Before the sun fully lifted over Christiansted, the steady beat and rhythm announced what many already knew: the Crucian-Rican Tramp and All Ahwee Big Breakfast was happening, rain or not. Hundreds poured into downtown Christiansted — Crucians, Puerto Ricans, and Crucian-Ricans — following Stanley and the Ten Sleepless Knights, carrying forward a tradition now 20 years strong.
Genelle Francis, originally from St. Croix, is visiting with her family from DC, still in the festival spirit in a cutout tie-dye shirt at the Crucian-Rican Tramp and Breakfast on Tuesday, in downtown Christiansted. (Source photo by Shanell Spencer)
What began in 2006 as a welcoming breakfast in the market has grown into one of St. Croix’s most meaningful ways to close the holiday season, aligned with Three Kings Day, or Día de Reyes, a Puerto Rican tradition honoring the arrival of the Wise Men. By the fourth year, the tramp was added, and the event evolved into what it is today — a fully volunteer-driven celebration of shared heritage.
“This is truly a community event,” said Kendell C. Henry, a committee member of the Crucian-Rican Tramp and All Ahwee Big Breakfast. “Major kudos to the volunteers that come together on a yearly basis. They come from all crafts of life, and we definitely appreciate them.”
That volunteer spirit is the backbone of the event. Chefs, cooks, musicians and helpers give freely of their time. Donations and in-kind services keep everything moving — from food supplies to road closures. Even government agencies play a supporting role, including the Agriculture Department and the Virgin Islands Police Department.
Colette brought her baton to twirl to the sounds of quelbe by Stanley and the Ten Sleepless Knights on Tuesday, during the tramp. (Photo by Leah V. Reffell)
Founding members George “Bagoon” O’Reilly, Gregory Francis, Wanda Bermudez Belardo, Arthur C. Petersen, June Belardo and Fernando Webster envisioned a space where the blended cultures of St. Croix and Puerto Rico could be honored openly and proudly. Two decades later, that vision still resonates, not only in the music and food, but in the language people use to describe themselves.
Johanna Bermudez, film director of Sugar Pathways documentary and one of the younger members involved when the event began, reflected on the power of the word “Crucian-Rican” — and why it matters.
Shaka, 8, and Lily Reffell, 10, holding both the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rican flags in the early morning at the Crucian-Rican Tramp in downtown Christiansted Tuesday. (Source photo by Shanell Spencer)
“It’s an important word to claim and make relevant for us to feel good about,” Bermudez said. “Using the word helps describe the connectivity of our cultures.”
She spoke candidly about how language can shift over time, pointing to the word “papa” — once used as a term of affection, later twisted into something derogatory. For Bermudez, reclaiming “Crucian-Rican” is about restoring pride and context, especially for younger generations growing up with blended identities.
With attendance now topping 1,000 people, the tramp and breakfast have become more than an event — they are a message of unity, acknowledgment and shared history.
Over a thousand tramping through the street behind Stanley and the Ten Sleepless Knights during the Crucian-Rican Tramp and All Ahwee Big Breakfast on Tuesday. (Photo by Lamin S. Reffell)
That togetherness was visible in every direction — elders walking alongside children, longtime friends greeting each other between songs, and businesses like J&W Grocery in Estate Richmond, long considered a cornerstone of community support, continuing their tradition of giving back.
Deborah Richardson, a volunteer, notes she is only frying the johnny cakes made by Fernando “Nando” Webster at the market during the All Ahwee Big Breakfast portion of the event on Tuesday morning, after answering the call to volunteer this year. (Source photo by Shanell Spencer)
As rain clouds lingered overhead and quelbe music carried through Christiansted, the message was clear. Twenty years in, the Crucian-Rican Tramp and All Ahwee Big Breakfast remains exactly what it set out to be: a living celebration of culture and the beauty of coming together — no matter the weather.
Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement marking the fifth anniversary of the violent insurrection at the United States Capitol:
Mob of President Donald Trump’s supporters violently invade the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, to try to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election. (Shutterstock)
“Five years ago today, our nation witnessed an unprecedented assault on American democracy. History will forever regard January 6, 2021, as a dark day when our constitutional process and democracy were attacked evidence shows that it was a coordinated attempt to subvert the will of the American people and halt the peaceful transfer of power that has been the bedrock of our republic for over two centuries.
“As a result of the bravery of the Capitol Police and other law enforcement, this attempt to overturn the 2020 election results failed. Tragically, more than 140 law enforcement officers were injured, and five officers lost their lives in the aftermath. While the physical scars on the Capitol have been repaired, the damage to our democratic institutions requires constant vigilance to guard against future threats.
“The work of defending democracy is never finished. It requires each generation to stand firm against those who would undermine free and fair elections, who would substitute violence for the ballot box, and who would choose power over principle.
“Today, as we remember and honor those who defended democracy that day, we must also commit ourselves to protecting the truth about what happened. This was not ‘legitimate political discourse.’ This was not a ‘tourist visit.’ This was an insurrection, incited by lies about a stolen election—lies that persist today and continue to threaten ourdemocratic process.
“As we enter the 250th anniversary of our nation’s birth, we should use this year to recommit ourselves to the continuation of this democratic experiment until all its citizens have the opportunity to the American dream.
“On this solemn anniversary, I stand with my colleagues in Congress—and Americans across the country—in our unwavering commitment to the Constitution, the rule of law, and the democratic values that define us as a nation. We will not forget January 6, 2021, and we will not allow it to happen again.”
It is with deep respect and fond remembrance that we honor the life of Jerry Mann, who passed away peacefully on December 26, 2025. Though Jerry had no surviving immediate family, he was surrounded by countless special friends whose lives he touched in countless ways. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Wanda and Leonard Mann.
Jerry Mann
Jerry was known for his ever-present smile, his infectious laughter, and his endless stories. His positive, uplifting, and witty personality brightened every room he entered. A vibrant and adventurous soul, he was voted “Most Witty” in high school and proudly served in the United States Navy.
Raised in the Panama Canal Zone he had an amazing childhood with his long-life friends, Jerry eventually made St. Croix his home, drawn to the island’s ocean, its people, and the warmth of lifelong friendships. He was an entrepreneur at heart, fearlessly exploring new ventures including a Christmas tree farm, a sign-making business, and a candle-making company. Jerry loved meeting new people, maintaining old friendships, and helping anyone in need.
He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, generosity, and a life well-lived. Special thanks are extended to the many friends who lovingly cared for him in his final days.
A memorial service celebrating Jerry’s life will be held on Jan. 25, at 10 a.m. on the second level of Shupe’s, Christiansted, St. Croix, on the boardwalk. All who knew and loved Jerry are invited to honor his memory.
Governor Albert Bryan Jr. today announced with deep sorrow the passing of St. Croix attorney Eszart Wynter, a respected legal mind, devoted public servant, and one of the Governor’s dear friends.
Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. (Screenshot from V.I. Legislature livestream)
“I mourn the loss of my dear friend, Eszart Wynter, a man whose life was defined by purpose, service, and an unwavering commitment to justice,” Governor Bryan said. “Eszart was a prolific attorney and a distinguished statesman, but titles alone could never capture the measure of the man. He was, at his core, a tireless advocate for the poor and the marginalized.”
The Governor noted that Wynter’s legal brilliance was matched by his generosity and his enduring commitment to ensuring access to justice, including through years of pro bono work for those who could not afford representation.
“For many, Eszart was not just a lawyer,” Governor Bryan said. “He was hope when the system felt unreachable.”
Governor Bryan also reflected on the personal bond he shared with Wynter and the mentorship that shaped him both publicly and privately.
“To me, Eszart was also a mentor and a friend,” the Governor said. “I will forever treasure our many games of golf together. Competition was always part of it, but so was conversation, laughter, and his steady coaching. He was always teaching, always encouraging me to be better, not only on the course, but in life. His guidance was patient, thoughtful, and rooted in a genuine desire to see others grow.”
Wynter, the Governor said, was a man of wide-ranging interests and talents, a disciplined and balanced spirit who never lost sight of who he was and where he came from.
“Eszart was truly a Renaissance man, an expert pool player, a practitioner of martial arts, and a man of deep intellect and wide-ranging interests,” Governor Bryan said. “He was deeply proud of his Virgin Islands heritage and lived his life in a way that reflected the strength, resilience, and richness of our people. He represented the very best of what it means to be a Virgin Islander.”
Governor Bryan said Wynter’s legacy will endure through the lives he touched and the injustices he helped right, and he called on the community to honor Wynter’s memory by continuing to serve others and stand firmly on principle.
“Above all, Eszart Wynter was a man of integrity, principled, compassionate, and steadfast,” the Governor said. “He will be deeply missed, but never forgotten. May his life continue to inspire us to serve others, to pursue excellence, and to stand firmly on the side of justice. Rest in peace, my friend.”
The Governor extends heartfelt condolences to Wynter’s family, loved ones, colleagues in the legal community, and all who are grieving his loss.
The Virgin Islands Department of Education is providing an update to the community regarding operations at Bertha C. Boschulte Middle School. Beginning Thursday, Jan. 8, Bertha C. Boschulte Middle School will continue operating on an abbreviated schedule until further notice. This follows remediation efforts and additional roofing modifications that were completed during the recent holiday break.
Bertha C. Boschulte Middle School. (Photo by Ananta Pancham)
The abbreviated schedule is designed to maintain continuity of instruction while allowing the Bureau of School Construction and Maintenance the necessary time to continue with critical maintenance and repairs on campus. This decision was made with the utmost concern for the health, safety, and continued learning of students, faculty, and staff.
Under the modified schedule:
The school day will begin at the regular time of 7:20 a.m.
Students will be dismissed daily at 12:50 p.m.
Teachers will provide independent learning opportunities and homework assignments to be completed after dismissal.
All formative assessments, including tests and quizzes, will be administered in person while students are on campus and will not be sent home.
The Boschulte school administration will post and share the abbreviated schedule directly with students and parents. Parents and guardians are encouraged to closely monitor teacher communication platforms for daily assignments, expectations, and important updates. Students are responsible for completing all assigned work.
This adjustment follows a review of data indicating that many families continue to experience challenges with internet connectivity and device access. As a result, a fully virtual schedule was determined to be impractical at this time.
The VIDE remains committed to providing a safe, stable, and supportive learning environment while ensuring academic progress for all students. The Department appreciates the continued patience, cooperation, and support of the Boschulte school community as essential repairs move forward. Additional updates will be shared as more information becomes available.
Con profundo dolor, la familia de Ysidora Fabián anuncia su fallecimiento. Ysidora fue una madre ejemplar, una mujer luchadora y de buen corazón, cuya vida estuvo marcada por el amor, la fortaleza y la entrega a su familia. Nació el 2 de enero de 1957 en la República Dominicana, tierra que siempre llevó en su corazón, y partió de este mundo el 28 de diciembre de 2025.
Ysidora Fabián
Le sobreviven sus amadas hijas Yessica Fabián y Karina Fabián; sus queridos hijos Ángel E. Fabián y David Fabián; sus adorados nietos Luis Fabián, Jesús Fabián, Michelle Fabián, Meridania Feliz Fabián, David, Rachelle, y muchos otros nietos, demasiado numerosos para mencionar; su hermano Patricio Fabián; su sobrina Leonela Fabián; su sobrino Leonel Fabián; sus familiares políticos Carmelo Santiago, Rosemarie Feliz y Julianna Dejesus; así como sus amigos especiales, igualmente numerosos, quienes hoy lamentan profundamente su partida. Agradecemos a Dios por el tiempo que nos permitió compartir con ella en esta tierra, por cada momento en el que pudimos cuidarla, acompañarla y disfrutar de su vida y de su presencia.
Se informa que se llevará a cabo una velación privada para familiares cercanos y amigos el 9 de enero, en la Capilla Divine, de 3:00 p.m. a 5:00 p.m.. La velación fúnebre se realizará el 12 de enero a las 10:00 a.m., seguida del servicio funerario a las 11:00 a.m., en la Capilla Divine, ubicada en #129 Peters Rest, Christiansted, VI 00820.
With deep sorrow, the family of Ysidora Fabián announces her passing. Ysidora was an exemplary mother, a strong and hardworking woman with a kind heart, whose life was marked by love, strength, and devotion to her family. She was born on January 2, 1957, in the Dominican Republic, a place she always carried in her heart, and passed away on December 28, 2025.
She is survived by her beloved daughters Yessica Fabián and Karina Fabián; her cherished sons Ángel E. Fabián and David Fabián; her adored grandchildren Luis Fabián, Jesús Fabián, Michelle Fabián, Meridania Feliz Fabián, David, Rachelle, and many other grandchildren too numerous to mention; her brother Patricio Fabián; her niece Leonela Fabián; her nephew Leonel Fabián; her in-laws Carmelo Santiago, Rosemarie Feliz, and Julianna Dejesus; as well as her special friends, also too numerous to mention, who deeply mourn her passing. We thank God for the time He allowed us to share with her on this earth, for every moment we were able to care for her, accompany her, and enjoy her life and presence.
A private viewing for close family and friends will be held on January 9th at the Divine Chapel from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. A funeral viewing will be held on January 12th at 10:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m., at the Divine Chapel, located at #129 Peters Rest, Christiansted, VI 00820.
Commissioner Jean-Pierre L. Oriol of the Department of Planning and Natural Resources reminds the public that the seasonal closure for harvesting Black Snapper (Apsilus dentatus), Blackfin Snapper (Lutjanus buccanella), Vermilion Snapper (Rhomboplites aurorubens), and Silk Snapper (Lutjanus vivanus) ended at midnight on Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025, as outlined in 50 CFR 622.479(b)(2); 50 CFR 622.514(b)(2); V.I.R.R. Title 12, Chapter 9A §§316-13 & 316-114.
Vermillion snapper
Beginning Jan. 1, 2026, harvest of these species will be permitted through midnight on Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026. These seasonal restrictions are designed to protect these species during critical spawning periods, ensuring sustainable fisheries and the long-term health of Virgin Islands marine resources.
• A recreational or commercial fishing license is required to harvest Black, Blackfin, Vermilion, and Silk Snapper.
• Harvest is allowed in both federal and territorial waters.
• Recreational bag limits:Black snapper
o Maximum 5 fish per person per day, with no more than 2 parrotfish.
o Maximum 15 fish per vessel per day, with no more than 6 parrotfish in federal waters.
• Hind Bank Marine Conservation District (south of St. Thomas): Fishing and anchoring by fishing vessels are prohibited year-round.
• Red Hind Spawning Aggregation Area (east of St. Croix): Closed to fishing from Dec. 1 through the last day of February.
Blackfin snapper
Recreational licenses can be purchased online at https://www.gooutdoorsusvi.com/ For questions or more information, contact: Division of Fish and Wildlife at DFWelectronic@usvi.onmicrosoft.com Or call 340-773-1082 (St. Croix) | 340-775-6762 (St. Thomas). “We ask for everyone’s cooperation to protect Virgin Islands resources for the present and future benefit of the people of the Virgin Islands,” Oriol said.
Construction firm Hill International took the V.I. Public Finance Authority to court in September 2024 after the authority awarded a multimillion-dollar disaster recovery contract to a rival bidder. (Shutterstock image)
A federal judge dismissed a construction firm’s claims that the V.I. Public Finance Authority violated territorial procurement and conflict of interest rules when it awarded a $137 million disaster recovery contract in 2024.
Hill International sued the authority and the V.I. Disaster Recovery Office after the PFA awarded the three-year contract to a rival bidder — CH2M — whose bid was nearly $107 million higher than Hill’s. The company also alleged that the PFA’s evaluation committee had a conflict of interest because three of its five members worked for the V.I. Public Works Department, which also employs two people who work for CH2M’s parent company. Further, Hill claimed that the government’s request for proposals indicated that a minimum of two contracts would be awarded.
Last week’s decision by U.S. District Court Judge Juan Sanchez was in line with a federal magistrate judge’s recommendation to dismiss the claims last March. U.S. Magistrate Judge Alan Teague wrote that it was “purely speculative” whether the award was impacted by the PFA handling the procurement rather than the V.I. Property and Procurement Department and that there were “simply no facts alleged in the complaint” to indicate that the award “was the result of unfair competition, favoritism, or collusion.”
“As Judge Teague rightfully points out, Hill does not allege the evaluation committee members and these employees worked together, exchanged information, or in any way improperly influenced each other,” Sanchez wrote. “Hill’s allegation is only supported by ‘mere conclusory statements’ and speculation.”
Sanchez also agreed with Teague’s finding that Hill failed to provide evidence that the award was arbitrary and capricious, other than the $107 million price difference.
“He determined that the RFP constituted a best value procurement which did not require VIPFA to choose the lowest bidder,” Sanchez wrote. “The Court also finds this RFP was a best value procurement and that Hill has not alleged sufficient facts to show the award was arbitrary and capricious based on price alone.”
In their response to Teague’s recommendation, Hill’s attorneys argued that the PFA used a price realism analysis to determine whether Hill’s bid was “unreasonably low” and that this criterion wasn’t disclosed in the RFP or by the evaluation committee. Sanchez wasn’t convinced, and he noted that the claim wasn’t part of Hill’s initial complaint.
“Judge Teague was correct in disregarding this new argument,” he wrote. “Second, even if Hill could bring this unstated evaluation criteria claim, a plaintiff must show that the agency used a significantly different basis in evaluating the proposals than was disclosed and that it has been prejudiced as a result.”
Citing sworn statements by evaluation committee members, Sanchez said the committee’s concerns about Hill’s bid appeared to be about the firm’s allocation of labor and resources as well as a “lack of detail in the construction management portion of the proposal” rather than price.
Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. will deliver the 2026 State of the Territory Address at 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 26, from the Earle B. Ottley Legislative Chamber on St. Thomas, Government House announced in a press release.
The Legislature is expected to consider and act on a request to move the address from Jan. 12 to Jan. 26 during its scheduled session Monday, Jan. 12, according to the press release.
The 2026 address will be Bryan’s eighth and final State of the Territory Address. He is expected to outline the administration’s work over the past seven years, discuss the territory’s current outlook, and present priorities for the year ahead, the press release stated.
“This is a moment to speak plainly to the people of the Virgin Islands about where we stand, what we have built together, and what must still be done,” Bryan said. “It is also a moment to honor the strength of our people. We have been tested, we have worked, and we have moved these islands forward. I encourage every Virgin Islander, at home and across the diaspora, to tune in.”
The State of the Territory Address serves as the governor’s annual report to the Legislature and the public, outlining major initiatives and policy priorities affecting residents of St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John, the release stated.
An enhanced livestream will be available on facebook.com/governmenthouseusvi and facebook.com/viconsortium. The address will also air on Government Access Network Channel 27 for One Communications cable subscribers, WTJX Channel 12, and LEGVI Channel 26. Additional livestream options include facebook.com/wtjx and facebook.com/LegislatureUSVI, it stated.
The specialized boat St. John Rescue depends on for the improbable is in desperate need. Routine maintenance revealed significant corrosion to its engines, meaning Marine II needs to be outfitted with new, powerful outboards capable of surmounting the dire conditions the boat is designed to face. The bill is a whopping $42,000, representatives of the nonprofit emergency services organization said Monday.
St. John Rescue fielded 57 emergency calls in 2025 and sent out Marine II 38 times, said public information officer Langley Shazor.
Twenty-one of those calls were the hair-raising kind: vessels in mechanical distress or taking on water after running aground, missing paddle boarders, missing swimmers, snorkelers and divers, and drownings.
“Our rescue vessel is also used to extract injured persons from remote areas such as beaches and hiking trails. This capability dramatically reduces the time necessary for patients to receive definitive care at the hospital,” Shazor said. “Marine emergencies are unpredictable, and having a fully capable primary vessel is essential to saving lives and protecting responders.”
With no morgue or related cooling services on St. John, Marine II was called on 17 times to transport bodies from St. John to St. Thomas, he said.
Other missions were to prevent potential catastrophe. The boat is regularly called on for community events as a standby in case of emergencies. In 2025, it was on call for the Beach to Beach Power Swim, Paddle for Paws paddleboard race, Coral Bay Yacht Club Sailboat Regatta, and Friends of the National Park Gala on Lovango Cay.
Marine II is no ordinary rescue boat, Shazor said.
The specially engineered rescue vessel is designed to operate in unforgiving environments like the North Sea. It’s capable of quickly deploying into heavy seas exceeding six feet, day or night, utilizing Garmin GPS charts, and marine radios capable of monitoring multiple VHF radio frequencies. Marine II carries 200 gallons of fuel for extended range and is powered by twin 200-horsepower engines capable of speeds exceeding 35 miles per hour while carrying eight people. Onboard, it is equipped with oxygen and airway management tools, trauma dressings and immobilization gear, as well as an automated external defibrillator for cardiac arrest, Shazor said. It is also equipped with dewatering pumps capable of removing 4000 gallons of water per hour from sinking vessels and tools capable of plugging a ranging size of holes in hulls.
“Marine I, on the other hand, is a recreational boat designed to be operated in fair conditions,” he said. “It is designed to be driven in calmer bays, is powered by twin 115-horsepower engines, and carries 70 gallons of fuel. It can reach speeds of roughly 25 miles per hour in calm conditions while carrying four rescuers. Marine I is not equipped with GPS charts so is unable to navigate at night.”
The volunteer-based organization is asking for the community’s support to help restore Marine II to service as quickly as possible. Donations and assistance toward the repower effort will have an immediate and measurable impact on rescue readiness and response capability,” Shazor said.
Donations to St. John Rescue can be made at their Gifft Hill headquarters or sent to P.O. Box 1225, St. John, V.I. 00831 or through this link: https://stjrescue.networkforgood.com/projects/78175-the-life-we-save-could-be-yours.
