI at Travel Media Showcase
All travel journalists are encouraged to visit the U.S. Virgin Islands' booth at Travel Media Showcase at the Atlantic City Convention Center on June 11-14. Please look for the USVI booth, No. 311. A representative will be glad to speak with you about upcoming press trips and story ideas.
New brochures and road signs guide travelers on St. Croix's Heritage Trail
For visitors wanting to go on a historical and cultural adventure, the newly created St. Croix Heritage Trail is the perfect excursion. Recently named one of 50 nationwide Millennium Legacy Trails, the 72-mile driving tour presents many of the island's well-known and hidden treasures. A colorful, fact-filled brochure, including maps, guides travelers between the trail's historical sites and attractions. Recently erected brown and white road signs with a sugar mill symbol point the way to historic sites. Visitors can explore the island on a self-guided driving tour which features fascinating historic attractions, cultural landmarks, scenic overlooks and restored points of interest. Throughout the trail are also opportunities to learn about the island's oral traditions, music, food and agricultural history. Please note: Call the St. Croix Landmarks Society at (340) 772-0598 for additional information or to request a brochure.
St. Thomas's Bolongo Bay offers 'Travel Agent Appreciation Rates'
Travel agents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the U.S. Virgin Islands and Bolongo Bay Beach Club & Villas on St. Thomas by taking advantage of the resort's "Travel Agent Appreciation Rates." Valid for bookings and travel now through Dec. 20, the rates are $75 for the European Plan, $99 for the Continental Plan and $250 for the all-inclusive program. All rates are per room, per night and do not include tax and service charges (except for the all-inclusive option). Agents may bring a guest to share the room. More details about these rates are available by calling (340) 775-1800 or (800) 524-4746. Visit the resort on the Internet at www.bolongo.com.
St. Thomas to host its 28th annual USVI Open/Atlantic Blue Marlin Tournament
The 28th annual staging of the USVI Open/Atlantic Blue Marlin Tournament, one of the most competitive saltwater fishing events in the world, will be held off the waters of St. Thomas on Aug. 11-16. The event consists of three competitions — an angler tournament, a crew tournament and a boat tournament, operated simultaneously. Each competition offers prize money, and the angler who catches the tournament's first 1,000-pound Atlantic Blue Marlin wins a million dollars. Proceeds benefit the Virgin Islands Council Boy Scouts of America. For more details, call (888) 2FISHVI (234-7484) or (340) 775-9500. Visit the tournament web site at www.usvi.net/bsa.
St. Croix Environmental Association purchases key habitat with anonymously donated funds
An anonymous benefactor with a love of birds has made it possible for the St. Croix Environmental Association to purchase 60 acres of land at Southgate on the island's east end. The newly named Southgate Pond Nature Preserve was acquired with a donation of $822,697. The move means a prime nesting habitat for birds and endangered sea turtles will be protected forever from commercial development. The property encompasses the eastern third of the salt pond east to Chenay Bay Beach Resort and the land between Green Cay Beach and East End Road. Along with the key sea turtle nesting beach, a dominant feature of the property is the salt pond, which is owned by the V.I. government. Southgate pond is one of the most important ponds in the USVI for local and migrating birds. Some 96 species have been recorded at the site, including 26 that are considered threatened or endangered in the Virgin Islands.
The Westin Resort St. John offers 'Sizzling Summer Sale' and 'Summer Jammers Camp'
Vacationers wanting to stay in one of the territory's most upscale and luxurious properties at unprecedented savings should take advantage of the "Sizzling Summer Sale" promotion being offered by the Westin Resort St. John. Available for travel now through Oct. 31, rates for the "Sizzling Summer Sale" start at $99 per room/per night (double occupancy). This rate represents 67 percent off the regular summer rate of $299 per night. To make the vacation experience even more fun for children, the resort is continuing its "Summer Jammers Camp." From mid-June through mid-August, children will enjoy arts and crafts activities, treasure hunts, seaside hiking adventures, exciting field trips and visits from local artisans and island "celebrities."
Families staying at the resort will also appreciate the "Kids Eat Free" special. Now through Dec. 22, kids 12 years of age and under eat free at the resort when accompanied by an adult. As always, children 18 years of age and younger stay free of charge when staying in their parents' room, and families have the option of getting a second room for children at a 50-percent-off savings. More information about these offers is available by calling the Westin Resort St. John at (340) 693-8000, (800) WESTIN-1, or visiting the Web site at www.westin.com.
St. Thomas's Grand Hotel will receive facelift and new name
The historic Grand Hotel building on St. Thomas will receive a $2 million facelift that will transform the property into a premier tourist destination, retail shopping and business area. The renovated mixed-use building complex will be re-named the Grand Galleria and is expected to open in November. Two new features of the planned Grand Galleria are a glass skylight atrium and an indoor walkway. The Grand Hotel renovation is the second phase of the entire $4 million Grand Hotel block project. Opened in 1840, the historic, three-story building housed the first overseas visitors to the island for almost 60 years. For more information, contact Lockhart Properties at (340) 776-1900.
USVI hotels announce personnel changes
Marriott International has appointed Jayne Hillner general manager of Marriott's Frenchman's Reef and Morning Star Beach Resorts on St. Thomas. Hillner is the first woman in the company to hold a general manager position in the Caribbean and Latin American region. Marriott International also recently appointed David Yamada general manager at the Renaissance Grand Beach Resort on St. Thomas. Yamada will oversee all aspects of operation at the resort. Both appointments are effective immediately.
All travel journalists are encouraged to visit the U.S. Virgin Islands' booth at Travel Media Showcase at the Atlantic City Convention Center on June 11-14. Please look for the USVI booth, No. 311. A representative will be glad to speak with you about upcoming press trips and story ideas.
New brochures and road signs guide travelers on St. Croix's Heritage Trail
For visitors wanting to go on a historical and cultural adventure, the newly created St. Croix Heritage Trail is the perfect excursion. Recently named one of 50 nationwide Millennium Legacy Trails, the 72-mile driving tour presents many of the island's well-known and hidden treasures. A colorful, fact-filled brochure, including maps, guides travelers between the trail's historical sites and attractions. Recently erected brown and white road signs with a sugar mill symbol point the way to historic sites. Visitors can explore the island on a self-guided driving tour which features fascinating historic attractions, cultural landmarks, scenic overlooks and restored points of interest. Throughout the trail are also opportunities to learn about the island's oral traditions, music, food and agricultural history. Please note: Call the St. Croix Landmarks Society at (340) 772-0598 for additional information or to request a brochure.
St. Thomas's Bolongo Bay offers 'Travel Agent Appreciation Rates'
Travel agents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the U.S. Virgin Islands and Bolongo Bay Beach Club & Villas on St. Thomas by taking advantage of the resort's "Travel Agent Appreciation Rates." Valid for bookings and travel now through Dec. 20, the rates are $75 for the European Plan, $99 for the Continental Plan and $250 for the all-inclusive program. All rates are per room, per night and do not include tax and service charges (except for the all-inclusive option). Agents may bring a guest to share the room. More details about these rates are available by calling (340) 775-1800 or (800) 524-4746. Visit the resort on the Internet at www.bolongo.com.
St. Thomas to host its 28th annual USVI Open/Atlantic Blue Marlin Tournament
The 28th annual staging of the USVI Open/Atlantic Blue Marlin Tournament, one of the most competitive saltwater fishing events in the world, will be held off the waters of St. Thomas on Aug. 11-16. The event consists of three competitions — an angler tournament, a crew tournament and a boat tournament, operated simultaneously. Each competition offers prize money, and the angler who catches the tournament's first 1,000-pound Atlantic Blue Marlin wins a million dollars. Proceeds benefit the Virgin Islands Council Boy Scouts of America. For more details, call (888) 2FISHVI (234-7484) or (340) 775-9500. Visit the tournament web site at www.usvi.net/bsa.
St. Croix Environmental Association purchases key habitat with anonymously donated funds
An anonymous benefactor with a love of birds has made it possible for the St. Croix Environmental Association to purchase 60 acres of land at Southgate on the island's east end. The newly named Southgate Pond Nature Preserve was acquired with a donation of $822,697. The move means a prime nesting habitat for birds and endangered sea turtles will be protected forever from commercial development. The property encompasses the eastern third of the salt pond east to Chenay Bay Beach Resort and the land between Green Cay Beach and East End Road. Along with the key sea turtle nesting beach, a dominant feature of the property is the salt pond, which is owned by the V.I. government. Southgate pond is one of the most important ponds in the USVI for local and migrating birds. Some 96 species have been recorded at the site, including 26 that are considered threatened or endangered in the Virgin Islands.
The Westin Resort St. John offers 'Sizzling Summer Sale' and 'Summer Jammers Camp'
Vacationers wanting to stay in one of the territory's most upscale and luxurious properties at unprecedented savings should take advantage of the "Sizzling Summer Sale" promotion being offered by the Westin Resort St. John. Available for travel now through Oct. 31, rates for the "Sizzling Summer Sale" start at $99 per room/per night (double occupancy). This rate represents 67 percent off the regular summer rate of $299 per night. To make the vacation experience even more fun for children, the resort is continuing its "Summer Jammers Camp." From mid-June through mid-August, children will enjoy arts and crafts activities, treasure hunts, seaside hiking adventures, exciting field trips and visits from local artisans and island "celebrities."
Families staying at the resort will also appreciate the "Kids Eat Free" special. Now through Dec. 22, kids 12 years of age and under eat free at the resort when accompanied by an adult. As always, children 18 years of age and younger stay free of charge when staying in their parents' room, and families have the option of getting a second room for children at a 50-percent-off savings. More information about these offers is available by calling the Westin Resort St. John at (340) 693-8000, (800) WESTIN-1, or visiting the Web site at www.westin.com.
St. Thomas's Grand Hotel will receive facelift and new name
The historic Grand Hotel building on St. Thomas will receive a $2 million facelift that will transform the property into a premier tourist destination, retail shopping and business area. The renovated mixed-use building complex will be re-named the Grand Galleria and is expected to open in November. Two new features of the planned Grand Galleria are a glass skylight atrium and an indoor walkway. The Grand Hotel renovation is the second phase of the entire $4 million Grand Hotel block project. Opened in 1840, the historic, three-story building housed the first overseas visitors to the island for almost 60 years. For more information, contact Lockhart Properties at (340) 776-1900.
USVI hotels announce personnel changes
Marriott International has appointed Jayne Hillner general manager of Marriott's Frenchman's Reef and Morning Star Beach Resorts on St. Thomas. Hillner is the first woman in the company to hold a general manager position in the Caribbean and Latin American region. Marriott International also recently appointed David Yamada general manager at the Renaissance Grand Beach Resort on St. Thomas. Yamada will oversee all aspects of operation at the resort. Both appointments are effective immediately.
FROM MARTIN P.R. TO THE WORLD ABOUT THE V.I.
Travel media invited to visit USVI at Travel Media Showcase
All travel journalists are encouraged to visit the U.S. Virgin Islands' booth at Travel Media Showcase at the Atlantic City Convention Center on June 11-14. Please look for the USVI booth, No. 311. A representative will be glad to speak with you about upcoming press trips and story ideas.
New brochures and road signs guide travelers on St. Croix's Heritage Trail
For visitors wanting to go on a historical and cultural adventure, the newly created St. Croix Heritage Trail is the perfect excursion. Recently named one of 50 nationwide Millennium Legacy Trails, the 72-mile driving tour presents many of the island's well-known and hidden treasures. A colorful, fact-filled brochure, including maps, guides travelers between the trail's historical sites and attractions. Recently erected brown and white road signs with a sugar mill symbol point the way to historic sites. Visitors can explore the island on a self-guided driving tour which features fascinating historic attractions, cultural landmarks, scenic overlooks and restored points of interest. Throughout the trail are also opportunities to learn about the island's oral traditions, music, food and agricultural history. Please note: Call the St. Croix Landmarks Society at (340) 772-0598 for additional information or to request a brochure.
St. Thomas's Bolongo Bay offers 'Travel Agent Appreciation Rates'
Travel agents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the U.S. Virgin Islands and Bolongo Bay Beach Club & Villas on St. Thomas by taking advantage of the resort's "Travel Agent Appreciation Rates." Valid for bookings and travel now through Dec. 20, the rates are $75 for the European Plan, $99 for the Continental Plan and $250 for the all-inclusive program. All rates are per room, per night and do not include tax and service charges (except for the all-inclusive option). Agents may bring a guest to share the room. More details about these rates are available by calling (340) 775-1800 or (800) 524-4746. Visit the resort on the Internet at www.bolongo.com.
St. Thomas to host its 28th annual USVI Open/Atlantic Blue Marlin Tournament
The 28th annual staging of the USVI Open/Atlantic Blue Marlin Tournament, one of the most competitive saltwater fishing events in the world, will be held off the waters of St. Thomas on Aug. 11-16. The event consists of three competitions — an angler tournament, a crew tournament and a boat tournament, operated simultaneously. Each competition offers prize money, and the angler who catches the tournament's first 1,000-pound Atlantic Blue Marlin wins a million dollars. Proceeds benefit the Virgin Islands Council Boy Scouts of America. For more details, call (888) 2FISHVI (234-7484) or (340) 775-9500. Visit the tournament web site at www.usvi.net/bsa.
St. Croix Environmental Association purchases key habitat with anonymously donated funds
An anonymous benefactor with a love of birds has made it possible for the St. Croix Environmental Association to purchase 60 acres of land at Southgate on the island's east end. The newly named Southgate Pond Nature Preserve was acquired with a donation of $822,697. The move means a prime nesting habitat for birds and endangered sea turtles will be protected forever from commercial development. The property encompasses the eastern third of the salt pond east to Chenay Bay Beach Resort and the land between Green Cay Beach and East End Road. Along with the key sea turtle nesting beach, a dominant feature of the property is the salt pond, which is owned by the V.I. government. Southgate pond is one of the most important ponds in the USVI for local and migrating birds. Some 96 species have been recorded at the site, including 26 that are considered threatened or endangered in the Virgin Islands.
The Westin Resort St. John offers 'Sizzling Summer Sale' and 'Summer Jammers Camp'
Vacationers wanting to stay in one of the territory's most upscale and luxurious properties at unprecedented savings should take advantage of the "Sizzling Summer Sale" promotion being offered by the Westin Resort St. John. Available for travel now through Oct. 31, rates for the "Sizzling Summer Sale" start at $99 per room/per night (double occupancy). This rate represents 67 percent off the regular summer rate of $299 per night. To make the vacation experience even more fun for children, the resort is continuing its "Summer Jammers Camp." From mid-June through mid-August, children will enjoy arts and crafts activities, treasure hunts, seaside hiking adventures, exciting field trips and visits from local artisans and island "celebrities."
Families staying at the resort will also appreciate the "Kids Eat Free" special. Now through Dec. 22, kids 12 years of age and under eat free at the resort when accompanied by an adult. As always, children 18 years of age and younger stay free of charge when staying in their parents' room, and families have the option of getting a second room for children at a 50-percent-off savings. More information about these offers is available by calling the Westin Resort St. John at (340) 693-8000, (800) WESTIN-1, or visiting the Web site at www.westin.com.
St. Thomas's Grand Hotel will receive facelift and new name
The historic Grand Hotel building on St. Thomas will receive a $2 million facelift that will transform the property into a premier tourist destination, retail shopping and business area. The renovated mixed-use building complex will be re-named the Grand Galleria and is expected to open in November. Two new features of the planned Grand Galleria are a glass skylight atrium and an indoor walkway. The Grand Hotel renovation is the second phase of the entire $4 million Grand Hotel block project. Opened in 1840, the historic, three-story building housed the first overseas visitors to the island for almost 60 years. For more information, contact Lockhart Properties at (340) 776-1900.
USVI hotels announce personnel changes
Marriott International has appointed Jayne Hillner general manager of Marriott's Frenchman's Reef and Morning Star Beach Resorts on St. Thomas. Hillner is the first woman in the company to hold a general manager position in the Caribbean and Latin American region. Marriott International also recently appointed David Yamada general manager at the Renaissance Grand Beach Resort on St. Thomas. Yamada will oversee all aspects of operation at the resort. Both appointments are effective immediately.
All travel journalists are encouraged to visit the U.S. Virgin Islands' booth at Travel Media Showcase at the Atlantic City Convention Center on June 11-14. Please look for the USVI booth, No. 311. A representative will be glad to speak with you about upcoming press trips and story ideas.
New brochures and road signs guide travelers on St. Croix's Heritage Trail
For visitors wanting to go on a historical and cultural adventure, the newly created St. Croix Heritage Trail is the perfect excursion. Recently named one of 50 nationwide Millennium Legacy Trails, the 72-mile driving tour presents many of the island's well-known and hidden treasures. A colorful, fact-filled brochure, including maps, guides travelers between the trail's historical sites and attractions. Recently erected brown and white road signs with a sugar mill symbol point the way to historic sites. Visitors can explore the island on a self-guided driving tour which features fascinating historic attractions, cultural landmarks, scenic overlooks and restored points of interest. Throughout the trail are also opportunities to learn about the island's oral traditions, music, food and agricultural history. Please note: Call the St. Croix Landmarks Society at (340) 772-0598 for additional information or to request a brochure.
St. Thomas's Bolongo Bay offers 'Travel Agent Appreciation Rates'
Travel agents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the U.S. Virgin Islands and Bolongo Bay Beach Club & Villas on St. Thomas by taking advantage of the resort's "Travel Agent Appreciation Rates." Valid for bookings and travel now through Dec. 20, the rates are $75 for the European Plan, $99 for the Continental Plan and $250 for the all-inclusive program. All rates are per room, per night and do not include tax and service charges (except for the all-inclusive option). Agents may bring a guest to share the room. More details about these rates are available by calling (340) 775-1800 or (800) 524-4746. Visit the resort on the Internet at www.bolongo.com.
St. Thomas to host its 28th annual USVI Open/Atlantic Blue Marlin Tournament
The 28th annual staging of the USVI Open/Atlantic Blue Marlin Tournament, one of the most competitive saltwater fishing events in the world, will be held off the waters of St. Thomas on Aug. 11-16. The event consists of three competitions — an angler tournament, a crew tournament and a boat tournament, operated simultaneously. Each competition offers prize money, and the angler who catches the tournament's first 1,000-pound Atlantic Blue Marlin wins a million dollars. Proceeds benefit the Virgin Islands Council Boy Scouts of America. For more details, call (888) 2FISHVI (234-7484) or (340) 775-9500. Visit the tournament web site at www.usvi.net/bsa.
St. Croix Environmental Association purchases key habitat with anonymously donated funds
An anonymous benefactor with a love of birds has made it possible for the St. Croix Environmental Association to purchase 60 acres of land at Southgate on the island's east end. The newly named Southgate Pond Nature Preserve was acquired with a donation of $822,697. The move means a prime nesting habitat for birds and endangered sea turtles will be protected forever from commercial development. The property encompasses the eastern third of the salt pond east to Chenay Bay Beach Resort and the land between Green Cay Beach and East End Road. Along with the key sea turtle nesting beach, a dominant feature of the property is the salt pond, which is owned by the V.I. government. Southgate pond is one of the most important ponds in the USVI for local and migrating birds. Some 96 species have been recorded at the site, including 26 that are considered threatened or endangered in the Virgin Islands.
The Westin Resort St. John offers 'Sizzling Summer Sale' and 'Summer Jammers Camp'
Vacationers wanting to stay in one of the territory's most upscale and luxurious properties at unprecedented savings should take advantage of the "Sizzling Summer Sale" promotion being offered by the Westin Resort St. John. Available for travel now through Oct. 31, rates for the "Sizzling Summer Sale" start at $99 per room/per night (double occupancy). This rate represents 67 percent off the regular summer rate of $299 per night. To make the vacation experience even more fun for children, the resort is continuing its "Summer Jammers Camp." From mid-June through mid-August, children will enjoy arts and crafts activities, treasure hunts, seaside hiking adventures, exciting field trips and visits from local artisans and island "celebrities."
Families staying at the resort will also appreciate the "Kids Eat Free" special. Now through Dec. 22, kids 12 years of age and under eat free at the resort when accompanied by an adult. As always, children 18 years of age and younger stay free of charge when staying in their parents' room, and families have the option of getting a second room for children at a 50-percent-off savings. More information about these offers is available by calling the Westin Resort St. John at (340) 693-8000, (800) WESTIN-1, or visiting the Web site at www.westin.com.
St. Thomas's Grand Hotel will receive facelift and new name
The historic Grand Hotel building on St. Thomas will receive a $2 million facelift that will transform the property into a premier tourist destination, retail shopping and business area. The renovated mixed-use building complex will be re-named the Grand Galleria and is expected to open in November. Two new features of the planned Grand Galleria are a glass skylight atrium and an indoor walkway. The Grand Hotel renovation is the second phase of the entire $4 million Grand Hotel block project. Opened in 1840, the historic, three-story building housed the first overseas visitors to the island for almost 60 years. For more information, contact Lockhart Properties at (340) 776-1900.
USVI hotels announce personnel changes
Marriott International has appointed Jayne Hillner general manager of Marriott's Frenchman's Reef and Morning Star Beach Resorts on St. Thomas. Hillner is the first woman in the company to hold a general manager position in the Caribbean and Latin American region. Marriott International also recently appointed David Yamada general manager at the Renaissance Grand Beach Resort on St. Thomas. Yamada will oversee all aspects of operation at the resort. Both appointments are effective immediately.
FIGTREE PUMP IN SERVICE AS REPAIRS PROCEED
The motor control center at the Figtree Pumping Station has been repaired and "at least one pump is currently in operation," according to a press release from the Public Works Department distributed Saturday morning.
The repair work carried out this week "has halted the sewage discharge to the sea in the vicinity of Cane Garden Bay," said Public Works Commissioner Harold Thompson Jr.
Repair work was continuing to get a standby pump in operation as well. Public Works contracted for the use of a 4-inch auxiliary pump to prevent the discharge of sewage along the Christiansted coast and to allow for emergency repairs to proceed at the LBJ Pumping Station, according to the release.
The Bethlehem Gut sewer main by the east airport access road "has been corrected and simply needs earthwork restoration," Thompson said. Meantime, Public Works has contracted for the repair of the sewer main by the Estate Bethlehem bridge, with work scheduled to begin in the coming week.
Thompson asked that the public avoid the gut area around the Bethlehem bridge and the Cane Garden Bay vicinity until further notice.
The repair work carried out this week "has halted the sewage discharge to the sea in the vicinity of Cane Garden Bay," said Public Works Commissioner Harold Thompson Jr.
Repair work was continuing to get a standby pump in operation as well. Public Works contracted for the use of a 4-inch auxiliary pump to prevent the discharge of sewage along the Christiansted coast and to allow for emergency repairs to proceed at the LBJ Pumping Station, according to the release.
The Bethlehem Gut sewer main by the east airport access road "has been corrected and simply needs earthwork restoration," Thompson said. Meantime, Public Works has contracted for the repair of the sewer main by the Estate Bethlehem bridge, with work scheduled to begin in the coming week.
Thompson asked that the public avoid the gut area around the Bethlehem bridge and the Cane Garden Bay vicinity until further notice.
CANCELED VITRAN MEETING DRAWS FIRE FROM UNION
The rift between the Turnbull administration and the union representing Vitran workers widened even more Friday afternoon as Government House chief labor negotiator Karen Andrews canceled a meeting that had been scheduled earlier in the week to discuss the findings of a government analysis of funding available for the public transit system and the offer of employees to cut back to a four-day work week.
United Steelworkers Union local president Luis "Tito" Morales criticized Andrews Friday evening on Radio One News not only for canceling the meeting at the last moment but also for what he termed "her arrogant attitude and her disrespect" for the workers and the union.
"We were told Friday afternoon that they are canceling the meeting because she claims she was unable to meet with the governor to discuss the analysis," Morales said. Complaining that Andrews had not communicated directly with him about the cancellation but had directed a subordinate to do so, the union leader added, "Her arrogant attitude is not going to be tolerated by us."
Andrews, in a call moments later to Lee Carle on the WSTA-Lucky 13 evening news, which had also carried Morales' charges, denied ever having shown disrespect to him, the union or the workers.
She said she had received the financial analysis "just now" and had had no opportunity to review it herself, let alone meet with the governor, who had just returned to the territory after a week in the nation's capital, to discuss it.
Morales said the union would be filing an unfair labor practice against Andrews over the matter.
The Public Works Department, which oversees the public transit service, laid off 62 Vitran workers — one-half of the work force — on May 11. Turnbull, meantime, directed top officials from the Finance Department, Office of Budget and Management and Public Works to analyze the potential impact of funding appropriated by the Legislature and the offer of Vitran workers to forgo holiday, sick-leave and overtime pay as well as drop to a four-day week.
Andrews told Lucky 13 that the current schedule of operations for Vitran is five buses for St. Thomas, four for St. Croix and two for St. John. However, a combination of mechanical problems and call-ins by drivers reporting illness in the last week left fewer buses running most days. At one point, neither bus on St. John was in service.
Andrews also said there is "no way" that all of the laid-off workers can be rehired, as the union is demanding.
United Steelworkers Union local president Luis "Tito" Morales criticized Andrews Friday evening on Radio One News not only for canceling the meeting at the last moment but also for what he termed "her arrogant attitude and her disrespect" for the workers and the union.
"We were told Friday afternoon that they are canceling the meeting because she claims she was unable to meet with the governor to discuss the analysis," Morales said. Complaining that Andrews had not communicated directly with him about the cancellation but had directed a subordinate to do so, the union leader added, "Her arrogant attitude is not going to be tolerated by us."
Andrews, in a call moments later to Lee Carle on the WSTA-Lucky 13 evening news, which had also carried Morales' charges, denied ever having shown disrespect to him, the union or the workers.
She said she had received the financial analysis "just now" and had had no opportunity to review it herself, let alone meet with the governor, who had just returned to the territory after a week in the nation's capital, to discuss it.
Morales said the union would be filing an unfair labor practice against Andrews over the matter.
The Public Works Department, which oversees the public transit service, laid off 62 Vitran workers — one-half of the work force — on May 11. Turnbull, meantime, directed top officials from the Finance Department, Office of Budget and Management and Public Works to analyze the potential impact of funding appropriated by the Legislature and the offer of Vitran workers to forgo holiday, sick-leave and overtime pay as well as drop to a four-day week.
Andrews told Lucky 13 that the current schedule of operations for Vitran is five buses for St. Thomas, four for St. Croix and two for St. John. However, a combination of mechanical problems and call-ins by drivers reporting illness in the last week left fewer buses running most days. At one point, neither bus on St. John was in service.
Andrews also said there is "no way" that all of the laid-off workers can be rehired, as the union is demanding.
GOVERNOR PUSHES 'PRO-GROWTH' AT RITZ CEREMONY
Freshly back in the territory after a week in Washington, D.C., Gov. Charles W. Turnbull used the groundbreaking ceremony for a major Ritz-Carlton Hotel expansion Friday on St. Thomas's East End as a forum to dig into those politicians who opposed the project and other private-sector initiatives in the territory.
In Washington, he said, he pledged to federal officials that the Virgin Islands would "streamline the public sector and grow the private sector."
Calling Friday with its Ritz-Carlton groundbreaking "a progressive day for the Virgin Islands" and re-emphazing his pro-growth stance, the governor said, "The only way we are going to move ahead in the Virgin Islands is to grow the private sector, to be investor friendly." But, he added, "There's too much opposition to the various projects we have."
He cited particularly the resistance to the resort acquiring a small section of little-used public road that passes through the property for the Ritz-Carlton expansion and also the pending privatization of the Water and Power Authority. He said, "We are not going to move ahead in the Virgin Islands if we have opposition to everything."
Calling for "the support of the entire community," Turnbull added, "We don't intend to sell the islands out to anyone, but . . . there's no way out of this economic morass but to downsize the public sector and grow the private sector." He pledged, "From now on, I'm going to be more forceful in this . . . to show the outside world that we mean business."
Sen. Adlah "Foncie" Donastorg was the most vocal opponent of the government turning the strip of road over to the resort. The move was also opposed by some area residents and civic and environmental groups who challenged the project's Coastal Zone Management permit and by those concerned about public access to Bluebeard's Beach, although another road is more used for that purpose.
The project, priced at $75 million, will add a new Ritz-Carlton Club consisting of 80 residential time-share units, plus 48 more guest rooms and suites and a health spa/recreation center to the hotel's offerings. General manager Carter Donovan said construction is to begin in July and the overall project is expected to take about two years. Meantime, she said, the existing hotel rooms will get new decor and furnishings for the start of next season.
Ritz-Carlton Club marketing and sales director William Coker said about two-thirds of the units put on the market for pre-construction sale have been purchased, for about $6 million all told.
In Washington, he said, he pledged to federal officials that the Virgin Islands would "streamline the public sector and grow the private sector."
Calling Friday with its Ritz-Carlton groundbreaking "a progressive day for the Virgin Islands" and re-emphazing his pro-growth stance, the governor said, "The only way we are going to move ahead in the Virgin Islands is to grow the private sector, to be investor friendly." But, he added, "There's too much opposition to the various projects we have."
He cited particularly the resistance to the resort acquiring a small section of little-used public road that passes through the property for the Ritz-Carlton expansion and also the pending privatization of the Water and Power Authority. He said, "We are not going to move ahead in the Virgin Islands if we have opposition to everything."
Calling for "the support of the entire community," Turnbull added, "We don't intend to sell the islands out to anyone, but . . . there's no way out of this economic morass but to downsize the public sector and grow the private sector." He pledged, "From now on, I'm going to be more forceful in this . . . to show the outside world that we mean business."
Sen. Adlah "Foncie" Donastorg was the most vocal opponent of the government turning the strip of road over to the resort. The move was also opposed by some area residents and civic and environmental groups who challenged the project's Coastal Zone Management permit and by those concerned about public access to Bluebeard's Beach, although another road is more used for that purpose.
The project, priced at $75 million, will add a new Ritz-Carlton Club consisting of 80 residential time-share units, plus 48 more guest rooms and suites and a health spa/recreation center to the hotel's offerings. General manager Carter Donovan said construction is to begin in July and the overall project is expected to take about two years. Meantime, she said, the existing hotel rooms will get new decor and furnishings for the start of next season.
Ritz-Carlton Club marketing and sales director William Coker said about two-thirds of the units put on the market for pre-construction sale have been purchased, for about $6 million all told.
GRADUATING UVI NURSES RECEIVE THEIR PINS
The traditional "pinning" ceremony was held Thursday night for the 13 graduating Nursing Division students in the University of the Virgin Islands Class of 2000.
After a welcome by mistress of ceremonies Maxine A. Nuñez and opening remarks by Nursing Division chair Gloria Callwood, the graduating nurses were addressed by Clarice Comissiong, the territorial director of nursing. Interim UVI Chancellor Roy Watlington echoed a theme of Comissiong's address in his presentation: the desire for local health care operations to employ locally graduated nurses.
The highlight of the program, held in the Harvey Student Center on the UVI campus, was the moving presentation of nursing pins to the soon-to-be-graduates, who will receive their bachelor of science degree. Each candidate had pre-recorded a short thank-you speech which was played while a person special to that student attached the nurse's lapel pin.
A procession of mothers, fathers, grandmothers, husbands and children came forward and pinned their proud graduates while the "thank-you's" filled the hall.
After the pinnings, the graduates recited the professional nurses' oath while holding lighted candles.
The members of the Class of 2000 are Akiba D. Ambrose, Alicia A. Benjamin, Hannifer Z. Britton, Dahlia E. Buncome, Agatha S. Karoo-Henry, Royce A. Hodge, Jennifer J. JnoBaptiste, Shanell L. Larsen, LaToya C. Rochester, Ernie M. Pennyfeather-Simmonds, Tasha M. Sobratti, Michele M. Stout and Tricia V. Garcia-Veraart.
A reception following the ceremony featured decorated cakes from Frank's Bake Shop donated in honor of graduate Garcia-Veraart, a member of the family that owns the bakery.
After a welcome by mistress of ceremonies Maxine A. Nuñez and opening remarks by Nursing Division chair Gloria Callwood, the graduating nurses were addressed by Clarice Comissiong, the territorial director of nursing. Interim UVI Chancellor Roy Watlington echoed a theme of Comissiong's address in his presentation: the desire for local health care operations to employ locally graduated nurses.
The highlight of the program, held in the Harvey Student Center on the UVI campus, was the moving presentation of nursing pins to the soon-to-be-graduates, who will receive their bachelor of science degree. Each candidate had pre-recorded a short thank-you speech which was played while a person special to that student attached the nurse's lapel pin.
A procession of mothers, fathers, grandmothers, husbands and children came forward and pinned their proud graduates while the "thank-you's" filled the hall.
After the pinnings, the graduates recited the professional nurses' oath while holding lighted candles.
The members of the Class of 2000 are Akiba D. Ambrose, Alicia A. Benjamin, Hannifer Z. Britton, Dahlia E. Buncome, Agatha S. Karoo-Henry, Royce A. Hodge, Jennifer J. JnoBaptiste, Shanell L. Larsen, LaToya C. Rochester, Ernie M. Pennyfeather-Simmonds, Tasha M. Sobratti, Michele M. Stout and Tricia V. Garcia-Veraart.
A reception following the ceremony featured decorated cakes from Frank's Bake Shop donated in honor of graduate Garcia-Veraart, a member of the family that owns the bakery.
UVI PINS GRADUATING NURSES OF 2000
In a special ceremony for graduating nurses, the 13 members of the B.S. Nursing class of 2000 were pinned Thursday night at the University of the Virgin Islands Harvey Student Center.
After a welcome by mistress of ceremonies Maxine A. Nuñez and opening remarks by nursing faculty chairperson Gloria Callwood the graduating nurses were addressed by Clarice Comissiong, the territorial director of nursing. A theme of Comissiong's speech, echoed during a presentation by UVI Chancellor Roy Watlington, was the desire for local health care services to employ the graduate nurses.
The highlight of the evening was the moving presentation of nursing pins to the graduating nurses. Each nurse had pre-recorded a short thank you speech which was played while a person special to each graduate attached the nurse's lapel pin.
A procession of mothers, fathers, grandmothers, husbands and children came forward and pinned their proud graduate while the "thank yous" filled the hall.
After the each nurse was pinned, the graduates recited the professional nurses' oath while holding lit candles.
The members of the B.S.N. Class of 2000 are, Akiba D. Ambrose, Alicia A. Benjamin, Hannifer Z. Britton, Dahlia E. Buncome, Agatha S. Karoo-Henry, Royce A. Hodge, Jennifer J.JnoBaptiste, Shanell L. Larsen, LaToya C. Rochester, Ernie M. Pennyfeather-Simmonds, Tasha M. Sobratti, Michele M. Stout, and Tricia V. Garcia-Veraart.
A reception followed the ceremony, with beautifully decorated cakes by Frank's Bake Shop in honor of their graduate, Garcia-Veraart.
After a welcome by mistress of ceremonies Maxine A. Nuñez and opening remarks by nursing faculty chairperson Gloria Callwood the graduating nurses were addressed by Clarice Comissiong, the territorial director of nursing. A theme of Comissiong's speech, echoed during a presentation by UVI Chancellor Roy Watlington, was the desire for local health care services to employ the graduate nurses.
The highlight of the evening was the moving presentation of nursing pins to the graduating nurses. Each nurse had pre-recorded a short thank you speech which was played while a person special to each graduate attached the nurse's lapel pin.
A procession of mothers, fathers, grandmothers, husbands and children came forward and pinned their proud graduate while the "thank yous" filled the hall.
After the each nurse was pinned, the graduates recited the professional nurses' oath while holding lit candles.
The members of the B.S.N. Class of 2000 are, Akiba D. Ambrose, Alicia A. Benjamin, Hannifer Z. Britton, Dahlia E. Buncome, Agatha S. Karoo-Henry, Royce A. Hodge, Jennifer J.JnoBaptiste, Shanell L. Larsen, LaToya C. Rochester, Ernie M. Pennyfeather-Simmonds, Tasha M. Sobratti, Michele M. Stout, and Tricia V. Garcia-Veraart.
A reception followed the ceremony, with beautifully decorated cakes by Frank's Bake Shop in honor of their graduate, Garcia-Veraart.
CORRECTION AND AMPLIFICATION ON TEA-21 FUNDS
In my May 12 article, I cited TEA-21 as T-21. I would like to correct that error and offer some additional information about federal funding of transportation projects to my Op Ed piece on the Vitran crisis.
TEA-21 is an acronym for the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century, enacted by Congress in 1998. TEA-21 expanded the eligible Transportation Enhancement Program activities that were originally included in the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA) of 1991.
TEA-21 funds come from the Federal Highway Administration (FHA) of the U. S. Department of Transportation. They can be used for any road purpose, seaport or airport project, transit improvement, etc.
Some of the projects eligible under TEA-21 are: transit planning, facilities, vehicles, major maintenance, marketing, provisions for facilities and safety education for pedestrians and bicycles, acquisition of scenic easements and scenic or historic sites, landscaping and other beautification, historic preservation, archeological planning and research, control and removal of outdoor advertising and establishment of transportation museums.
In addition, the territory has also received additional federal transportation funding for special, so-called demonstration (high priority) projects. To obtain these funds, each state and territory must develop a Transportation Improvement Plan.
The cost of the territory’s demonstration project, East-West Corridor (Windward Passage Hotel to Raphune Hill) is estimated at $71 million. Only $24.4 million has been authorized for this project, developed during the Schneider administration. Where will the remaining million come from?
Where else but from the annual $6 million in TEA-21 funds allotted to the St. Thomas-St. John district each year.
It is important to note that public participation is an element of TEA-21. This requirement has been ignored by the V. I. Department of Public Works, the State Historic Preservation Office (of DPNR), the Federal Highways Administration and the Advisory Council of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
In the light of the delay of an audit of Vitran management by the V. I.
Inspector General's office, hearings to review the policy of Public Works' transportation policies by the Legislature's Government
Operations Committee is all the more urgent.
How long will Virgin Islanders tolerate being left out of the process of transportation planning?
TEA-21 is an acronym for the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century, enacted by Congress in 1998. TEA-21 expanded the eligible Transportation Enhancement Program activities that were originally included in the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA) of 1991.
TEA-21 funds come from the Federal Highway Administration (FHA) of the U. S. Department of Transportation. They can be used for any road purpose, seaport or airport project, transit improvement, etc.
Some of the projects eligible under TEA-21 are: transit planning, facilities, vehicles, major maintenance, marketing, provisions for facilities and safety education for pedestrians and bicycles, acquisition of scenic easements and scenic or historic sites, landscaping and other beautification, historic preservation, archeological planning and research, control and removal of outdoor advertising and establishment of transportation museums.
In addition, the territory has also received additional federal transportation funding for special, so-called demonstration (high priority) projects. To obtain these funds, each state and territory must develop a Transportation Improvement Plan.
The cost of the territory’s demonstration project, East-West Corridor (Windward Passage Hotel to Raphune Hill) is estimated at $71 million. Only $24.4 million has been authorized for this project, developed during the Schneider administration. Where will the remaining million come from?
Where else but from the annual $6 million in TEA-21 funds allotted to the St. Thomas-St. John district each year.
It is important to note that public participation is an element of TEA-21. This requirement has been ignored by the V. I. Department of Public Works, the State Historic Preservation Office (of DPNR), the Federal Highways Administration and the Advisory Council of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
In the light of the delay of an audit of Vitran management by the V. I.
Inspector General's office, hearings to review the policy of Public Works' transportation policies by the Legislature's Government
Operations Committee is all the more urgent.
How long will Virgin Islanders tolerate being left out of the process of transportation planning?
MEMORIAL DAY TWO MILER SET
The 17th Annual Memorial Day Two Mile Road Race will be held on Memorial Day, May 29 at 6 a.m. The race is in memory of Andrew Edwards, founder of the Finmen Ocean Swimmers, founding member of the Virgin Islands Triathlon Federation and long-time coach of the Bad News Bears Little League Team and a V.I. Pace Runner.
Registration begins at 5 a.m. at the V.I. Family Sports & Fitness Center. The course is from Beeston Hill to Christiansted. Awards will be made to the top male and female finishers and to the school with fastest team of five runners per team.
For more information call V.I. Pace Runners 777-0258.
Registration begins at 5 a.m. at the V.I. Family Sports & Fitness Center. The course is from Beeston Hill to Christiansted. Awards will be made to the top male and female finishers and to the school with fastest team of five runners per team.
For more information call V.I. Pace Runners 777-0258.
