‘Enough!’ Plays is a nationwide project to end gun violence with 10-minute plays written by teens in high school. The St. Croix Educational Complex and the Good Hope Country Day School drama students are writing a total of six plays, which will be performed on Monday, Oct. 6, at 6 p.m. at the SCEC auditorium.
“ENOUGH! Plays to End Gun Violence” creates space for teens to confront gun violence by creating new works of theater that will spark a critical conversation and inspire meaningful action in communities across the country. The Mission of ENOUGH! is to promote playwriting as a tool for self-expression and social change, harnessing this generation’s spirit of activism and providing a platform for America’s playwrights of tomorrow to discover and develop their voices today.
Sayeeda Carter, producer/director (Photo courtesy Sayeeda Carter)
SCEC Drama Club teacher, founder and Executive Director of Act Out Ensemble Theatre of the Oppressed, Virgin Islands, Sayeeda Carter, and GHCDS Associate Director of Advancement, Drama and Musical Theatre Educator/Producer Kiomie Pedrini, have joined theatrical forces in their classrooms. The students will share their work onstage at SCEC as part of a nationwide project to end gun violence.
Kiomie Pedrini, co-director (Photo courtesy Kiomie Pedrini)
“This is a first for St. Croix and our drama students are committed to the inclusion of St. Thomas next year,” Carter said. “It’s the bold voices of high schoolers picking up art to do activism. They write these plays about the travesty of gun violence and how it has shown up in these fictional characters’ lives,” Carter continued.
Carolyn Forno, co-director (Photo courtesy Carolyn Forno)
“This year, one of the writers is a young man who was a part of a school shooting. Many of the kids range in age from 13 to 19 years and submit their plays in January. This coming January, we can get young people on St. Croix and St. Thomas to submit plays. Perhaps one of the six chosen plays will be by a Virgin Islands young playwright,” Carter said.
“We are endeavoring a performance to a staged reading of our six local plays to a packed audience at the Complex on October 6,” Carter mused.
“There is a suggested donation of $5, but there’s no barrier to entry. If one does not have the $5, please walk right in,” Carter said assuredly.
The donations will go to the SCEC Drama Club, the GHCDS Drama Club and the remainder will go to Blue Tarp Productions. “Their organization does films about gun violence. Whatever the percentage is that is earned after expenses, will go to the three groups,” Carter shared.
Carter spoke excitedly about the evening after the performances. ”We are going to use the style of John O’Neill called ‘Story Circle Process.’ Audience members can talk to one another about the effects of gun violence in our community.”
Carter is inviting and calling out all therapists and all mental health professionals to experience these performances. Invites have already gone out to our legislators, she said.
Carter’s main reason for doing this project comes from personal reasons. The daughter of one of Carter’s classmates was killed by gun violence five years ago. “I never knew what I could do about it. I was so sad. When I saw the information about ENOUGH! Plays, I knew this was the way I could give back to my classmate’s suffering. This project is the intersection of theater and this huge concern that we have. We’re such a murderous community for such a small place. I wondered … how many people would deal with ENOUGH! Plays? Would they come out? Would they talk about it? Could it generate conversation? And I realized that this is a program that, I think, should be happening in each and every community in America,” Carter reasoned.
“ENOUGH! Plays are happening in over 70 places on Oct. 6. If there is anyone who is stateside, please Google your county or city and find out where these plays are being performed and do your utmost to attend,” Carter said.
Carter is happy to share the plays with GHCDS. Their kids will be performing two plays and my kids will perform four. My kids are excited to work with GHCDS, Carter shared.
“Directing ENOUGH! has been an incredible journey of learning and growth, not only for our students, but for me, as well. Together, we discovered how powerful theater can be when it is used as a platform for truth-telling and change. Watching our students engage with these difficult themes, support one another and step into their roles with courage has been inspiring. This process reminded me that when young people raise their voices through art, communities listen – and change becomes possible,” Kiomie Pedrini, co-director, GHCDS, said.
Allegra Ferreras, GHCDS, Grade 12, shared, “Being part of ENOUGH! was one of the most powerful experiences I’ve had as a student. We didn’t just perform – we learned, we listened and we had real conversations about an issue that affects us all. The process taught me how theater can be a tool for change, and I’ll carry the lessons we discovered together far beyond the stage.”
George Cannon III, director of Blue Tarp Productions, shared that the company will cover ENOUGH! Plays Oct. 1.
Cannon spoke to the Source about Carter’s involvement in the community and asked that the Source print his observations:
“All the credit goes to Sayeeda Carter. She has always been championing my group [Blue Tarp Productions]. Sayeeda is a leader in art and doing art. Sayeeda has been the leader in social impact in this community and we have been following her. She has done a lot of the groundwork for ENOUGH! She has made this project possible for our community. It’s all Sayeeda. She’s the one! She’s a powerhouse. She makes it happen. I don’t think Sayeeda gets enough credit for what she’s doing.”
Participating Student Performers:SCEC: “The Perfect Victim”
Meshach M. Price, Grade 9
Victoria Crawford, Grade 10
Alaire Davis, Grade 10
Knala Hendrickson, Grade 10
Keemar Crosskey, Grade 12
Jeffrey Fleming, Grade 10
Anabeth Walter, Grade 12
Leah-Joy Slocombe, Grade 11
Katelyn Jones, Grade 10
Soriyah Evans, Grade 11
E’leeya B. Richards, Grade 12
SCEC: “Nobody Cares About Death”
Zuma E. Nisbett, Grade 11
Bilal McFarlande, Grade 11
GHCDS: “We Didn’t Have To Meet Here”
Lena Kammerzelt, Grade 10
Harlen Konapitsky, Grade 9
Avery Adams, Grade 9
Anna Simon, Grade 12
Maya Prasad, Grade 12
GHCDS: “Oh Look, Another School Shooting”
Avery Adams, Grade 9
Anna Simon, Grade 12
Brooklyn Jean-Pierre, Grade 7
Allegra Ferreras, Grade 12
Lena Kammerzelt, Grade 12
Harlen Konapitsky, Grade 9
Maya Prasad, Grade 12
ENOUGH! Performances: Monday, Oct. 6, 6 p.m., Complex Auditorium
Please note: The AC is very cold. Please dress accordingly.
For more information:
SCEC: 340-778-2036
kpedrini@ghcds.orgActoutensembletheatre@gmail.com
GHCDS: 340-778-1974 ext. 2114
Virgin Islands police are asking the public for information after a man was robbed at gunpoint Wednesday evening in Anna’s Retreat, the department announced in a press release.
At about 5 p.m. on Wednesday, the victim told police he was turning his vehicle around on a dead-end road when a red car blocked his exit. A man wearing a hood got out of the car, pointed a gun at the victim’s head, and demanded money, police said. The victim handed over his cash, and the gunman fled in the same vehicle in an unknown direction, according to the release.
The VIPD Criminal Investigation Bureau is investigating the case and urged anyone with information to call 911, the CIB at 340-774-2211 extensions 5553–5556, Crime Stoppers V.I. at 800-222-TIPS, the Chief’s Office at 340-715-5546, or the Commissioner’s Office at 340-715-5506.
Police emphasized that all tips will be kept confidential and that callers can remain anonymous.
McDonald’s is calling on the community to participate in a fundraising event for My Brother’s Workshop on Friday, Oct. 3. On this day, all proceeds from Big Mac® sales will be donated to support the charity’s education and vocational programs on St. Thomas and St. Croix.
All McDonald’s locations across the US Virgin Islands will participate in the annual Great Day fundraiser as part of McDonald’s corporate dedication to social responsibility and to support the communities they serve.
Vincent Lamazou, Managing Director of Arcos Dorados Puerto Rico and USVI is enthusiastic about the event. “Our team looks forward to this event all year. We invite everyone to join us to support My Brother’s Workshop. It’s truly a joyful occasion!”
“We’re so grateful that McDonald’s USVI continues to stand with MBW through the Great Day fundraiser. This incredible support helps us keep our doors open and creates life-changing opportunities for young people across the Virgin Islands through mentoring, education, counseling, hands-on training, and job placement.” said Chrystie Payne, MBW Assistant Program Director.
My Brother’s Workshop is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing hope, faith, education and opportunities for at-risk young adults in the US Virgin Islands. The program provides education, on the job training and job placement that has helped over 1,600 young people choose a better path, further their education, and ultimately change their lives.
Purchase a Big Mac from McDonald’s on Oct. 3 to make it a ‘Great Day’ for My Brother’s Workshop and our community. Follow McDonald’s USVI on Facebook for updates and reminders on ‘Great Day’ 2025.
Yvonne Lewis died Aug. 29, 2025.
Yvonne Lewis
Funeral Service will be Monday, Oct. 6. Viewing 9-10 a.m., Service 10 a.m. at Mt. Zion New Testament Church of God. Interment at Eastern Cemetery
Preceded in Death by:
Mother: Evelyn Kelly
Sisters: Doreen Kelly, Kathleen Browne
Brother: Ernest Browne
Daughters: Eicilma M. Stevens-Walters, Cheryl Browne
Son: Michael Browne
Survived by:
Sons: Gerard “PJ” Browne, Vincent Edward
Son in law: Ashley “Pink” Walters”
Grandchildren: Pamela “Babyloo” West, Jean “Laverne” Claxton, Sherimah Stevens, Dion “Ayatollah” Stevens (Deceased), Alexis “Rambo” Hazel, Sean “I-Shondi” Stevens, Daren “Bogle” Stevens, Alanzo “Nazie” Walters (deceased), Taj and Tajal Herbert, Tamara Herbert, Taneisha Gilbert, Tameka Browne, Talia Herbert-Vasquez, Jamicha Meyers
Great-Grand Children: Jemira, Javon, Jameel, Janique, J’Nia West, Jamoy & Jariana Manners, Valentine Dasent (deceased), Jenai & Ja’Darion Stribbling, Jamal & Tevon Claxton, Keyshanique Drew, Sha’Nisha Gidharry, Nosakhere Williams, Mychael, Naphtali, Melchi, Menelik Stevens, Myra Williams, Daren II, Amarrah, Ayanah, Macateleyah “Sage” Stevens, Ayden and Zhuri Stevens, Jamal Lewis, Shaniah & Jada Browne, Julaun & Yajaira Walters, Londyn Davis, Adanskee Henry, Jr., Celestino Santiago III, Hunter & Morgan Herbert, Tajal Herbert jr., Christian, Taneah, & Teayani Herbert, Rashamere Rivera, Anthony & Natalia Vasquez
Nephews: Culbert Browne, Trevor “Banjass” Browne, Kingsley Browne, Elroy “Sports” Browne, Elvis “Elbo” Browne, Steve Browne, Robert Browne, Terrance “Tops” Browne, Leopold Christopher
Special Friends: Oma Forbes, Aria and Gertrude Duncan, Olivia Gumbs, Erika Weekes, Alice Percival, Janice Cole, Dola Lambert, Adanskee Henry Sr., Grace Baptiste, Janice Maldonado
Arrangement by Turnbull’s Funeral Home
Congresswoman Plaskett is grateful for this resolution and is continuing to dedicate her full attention to addressing the critical needs of Virgin Islands residents.
Throughout her distinguished career—as a prosecutor in New York, at the U.S. Department of Justice, and as the representative for the U.S. Virgin Islands in Congress—Congresswoman Plaskett has maintained an unwavering commitment to integrity, the rule of law, and advocacy for those most vulnerable. She has consistently stood against sexual violence and the exploitation of women and children. The frivolous case brought against the Congresswoman was completely dismissed without any settlement payment or any other agreement whatsoever. The outright dismissal of this case—without a single dollar paid or any form of settlement—shows that the claims asserted against Congresswoman Plaskett were entirely baseless and that Congresswoman Plaskett had no involvement in Epstein’s disgusting and abhorrent activities.
The Congresswoman has consistently stated that Jeffrey Epstein’s actions against the plaintiffs and countless other women were absolutely reprehensible. She remains hopeful that all of Epstein’s victims receive the justice and closure they deserve and continues to pray for their healing and recovery.
Congresswoman Plaskett and her family extend their heartfelt gratitude to the many individuals who offered support and encouragement during this period.
Senator At Large, Angel L. Bolques Jr. is strongly opposing the Virgin Islands Port Authority’s proposed marine and parking fees, calling them regressive and unfair to the people of St. John—an island already carrying the highest cost of living and the least access to public services in the territory.
The proposed fees include: An Additional Passenger Fee for Non-Drivers at the Red Hook Barge Ramp. A Cargo Overflow Staging Fee and A Paid Parking System at the Victor Sewer Marine Facility lot (across from the Cruz Bay Post Office).
Unlike St. Thomas and St. Croix, St. John lacks full-service public infrastructure, including a fully operational fire station, a Human Services office, a Youth and Recreation Center, and medical facilities, among others. Many government departments do not maintain full local offices on St. John, and those that do often operate with limited hours, reduced staff, or restricted services. As a result, residents are often forced to travel to St. Thomas at their own expense for essential services, appointments, and basic necessities.
VIPA’s 2025 Marine Tariff currently exempts cargo transported between St. Thomas and St. John from ship dues and applies reduced wharfage fees—explicitly recognizing the economic and logistical dependency between the two islands. “These exemptions exist for a reason. They acknowledge the hardship,” said Bolques. “So why now are we proposing to reverse course—without any improvement in services?”
Senator Bolques also highlighted that VIPA’s Airline Incentive Program grants 100% landing fee waivers and 50% reductions in terminal and user fees to airlines expanding service into the territory.
Meanwhile, cruise lines receive discounted port dues at St. Croix to boost tourism traffic.
“If VIPA can give generous breaks to billion-dollar airlines and cruise lines, it can afford to treat St. John residents with fairness,” said Bolques. “This kind of imbalance is deeply concerning.”
Here is why the Proposed Fees Are Unfair to St. John Residents
1. Red Hook Barge Ramp – Non-Driver Passenger Fee
· Discriminates against non-drivers, including seniors, young people, low-income residents, and those without access to vehicles.
· No added infrastructure or service improvements—just an extra charge to get on the barge.
· Creates a two-tier travel system that penalizes accessibility. (Vehicle + Passenger)
2. Cargo Overflow Staging Fee
· Raises costs for nearly all goods brought into St. John.
· Hurts small businesses already moving supplies and goods from St. Thomas to St. John
· Residents will pay more for food, fuel, construction materials, and basic essentials—on an island where prices are already the highest.
3. Paid Parking at the Cruz Bay VIPA Lot
· Removes free access to a central location historically used by residents for daily tasks—mail, banking, errands, and ferry transit.
· Targets locals, not tourists or transient traffic.
· Introduces a new cost without any plan for improvements, maintenance, or security.
“VIPA may be meeting with the public, but what we need is a fair plan—one that matches what people pay with the services they actually receive,” said Senator Bolques. “Right now, that balance doesn’t exist. These proposed fees would only make life harder for those who already face the greatest challenges. We should be closing that gap—not making it wider.”
He continued: “Charging a non-driver passenger fee at Red Hook is essentially taxing people for not owning a car. When many residents can’t afford a vehicle, insurance, or the barge fee to begin with, this kind of charge hits the most vulnerable the hardest.”
“I remain committed to standing against any policy that places an unfair burden on our people—especially those in communities that have historically been underserved,” said Senator Bolques. “My focus has always been on equity, access, and accountability. I will continue to fight for fair, lasting solutions that improve the quality of life for all Virgin Islanders and ensure that no one is left behind,” he concluded.
Elroy Hill of St. Thomas, VI and residing in Montgomery County, Maryland passed away on Sept. 20, 2025, at age 86.
Elroy Hill
Elroy was born on November 13, 1938, to the late Valdemar A. Hill Sr. and Florence C. Hill, on Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands.
He is survived by his wife Lorraine of 60 years and his son Mark, daughter-in-law Rosanna, step-grandson-Jene Andre Garcia, granddaughter-in-law, Jomyka and great grandchildren, Markus and Harper Lilly.He is also survived by five siblings: Milton Malone, Valdemar Hill Jr. PhD., Donald Hill, along with Kathleen Hill Dyer, and Florence Hill Trent PhD. He is preceded in death by siblings: Elsie Hill Chinnery, Edwin Hill, Evan Hill, and Roger Hill.
Elroy is also survived by his Aunt and Uncle, Mavis H. Brady and Guy Donovan, Sisters-In-Law, Charlene, Jennifer, and Lorraine D. Hill, and Brothers-In-Law, Lowell Dyer, Wendell Trent, and Eugene A. Marteen along with many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and numerous cousins. We also recognize his extended families to include the Vanterpool, Donovan, Sprauve, Blyden, Chinnery, and Vialet families, as well as special friends, Cecilia Rivera-Hill, Linda Hill, and Gail Calwood.
Elroy was always very dedicated to his family, career, and community. His leadership and caring for his extended family have always been appreciated and recognized.He also lived a very active working life that spanned several global geographies and occupational areas. He started his working career in the U.S. Air Force where he was initially deployed to Japan for two years with his subsequent two years deployed throughout the continental United States. During his Air Force career, he served as a Personnel Specialist and attained the rank of Airman 2nd Class and was awarded the Good Conduct Medal for his performance and conduct.After his service in the Air Force, he returned to St. Thomas and joined the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Finance for approximately 2 years before transitioning to the U.S. Virgin Islands District Court as a Court Assistant. After a few years, Elroy resigned his position with the Court and moved to New York City, where he worked for Twentieth Century Fox during the day and attended Pace College in the evening. However, after living nine months in New York City, he returned to St. Thomas due to illness and convalesced at his parents’ home before going back to work for the Department of Finance. Aided by his strong determination to succeed, he completed additional accounting courses from the College of the Virgin Islands and Lasalle Extension University which advanced his career from Bookkeeper to Accountant, Auditor, and finally Senior Auditor. He often indicated that his years at the Department of Finance were very rewarding because of the knowledge, skills and experience acquired. Subsequently, he joined the Virgin Islands Office of Community Services within the Office of the Governor and served as Business Manager and Director. He was also a member of the State Manpower Planning Council of the Virgin Islands Community Action Agency Programs and was elected Chairman of the Board of another local non-profit economic development corporation. These positions gave him a wealth of administrative, management and leadership experiences.
However, recognizing that the practicality of job experience also needed to be balanced with formal education, he attended the College of the Virgin Islands and received his Associate of Arts degree in Business Administration in 1972. This positioned him to become a member of the Cabinet of Governor Cyril E. King as the Executive Director, for the Office of Community Services.
In 1976, Governor Cyril E. King appointed Elroy and his wife Lorraine to the first Inter-Governmental Personnel Assignment (IPA) to the U.S. Department of Interior from the Virgin Islands. Elroy was the first Desk Officer for the U.S. Virgin Islands at the U.S. Department of Interior, Office of Territorial Affairs. After his service with the IPA, Elroy made a serious decision to remain in the Washington, DC metropolitan area (Montgomery County, MD) in order to provide a better education for his son, Mark. He quickly found employment as Personnel Director with Dynamac Corporation in Rockville, MD, a government consulting firm of approximately 300 employees at the time. He quickly advanced to Vice President of Human Resources and remained with the company for 30 years prior to retiring. Elroy also leveraged his professional background with the community as a Board Member of the 22nd Division of the Rockville, Maryland Lions Club.
Although Elroy was dedicated and active in his professional and working life, he always remained dedicated and active in his church and religious life at St. Andrews Lutheran Church in Silver Spring, Maryland. For many decades, he was an usher and a greeter for Sunday worship services, taught Bible Study Classes, and engaged in many of the church’s religious programs. He always looked forward to socializing and having coffee and danish after Sunday service. His dedication to church and religious life was built on his baptism and childhood in the Frederick Evangelical Lutheran Church on St. Thomas, VI.
Elroy will always be remembered for his caring love and leadership to his entire family. In particular, he is remembered for transitioning his mother to Maryland to live with him and his family, which allowed her life to blossom in her latter years.
Elroy will be put to rest on Oct. 10 in Silver Spring, Maryland.
May he rest in eternal peace with the Most High.
The Government Employees’ Retirement System announced Wednesday that it has once again received less than promised from the Matching Fund special purpose vehicle, underscoring how shaky rum revenues have left the pension system vulnerable despite a recent federal win.
In an emailed statement, GERS Administrator Angel Dawson said the Oct. 1 debt service payment from the Public Finance Authority fell short by more than $21.7 million. Combined with shortfalls in 2023 and 2024, the system has received $112.2 million less than pledged under the Indenture of Trust. “Those who thought that the rum excise tax cover-over rate being permanently set at $13.25 per proof gallon would guarantee promised funding to the GERS should note that it was not made retroactive by Congress, as was hoped,” Dawson said.
Rum Cover-Over and the Matching Fund Vehicle
The pension system has relied heavily on revenues from the federal rum excise tax. Those funds, known as “cover-over” revenues, are collected on every proof gallon of rum produced in the Virgin Islands and sold on the U.S. mainland, then remitted to the territory. In 2022, the government securitized those revenues by creating the Matching Fund Special Purpose Vehicle — a financing structure that issues bonds backed by future rum cover-over receipts. The idea was to stabilize GERS by directing between $82 million and $158 million annually into the system for the next 30 years.
But the payments have been unevenly distributed, according to GERS, with smaller amounts front-loaded and larger ones later in the schedule. Coupled with declining rum sales and Congress’s decision not to make the new $13.25 cover-over rate retroactive, the SPV has already delivered less than anticipated. Dawson pegged the losses at $34 million in 2023 and $56.4 million in 2024.
At a July press briefing, Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. celebrated Congress’s decision to permanently lock in the $13.25 rate, long considered the territory’s most important revenue stream. For years, the Virgin Islands had relied on temporary extensions that applied retroactively. The new law makes the higher rate permanent starting in 2026 but does not cover the gap since the last extension expired in 2021.
Bryan acknowledged the short-term squeeze, noting tequila’s rise in popularity and rum producers’ attempts to regain market share. “Spirits flow up and down,” he said at the time, adding that the administration has been actively seeking to attract additional rum companies to the territory.
Board Tries to Act – But Then Gets BlockedTo shore up funding, the GERS board of trustees last September voted to raise the employer contribution rate from 23.5% to 26.5%. The increase was initially scheduled for January 2025 but was postponed after Bryan warned in a November 2024 letter that it would be “unsustainable” without clarity on rum revenues. In June, the board reaffirmed the hike for Oct. 1, citing its fiduciary duty.
The Legislature quickly stepped in. Last month, senators passed a measure amending Title 3 of the Virgin Islands Code to strip the board of authority to unilaterally increase contribution rates. The bill not only requires legislative approval for any future hikes but also resets the employer contribution rate at 23.5% for FY 2026, which could nullify the board’s October increase.
On Wednesday night, Bryan confirmed to the Source that the bill is among the measures – to include the FY 2026 budget bills – he signed into law this week. While stopping short of prescribing next steps, he suggested the responsibility could now rest with lawmakers to help address the shortfalls, since they have assumed control over how contribution rates are set.
For Dawson, the debate reflects a larger crisis. “Now that the board has been summarily stripped of that statutory authority … the countdown towards insolvency has begun,” he said Wednesday, citing actuarial forecasts that project depletion between 2033 and 2039.
The trial of Richardson Dangleben Jr., which was scheduled to begin Monday in District Court on St. Thomas, has been canceled and removed from the trial calendar until the Third Circuit considers two interlocutory appeals by the prosecution, including whether it may proceed as a death penalty case.
District Court Chief Judge Robert Molloy issued the order Wednesday, a day after the U.S. Justice Department gave notice that, besides appealing the death penalty ruling, it also plans an interlocutory appeal from his order dismissing two counts of Dangleben’s indictment.
The Third Circuit Court of Appeals last week said it would refer the DOJ’s appeal of Molloy’s order striking the death penalty from the record — and the defense’s motion to dismiss that appeal on jurisdictional grounds — to a merits panel for consideration after expedited briefing. It told the government then that it should promptly give notice of any intent to appeal the dismissal of charges so the related matters could be heard together.
The ruling by Third Circuit Judges Thomas M. Hardiman, Stephanos Bibas and Arianna J. Freeman stipulated that the DOJ’s brief must be filed within 14 days of Friday’s order, the defense’s brief within 14 days after that, and the government’s reply brief within seven days thereafter.
The clerk will calendar the appeals before the panel scheduled to sit in the U.S. Virgin Islands during the week of Dec. 8, according to the order.
A grand jury returned a 13-count indictment against Dangleben in October 2023, charging him with violations of federal and territorial laws in connection with the shooting death of V.I. Police Detective Delberth Phipps Jr. on July 4 that year, and the assault of another officer who also responded to the 911 call concerning a man with a gun in Hospital Ground on St. Thomas.
While the DOJ said in February 2024 that it would not seek the death penalty, it reversed course in May after an executive order from President Donald Trump lifting former President Joe Biden’s moratorium on federal executions. Dangleben’s attorney, Public Defender Matthew Campbell, filed a motion opposing the about-face and after briefing by both sides, Molloy struck the government’s notice from the record in August, ruling that the case will proceed as a non-capital case.
The DOJ appealed that order to the Third Circuit on Sept. 15, raising jurisdictional questions as to whether it can do so while the case is ongoing. Campbell filed an emergency motion to dismiss, or to at least hear the appeal on an expedited basis, on Sept. 19.
On Sept. 25, Molloy issued an order dismissing Counts 2 and 3 of the superseding indictment — discharge of a firearm in furtherance of a crime — that Campbell argued failed to state an offense under the United States Code because the predicate offenses upon which the charges are based are local territorial offenses.
Since the notices of appeal, three attorneys with the Federal Community Defender Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, who have specialized expertise in capital litigation, have been appointed to serve as co-counsel for Dangleben. Learned counsel Allison Ferber Miller, an expert in death penalty cases, was appointed in February after the DOJ indicated its intent to reverse its no-seek notice.
Ferries line up at the dock at Cruz Bay. (Source photo by Amy H. Roberts)Editor’s Note: Since this story was posted Wednesday night, VIPA has made the rates available. Click here to view the rates.
St. John residents are waiting anxiously to hear the details regarding a slate of fee increases proposed by the Virgin Islands Port Authority.
The new fees will affect businesses, residents and visitors throughout the territory, but they’re likely to have the greatest effect on St. John residents and businesses who depend on ferries and barges for critical services.
Details regarding the fees have not been made available, but VIPA plans to hold meetings on all three islands next week to present its proposals.
The meetings will take place on St. John, St. Thomas, and St. Croix from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on the following dates:
St. John: Oct. 6 at the Cleone Creque Legislative Hall in Cruz Bay.
St. Thomas: Oct. 7 at the VIPA Administrative Building’s conference room at 8074 Lindbergh Bay.
St. Croix: Oct. eight at the Henry E. Rohlsen Airport Terminal, Port Authority conference room on the second floor.
According to Monifa Marrero-Brathwaite, VIPA’s public information officer, the presentations will cover:
Proposed Adjustments to Existing Fees:
Red Hook Barge Ramp Fees
BVI International Per Passenger Ship Dues & Wharfage
Docking Fees
Pilotage Fees
Parking Rates at the Urman V. Fredericks Marine Terminal, Red Hook
Proposed New Fees:
Red Hook Barge Ramp Additional Passenger Fee for Non-Drivers
Cargo Overflow Staging Fee
A paid parking system at VIPA’s parking lot at the Victor Sewer Marine Facility in Cruz Bay. (The lot across from the post office)
Myrtle Barry, a St. John business owner and community activist, wondered whether the Port Authority is truly open to discussing the proposed fees at the meetings. “Is this a public hearing,” she asked, “or has all of this already been decided?”
Barry said increased fees to the ferry and barge companies are likely to be passed on to passengers. “On St. John, we have to travel to St. Thomas to go to a hospital, a courthouse, and to get basic government services. If I’m buying a ferry ticket, won’t the increased port fees be reflected in the price? And if I’m traveling to the BVI, I’m being hit with two more increases, a docking fee and an international passenger fee.”
The Urman V. Fredericks Marine Terminal, Red Hook. (Source photo by Amy H. Roberts)
“The increases will be a burden on all of us,” said Delrise Varlack, general manager of Varlack Ventures, one of two ferry companies that share the franchise for operations between Cruz Bay and Red Hook.
Varlack said she has not seen details of the proposed increases and couldn’t speculate on whether ferry ticket prices would be increased. The Public Services Commission sets the prices for ferry tickets based on a complex set of calculations, she said, and the commission would have to implement a rate investigation if the ferry companies didn’t absorb the fees.
“People will blame the rate increases on us,” she continued. “I know Port Authority needs to generate funding to maintain the facilities, but St. John is seen as a cash cow.”
Passengers from St. Thomas stream off the ferry in Cruz Bay on a morning in 2024. (Source photo by Amy H. Roberts)
Ferry ticket prices vary depending on whether the passenger is a commuter, a resident, a senior or a student. The Education Department currently covers the tickets for students and teachers who commute between St. Thomas and St. John, and Varlack wondered who would be responsible for the additional fee increases for them.
One barge company official also said she didn’t know any details about the proposed rate increases. They haven’t told us anything yet,” said Anecia Sewer, vice president and CEO of Love City Car Ferries. “But St. John doesn’t have a dialysis center or a public high school. I can’t see how the government can do this to the people of St. John,” she said.
Passengers on the ferry from St. Thomas to St. John enjoy a moonrise. (Source photo by Amy H. Roberts)
Sewer said her company has tried to keep barge fares low, but after 15 years at the same rate, Love City Car Ferries raised the round-trip rate from $50 to $65 last year. She said small businesses depend on barges to bring goods from St. Thomas to St. John, so an increase in barge fees would inevitably lead to higher prices for everything from groceries to lumber.
Perhaps most upsetting to St. John residents is the proposal to start charging for parking across the street from the post office at the lot next to the U.S. Customs facility — officially called the Victor Sewer Marine Facility.
When he announced the implementation of parking fees at the gravel lot near the barge terminal in 2019, Carlton Dowe, executive director of the Port Authority, defended the move by saying free short-term parking would remain available at the Customs lot.
Carlton Dowe, executive director of VIPA, addresses an audience at a public meeting on St. John in February 2025. (Source photo by Amy H. Roberts)
VIPA officials say charging for parking at the Victor Sewer Marine terminal lot would benefit St. John residents because people would no longer be able to grab a spot and park for days or weeks at a time. But locals depend on parking — or double parking there — when they run into the post office or wait for passengers who are coming off the ferry.
“There would be no (free) parking left in Cruz Bay!” said Barry. She also opposes the plan to charge for passengers in cars that are transported by barges. “The fee is now based on the car size. Now you’re going inside my car to nickel and dime my passengers? That’s ridiculous,” she added.
No doubt there will be a big turnout for the upcoming meetings, especially the one on St. John on Oct. 6.
Stakeholders can also participate in the meetings via Zoom by registering online at www.viport.com/events. VIPA’s current marine tariff can be downloaded from its website at www.viport.com/rates-statistics. For any questions, please contact the authority’s public relations office at 340-774-1629 ext. 6640 or email info@viport.com.
All McDonald’s locations across the US Virgin Islands will participate in the annual Great Day fundraiser as part of McDonald’s corporate dedication to social responsibility and to support the communities they serve.
Vincent Lamazou, Managing Director of Arcos Dorados Puerto Rico and USVI is enthusiastic about the event. “Our team looks forward to this event all year. We invite everyone to join us to support My Brother’s Workshop. It’s truly a joyful occasion!”
“We’re so grateful that McDonald’s USVI continues to stand with MBW through the Great Day fundraiser. This incredible support helps us keep our doors open and creates life-changing opportunities for young people across the Virgin Islands through mentoring, education, counseling, hands-on training, and job placement.” said Chrystie Payne, MBW Assistant Program Director.
My Brother’s Workshop is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing hope, faith, education and opportunities for at-risk young adults in the US Virgin Islands. The program provides education, on the job training and job placement that has helped over 1,600 young people choose a better path, further their education, and ultimately change their lives.
Purchase a Big Mac from McDonald’s on Oct. 3 to make it a ‘Great Day’ for My Brother’s Workshop and our community. Follow McDonald’s USVI on Facebook for updates and reminders on ‘Great Day’ 2025. 
The proposed fees include: An Additional Passenger Fee for Non-Drivers at the Red Hook Barge Ramp. A Cargo Overflow Staging Fee and A Paid Parking System at the Victor Sewer Marine Facility lot (across from the Cruz Bay Post Office).
Unlike St. Thomas and St. Croix, St. John lacks full-service public infrastructure, including a fully operational fire station, a Human Services office, a Youth and Recreation Center, and medical facilities, among others. Many government departments do not maintain full local offices on St. John, and those that do often operate with limited hours, reduced staff, or restricted services. As a result, residents are often forced to travel to St. Thomas at their own expense for essential services, appointments, and basic necessities.
VIPA’s 2025 Marine Tariff currently exempts cargo transported between St. Thomas and St. John from ship dues and applies reduced wharfage fees—explicitly recognizing the economic and logistical dependency between the two islands. “These exemptions exist for a reason. They acknowledge the hardship,” said Bolques. “So why now are we proposing to reverse course—without any improvement in services?”
Senator Bolques also highlighted that VIPA’s Airline Incentive Program grants 100% landing fee waivers and 50% reductions in terminal and user fees to airlines expanding service into the territory.
Meanwhile, cruise lines receive discounted port dues at St. Croix to boost tourism traffic.
“If VIPA can give generous breaks to billion-dollar airlines and cruise lines, it can afford to treat St. John residents with fairness,” said Bolques. “This kind of imbalance is deeply concerning.”
Here is why the Proposed Fees Are Unfair to St. John Residents
1. Red Hook Barge Ramp – Non-Driver Passenger Fee
· Discriminates against non-drivers, including seniors, young people, low-income residents, and those without access to vehicles.
· No added infrastructure or service improvements—just an extra charge to get on the barge.
· Creates a two-tier travel system that penalizes accessibility. (Vehicle + Passenger)
2. Cargo Overflow Staging Fee
· Raises costs for nearly all goods brought into St. John.
· Hurts small businesses already moving supplies and goods from St. Thomas to St. John
· Residents will pay more for food, fuel, construction materials, and basic essentials—on an island where prices are already the highest.
3. Paid Parking at the Cruz Bay VIPA Lot
· Removes free access to a central location historically used by residents for daily tasks—mail, banking, errands, and ferry transit.
· Targets locals, not tourists or transient traffic.
· Introduces a new cost without any plan for improvements, maintenance, or security.
“VIPA may be meeting with the public, but what we need is a fair plan—one that matches what people pay with the services they actually receive,” said Senator Bolques. “Right now, that balance doesn’t exist. These proposed fees would only make life harder for those who already face the greatest challenges. We should be closing that gap—not making it wider.”
He continued: “Charging a non-driver passenger fee at Red Hook is essentially taxing people for not owning a car. When many residents can’t afford a vehicle, insurance, or the barge fee to begin with, this kind of charge hits the most vulnerable the hardest.”
“I remain committed to standing against any policy that places an unfair burden on our people—especially those in communities that have historically been underserved,” said Senator Bolques. “My focus has always been on equity, access, and accountability. I will continue to fight for fair, lasting solutions that improve the quality of life for all Virgin Islanders and ensure that no one is left behind,” he concluded. 
