New Literary Program at 81C Launches Friday

Mat Probasco
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New Literary Program at 81C Launches Friday
81C is pleased to introduce THE WORDS, an evolving literary platform anchored by a spoken word and open mic series hosted by UVI’s Safa Monsanto, 81C’s Zack Zook, and featured guests.  The inaugural event will take place at 81C’s primary location in downtown Charlotte Amalie on May 22.  THE WORDS is designed as a dynamic and inclusive program that brings together students, educators, and the broader creative community through shared expression. Rooted in an open, authentic, and accessible atmosphere, the series intentionally merges youth participation with general audience engagement—creating a setting where emerging student voices comfortably exist alongside established and first-time performers alike. Through a structured student session ages 10+ (5–7 p.m.), followed by an open general community session (7-10 p.m.), the program establishes a natural continuum between learning, experimentation, and public presentation.  Beyond its role as a recurring event, THE WORDS will serve as a broader literary initiative—positioned as the literary arm of 81C Arts. The open mic series functions as both an anchor and incubator, from which additional programming will grow. This includes open writing workshops, student-centered literary development sessions, and expanded opportunities for educators and community members to engage with the space through language-based creative practice.  A central focus of this initiative is active engagement between student participants and the broader open mic community. By cultivating relationships with educators, schools, and youth programs across the territory, 81C aims to create a consistent pathway for students to participate, perform, and develop within a live cultural environment. These efforts are intended to attract emerging literary voices and provide a meaningful bridge between academic exploration and real-world creative expression, fostering confidence, connection, and growth across generations. In summary, 81C will open its space under THE WORDS umbrella to expand its literary programs and reinforce its mission as a cultural hub and creative art space. We welcome creative collaboration of kinds with educators, University partners, writers, and community leaders in supporting and growing THE WORDS.

Center for Educational Growth Graduates 17

Mat Probasco
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Center for Educational Growth Graduates 17
Seventeen graduates — across St. Thomas, St. Croix, and internationally from Palestine — complete a career-focused, mission-driven academic journey at The Center for Educational Growth “CFEG”, the only Cognia-accredited school in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The “Limitless Class of 2026” closes a year marked by award-winning filmmaking, a student-led yearbook, and a second-place finish at the V.I. Agriculture & Food Fair in CFEG’s first year competing.
Graduates of the Center for Educational Growth, 2026. (Submitted photo)
The Center for Educational Growth, Inc. is proud to announce the graduation of its “Limitless Class of 2026,” with commencement ceremonies that took place on both St. Croix and St. Thomas this weekend — and, simultaneously, three CFEG students graduating internationally from Palestine. The St. Croix ceremony was Saturday, May 16 at Rotary West, St. Croix, and the St. Thomas ceremony was Sunday at Emerald Beach, St. Thomas. Founded in August 2019, CFEG remains the only school in the U.S. Virgin Islands graduating students across each island in the Virgin Islands in a single class, and the only internationally accredited school based in the U.S. Virgin Islands. CFEG holds full accreditation from Cognia, the global education accreditation organization that serves more than 36,000 institutions across 85+ countries, and has been continuously Cognia-accredited since June 30, 2022. For more than five consecutive years, CFEG has been the only school in the U.S. Virgin Islands graduating international students each year — a distinction the school continues to hold and proudly extends with the 2026 class. The “Limitless Class of 2026” totals seventeen graduates — eight from St. Croix and nine from the St. Thomas cohort, three of whom are graduating internationally from Palestine. CFEG opens the door to education for every Virgin Islander — students living on St. Thomas, St. Croix, St. John, and Water Island — and for international learners as well. Through its fully digital school and signature “Direct Your Learning” curriculum, CFEG provides personalized, career-focused education that fast-tracks every student toward a globally recognized high school diploma and toward what comes next. The Class of 2026 reflects that approach: the majority will continue their studies at the University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) in fields that are marketable across jurisdictions including Nursing, Psychology, Biology, Business, Accounting, Process Technology, and Workforce Entrepreneurship, while others step directly into workforce and entrepreneurship pathways here in the Virgin Islands and abroad. THE U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS FIRST DIGITAL SCHOOL WITH INTERNATIONAL REACH AND LOCAL ROOTS CFEG’s Cognia accreditation — the same international standard held by leading schools in more than 85 countries — combined with its fully digital school model and signature “Direct Your Learning” curriculum, makes it possible for the school to serve and graduate students wherever learning takes them, without sacrificing academic rigor or diploma recognition. For more than five consecutive years, CFEG has graduated international students — the only school in the U.S. Virgin Islands to do so, year after year. The Class of 2026 continues that tradition, with three CFEG students graduating from Palestine alongside their classmates here in the Virgin Islands, all sharing in the same “Limitless” Class of 2026. “This is what limitless looks like,” said Sandra Cannon, Director and Founder of the Center for Educational Growth, Inc. “Since 2019, CFEG has opened the doors of education to every Virgin Islander — on St. Thomas, St. Croix, St. John, and Water Island — and to students learning internationally. We remain the only school in the U.S. Virgin Islands graduating students across both major islands in the same class, the only Cognia-accredited school based in the territory, and the only school here that has graduated international students every single year for more than five years. Through our Direct Your Learning curriculum, our students take ownership of their education, fast-track toward their high school diploma, and graduate ready for career, college, and community leadership. These young people are proof that with the right access and the right support, students can rise — no matter where they begin.” A DIGITAL SCHOOL. A DIRECT YOUR LEARNING CURRICULUM. A PATHWAY TO GREATNESS. Since its founding in August 2019, CFEG has provided every Virgin Islander — on St. Thomas, St. Croix, St. John, and Water Island — as well as international students, year-round rolling enrollment, with 365-day access to a fully digital, internationally accredited high school education. CFEG’s signature “Direct Your Learning” curriculum is built around career-focused pathways and personalized pacing, allowing students to fast-track toward their high school diploma and toward what they want to do next: college, career, military, entrepreneurship, or workforce. By removing the geographic and scheduling barriers that have historically limited access to quality high school education in the U.S. Virgin Islands, CFEG ensures that every student — whether on-island or abroad — has a real and viable path to greatness. VALEDICTORIAN, SALUTATORIAN & STUDENTS OF DISTINCTION Leading the Class of 2026 across the stage are Valedictorian Ghazal B. Salem and Salutatorian Dalia Nazar Z. Salem, both of whom will enter UVI’s Nursing Program. Joining them as the school’s recognized Students of Distinction is St. Croix’s Haley Rae Olson (UVI, Psychology), with St. Thomas’s Mahmoud A. Yanes (UVI, Business) and St. Croix’s Antony A. Fredericks (UVI, Process Technology) also featured as honored graduates whose growth, character, and academic commitment exemplify the “Limitless” spirit of the class. ST. THOMAS GRADUATES (6) •Malak J. Ahmad — UVI, Accounting •Shahera H. Bazzar — UVI, Psychology •Abdallah I. Rayyan — Workforce Entrepreneurship •Dalia Nazar Z. Salem — UVI, Nursing — Salutatorian •Ghazal B. Salem — UVI, Nursing — Valedictorian •Mahmoud A. Yanes — UVI, Business INTERNATIONAL GRADUATES — GRADUATING FROM PALESTINE (3) Part of the St. Thomas cohort, these three “Limitless Class of 2026” graduates are completing their CFEG studies internationally from Palestine — made possible by CFEG’s Cognia international accreditation: •Kareem F. Bazzar — Entrepreneurship: Auto Mechanic •Saly M. Bazar — Future plans: Undecided •Rasha M. Bazaar — Future plans: Undecided ST. CROIX GRADUATES (8) •Kaedon Constable — UVI, Process Technology •Antony A. Fredericks — UVI, Process Technology •Keyandre B. Henry — Workforce •Jimiah John-Baptiste — UVI •Bennett N. Knopps — Workforce Entrepreneurship •Haley Rae Olson — UVI, Psychology — Student of Distinction •Hala H. Rahhal — UVI, Biology •Keziah A. Ritter — Nursing A YEAR OF AWARD-WINNING ACCOMPLISHMENT The Class of 2026 graduates against the backdrop of a remarkable schoolwide year. CFEG students earned recognition in filmmaking — building on the school’s award-winning student film work that has given Virgin Islands young people a platform to tell their own stories. The CFEG Yearbook crew documented the year’s growth, service, and friendships in a publication that captures the heart of the school’s community. In a milestone moment for combined digital and hands-on, real-world learning, CFEG’s Agriculture program took home second place at the U.S. Virgin Islands Agriculture & Food Fair in its very first year competing — a powerful testament to what is possible when students are challenged, mentored, and given the tools to lead. DISTINGUISHED CEREMONY PROGRAM Both ceremonies were hosted by Master of Ceremony Attorney Sansara A. Cannon, Esq., with closing remarks delivered by Dr. Marlon Williams. The 2026 Andrew & Adella Scholarship Award will be presented by Mrs. J. Thompson. This year’s motivational speakers reflect CFEG’s commitment to inspiring real-world success and Virgin Islands leadership: •St. Croix Motivational Speaker: Trinity Granger Austrie — UVI alumna, Thurgood Marshall Scholar, and co-founder of Tysam Tech, LLC, the largest USVI-based environmental engineering firm, employing more than 27 local STEM professionals. •St. Thomas Motivational Speaker: Omar Ewen, professionally known as Lystra Omar — Caribbean-born singer, creative leader, and founder of ElevateWi Inc. and WiStudios Creative Hub, which support emerging Virgin Islands creatives. A MESSAGE FROM CFEG LEADERSHIP “The Limitless Class of 2026 reflects exactly what we believe is possible when students are seen, supported, and challenged to grow,” said Board of The Center for Educational Growth, Inc. “From the classroom to the film studio, from the yearbook page to the agriculture fair, this class has shown what student-centered learning can produce. We could not be more proud — and we are deeply grateful to the families, sponsors, and community partners who walked this journey with us.” GRATITUDE FOR SPONSORS & COMMUNITY CFEG extends its deepest appreciation to the sponsors and community partners who help make moments like these possible: •Ocean Point Terminal •Neighborhood Pharmacy •Rotary Club West •Daniel & Jennifer Thomson Foundation •Kenny Leon True Colors Theatre •Heavy Materials LLC (St. Thomas) MEDIA COVERAGE WELCOMED Members of the press are warmly invited to attend either or both graduation ceremonies. Photography and interview opportunities with graduates, families, and CFEG leadership will be available before and after the ceremonies. To coordinate access, interviews, or to request graduate biographies and high-resolution photos, please contact Sansara A. Cannon, CEO, at 340-772-3131 (work), 929-777-1491 (cell), or by email at hrcfeg@usvicfeg.com. ABOUT THE CENTER FOR EDUCATIONAL GROWTH, INC. (CFEG) The Center for Educational Growth, Inc. (CFEG) is a U.S. Virgin Islands digital school committed to empowering students through personalized, career-focused education that fosters academic excellence, character, creativity, and real-world readiness. Founded in August 2019 by Director and Founder Sandra Cannon and led by CEO Sansara A. Cannon, CFEG is the only Cognia-accredited school based in the U.S. Virgin Islands — continuously accredited since June 30, 2022. CFEG is also the only school in the territory graduating students simultaneously across the Virgin Islands, and internationally, and the only U.S. Virgin Islands school to graduate international students every year for more than five consecutive years. CFEG opens the door to education for every Virgin Islander — on St. Thomas, St. Croix, St. John, and Water Island — and for learners abroad. Through its signature “Direct Your Learning” curriculum, CFEG provides every student with a high-quality, fast-tracked path to a globally respected high school diploma and to college, career, and community leadership. Serving grades 8 through 12, CFEG partners with families and communities to help every student grow, lead, and succeed. To learn more, visit usvicfeg.com or read “Our Story” at usvicfeg.com/our-story. ABOUT COGNIA Cognia is a global, non-profit accreditation and improvement organization that serves more than 36,000 schools, districts, and education systems in 85+ countries. Cognia’s accreditation — formerly known as AdvancED — is recognized as a hallmark of rigor and continuous improvement in K–12 education worldwide. Cognia’s public accreditation registry lists the Center for Educational Growth, Inc. as a fully accredited institution headquartered at 70-71 E Queen Street, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands.

In the Matter of the Estate of Joseph Emanuel Allen, Deceased

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IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE VIRGIN ISLANDS DIVISION OF ST. CROIX

 
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JOSEPH EMANUEL ALLEN a/k/a JOSEPH E. ALLEN, SR. Deceased. SX-2020-PB-00021 TESTAMENTARY ADMINISTRATION
 

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

            NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a probate proceeding has been filed for the ESTATE OF JOSEPH EMANUEL ALLEN, a/k/a JOSEPH E. ALLEN, SR.  All persons having claims against the Estate are required to file such claims, along with proper vouchers duly verified by Affidavit, with the Superior Court of the Virgin Islands Division of St. Croix, or Gertrude LeCointe., Esq., Attorney for the Estate, Law Offices of Gertrude LeCointe, P.O. Box 224349, Christiansted, V.I. 00822, within six (6) months from the date hereof.  All persons indebted to the Estate should make prompt payment to the ESTATE OF ESTATE OF JOSEPH EMANUEL ALLEN a/k/a JOSEPH E. ALLEN, SR., in care of the undersigned attorney.

Respectfully submitted, Dated: May 18, 2026             /s/ Gertrude LeCointe Gertrude LeCointe, Esquire Attorney for the Estate and Petitioners P.O. Box 224349 Christiansted, V.I. 00822

Make It Happen Foundation’s First Scholarship Recipient Graduates From Howard University

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Make It Happen Foundation’s First Scholarship Recipient Graduates From Howard University
 
 

Notice of Intent to Request Release of Funds

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NOTICE OF INTENT TO REQUEST RELEASE OF FUNDS

 May 18, 2026  Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority 3202 Demarara Plaza, Suite 200 St. Thomas, VI, 00802-6477 (340)777-4HFA(4432)

On or about May 25, 2026 the Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority  will submit a request to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the release of Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Recovery (Electrical Grid) funds under Title 1 of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, (PL93-383), as amended, to undertake the following project:

Program/Project Title: Electrical Power System Improvement/Feeder 11 & 12 Rebuild

Project Description: The Feeder 11 and 12 Rebuild project aims to significantly improve the reliability of the 34.5kV transmission system on the islands of St. Thomas and St. John. Of note, although the project will have beneficial impact on both islands, the work will solely happen on the island of St. Thomas. The transmission line L3-0A0B1, also known as Feeder 11, was permanently damaged during Hurricane Maria leaving only two out of three transmission lines active on the island. Over the past six years, this has caused extreme stress on the two active transmission lines and has eliminated the level of redundancy that was present when all three lines were active. The present-day condition of having two active transmission lines, one of which being the now deteriorating transmission line L3-0A0B2 (feeder 12), has resulted in multiple disruptions of power to the residents of St. Thomas and St. John. This project was created by the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (VIWAPA) to aid in reducing the frequency and duration of power outages by providing a level of resiliency for the St. Thomas and St. John grid. The replacement of Feeders 11 and 12 will improve the operations of the existing grid, allowing for more efficient power flow and reduced energy consumption. Additionally, expanding on the current transmission infrastructure can enhance the grid’s resilience to extreme weather events and other disruptions, ensuring that electricity remains available when needed the most. The proposed project will have minimal impact on flood zones. Several of the existing manholes along the low-lying areas of Veteran’s Drive will likely need to be pumped out on multiple occasions in order to accommodate cable removal, cable termination and cable testing efforts.

Location: St. Thomas, USVI, 00802

Estimated Project Cost: The total HUD funding and estimated project cost is $13,341,775.48, fully funded by HUD through the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) – Electrical Power Systems Improvement (CDBG-EGRID) Program under Grant Number B-18-DE-78-0001.

 
Grant Number HUD Program Funding Amount
B-18-DE-78-0001 CDBG-EG $13,341,775.48
   
Law, Authority, or Factor Mitigation Measure
Coastal Zone Management   Coastal Zone Management Act, sections 307(c) & (d) To remain compliant with local regulations, dewatering of manholes must be done via dewatering bags or surrounded by absorbent pads and hay bales. No direct discharges are allowed to storm inlets or the ocean.
Permitting WAPA is required to obtain all necessary permits to implement the project where applicable.
 

The activities proposed are categorically excluded under HUD regulations at 24 CFR Part 58 from National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requirements. An Environmental Review Record (ERR) that documents the environmental determinations for this project is on file at the Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority, 3202 Demarara Plaza, Suite 200, St. Thomas, VI 00802-6447, Attention Ms. Dayna Clendinen, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Disaster Recovery Officer, or via email at environmental@vihfa.gov.  and may be examined or copied weekdays 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

Any individual, group, or agency may submit written comments on the ERR to the Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority, 3202 Demarara Plaza, Suite 200, St. Thomas, VI 00802-6447, Attention Ms. Dayna Clendinen, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Disaster Recovery Officer, or via email at environmental@vihfa.gov.  All comments received by May 25, 2026, will be considered by the Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority prior to authorizing submission of a request for release of funds.

 ENVIRONMENTAL CERTIFICATION

 The Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority certifies to HUD that Ms. Dayna Clendinen in her capacity as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Disaster Recovery Officer consents to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal Courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities in relation to the environmental review process and that these responsibilities have been satisfied.  HUD’s approval of the certification satisfies its responsibilities under NEPA and related laws and authorities and allows the Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority to use Program funds.

 OBJECTIONS TO RELEASE OF FUNDS

 HUD will accept objections to its release of fund and the Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority certification for a period of fifteen days following the anticipated submission date or its actual receipt of the request (whichever is later) only if they are on one of the following bases: (a) the certification was not executed by the Certifying Officer of the Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority; (b) the Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority has omitted a step or failed to make a decision or finding required by HUD regulations at 24 CFR part 58; (c) the grant recipient or other participants in the development process have committed funds, incurred costs or undertaken activities not authorized by 24 CFR Part 58 before approval of a release of funds by HUD; or (d) another Federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1504 has submitted a written finding that the project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of environmental quality.  Objections must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the required procedures (24 CFR Part 58, Sec. 58.76) and shall be addressed to HUD at U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development at HUD Caribbean Area Office, Region VI, 235 Federico Costa Street, Suite 200, Parque Las Américas I Building, San Juan, Puerto Rico, 00918. Potential objectors should contact HUD to verify the actual last day of the objection period.

  Sincerely, Dayna Clendinen Chief Operating Officer and Chief Disaster Recovery Officer Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority  

AVISO DE INTENCIÓN DE SOLICITAR LA LIBERACIÓN DE FONDOS

El mayo 18, 2026

  Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority 3202 Demarara Plaza, Suite 200 St. Thomas, VI, 00802-6477 (340)777-4HFA(4432)  

El mayo 25, 2026 o o después, la Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority presentará una

solicitud al Departamento de Vivienda y Desarrollo Urbano (HUD) en los Estados

Unidos para la liberación del fundos del Programa de Subvención en Bloque de Desarrollo Comunitario – Programa de Recuperación ante Desastres (Red Eléctrica) bajo el Título 1 de la Ley de Vivienda y Desarrollo Comunitario de 1974, (PL93-383), en su forma enmendada, para llevar a cabo:

Título del Programa/Proyecto: Electrical Power System Improvement/Feeder 11 & 12 Rebuild

Descripción del Proyecto: El proyecto de Feeder 11 y 12 Rebuild tiene un objetivo mejorar significativamente la fiabilidad del sistema de transmisión de 34.5 kV en las islas de Santo Tomás y San Juan. Cabe destacar que, aunque el proyecto tendrá un impacto beneficioso en ambas islas, el trabajo se realizará únicamente en la isla de Santo Tomás. La línea de transmisión L3-0A0B1, también conocida como Feeder 11, fue dañada permanentemente durante el huracán María dejando solo dos de las tres líneas de transmisión activas en la isla. En los últimos seis años, esto ha causado una tensión extrema en las dos líneas de transmisión activas y ha eliminado el nivel de redundancia que estaba presente cuando las tres líneas estaban activas. La condición actual de tener dos líneas de transmisión activas, una de las cuales es la ahora deteriorada línea de transmisión L3-0A0B2 (alimentador 12), ha dado lugar a múltiples interrupciones de energía para los residentes de Santo Tomás y San Juan. Este proyecto fue creado por la Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (VIWAPA) para ayudar a reducir la frecuencia y la duración de los cortes de energía, proporcionando un nivel de resistencia a la red de St. Thomas y St. John. La sustitución de los Feeders 11 y 12 mejorará las operaciones de la red existente, permitiendo un flujo de energía más eficiente y un consumo de energía reducido. Además, la expansión de la infraestructura de transmisión actual puede mejorar la resiliencia de la red a eventos climáticos extremos y otras interrupciones, asegurando que la electricidad permanezca disponible cuando más se necesita. El proyecto propuesto tendrá un impacto mínimo en las zonas de inundación. Varias de las alcantarillas existentes a lo largo de las áreas bajas de Veteran’s Drive probablemente necesitarán ser bombeadas en múltiples ocasiones con el fin de acomodar la extracción de cables, terminación de cables y esfuerzos de prueba de cables.

Locación: St. Thomas, USVI, 00802

Costo Estimado del Proyecto: El total de la financiación del HUD y el costo estimado del

proyecto es de $13,341,775.48, financiado en su totalidad por el HUD a través del Programa de

Subvención en Bloque de Desarrollo Comunitario – Programa de Recuperación ante Desastres (CDBG-DR) – Programa de Mejora de los Sistemas Eléctricos de Energía (CDBG-EGRID) bajo la Subvención Número B-18-DE-78-0001.

 
Número del Subsidio Nombre del Proyecto Programa de HUD Monto de Financiación
B-18-DE-78-0001 Feeder 11 & 12 Rebuild CDBG-EG $13,341,775.48
 

Las actividades propuestas están categóricamente excluidas bajo las regulaciones del HUD en el 24 CFR Parte 58 de los requisitos de la Ley Nacional de Política Ambiental (NEPA). Información adicional sobre el proyecto se encuentra en el Registro de Revisión Ambiental (ERR) en los archivos de la Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority a 3202 Demarara Plaza, Suite 200, St. Thomas, VI 00802-6447, Atención Sra. Dayna Clendinen, Oficial de Operaciones y Oficial de Recuperación de Desastres o por correo electrónico a environmental@vihfa.gov. El ERR también puede ser examinado o copiado los días laborables de 8AM a 5PM.

eder 11 and 12 Rebuild deben cumplir con las siguientes medidas de mitigación para garantizar que se mantengan en regla con las normativas medioambientales de HUD y VIHFA.

Ley, Autoridad, o Factor Medida de Mitigación
Ley de Gestión de Zonas Costeras Ley de Gestión de Zonas Costeras, secciones 307(c) y (d) Para seguir cumpliendo con las regulaciones locales, la deshidratación de las alcantarillas debe hacerse a través de bolsas de deshidratación o rodeado de almohadillas absorbentes y balas de heno. No se permiten descargas directas para hacer tormentas en las entradas o en el océano.
Licencias WAPA debe obtener todos los permisos necesarios para llevar a cabo el proyecto cuando sea aplicable.
  COMENTARIOS PÙBLICOS

Cualquier individuo, grupo o agencia puede presentar o enviar a comentarios por escrito sobre el

ERR a la Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority, 3202 Demarara Plaza, Suite 200, St. Thomas, VI 00802-6447, Atención Sra. Dayna Clendinen, Directora de Operaciones y Directora de Recuperación ante Desastres o por correo electrónico a environmental@vihfa.gov. Todos los comentarios recibidos por del 25 de mayo de 2026 serán considerados por la Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority antes de autorizar la presentación de una solicitud de liberación de fondos.

 CERTIFICACIÓN MEDIOAMBIENTAL

La Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority certifica a HUD que la Sra. Dayna Clendinen en su capacidad de Directora de Operaciones y Directora de Recuperación ante Desastres consiente en aceptar la jurisdicción de los Tribunales Federales si una acción se presenta para hacer cumplir las responsabilidades en relación con el proceso de revisión ambiental y que estas responsabilidades han sido satisfechas. La aprobación de la certificación por parte de HUD satisface sus responsabilidades bajo de NEPA y las leyes y autoridades relacionadas y permite a la Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority utilizar los fondos del Programa.

OBJECIONES A LA LIBERACIÓN DE FONDOS

HUD aceptará objeciones a su liberación de fondos y a la certificación de la Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority durante un período de quince días después de la fecha de presentación anticipada o de la recepción real de la solicitud (lo que ocurra más tarde) solo si se basan en una de las siguientes bases: (a) la certificación no fue ejecutada por el Oficial Certificador de la Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority; (b) la Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority ha omitido un paso o no ha tomado una decisión o hallazgo requerido por las regulaciones de HUD en 24 CFR parte 58; (c) el beneficiario de la subvención u otros participantes en el proceso de desarrollo han comprometido fondos, incurrido en costos o realizado actividades no autorizadas por 24 CFR Parte 58 antes de la aprobación de una liberación de fondos por parte de HUD; o (d) otra agencia federal que actúe de conformidad con 40 CFR Parte 1504 ha presentado una determinación por escrito de que el proyecto es insatisfactorio desde el punto de vista de la calidad ambiental. Las objeciones deben prepararse y presentarse de acuerdo con los procedimientos requeridos (24 CFR Parte 58, Sec. 58.76) y deberán dirigirse a HUD en la Oficina de HUD en el Caribe, Región VI, 235 Calle Federico Costa, Suite 200, Edificio Parque Las Américas I, San Juan, Puerto Rico, 00918. Los posibles objetores deben comunicarse con HUD para verificar el último día real del período de objeción.

Sinceramente, Dayna Clendinen Oficial Certificadora, Principal Agente de Operaciones, Principal Agente de Recuperación de Desastres Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority

Flights to Forever Homes: Pets With Wings’ First Gala Raises Funds for New Beginnings

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Flights to Forever Homes: Pets With Wings’ First Gala Raises Funds for New Beginnings
Oceana Restaurant & Bistro was transformed Saturday evening for the first-ever Pets With Wings gala, creating an elegant setting for a night dedicated to supporting animal rescue efforts in the Virgin Islands. (Ananta Pancham photo)

There was a moment Saturday night at Oceana Restaurant & Bistro when the stories began to stack on top of each other.

A dog rescued from a collapsing building in St. Louis and lowered down a ladder from a third-story window. A once-unwanted island puppy now sleeping on a couch somewhere in the mainland United States. A cat carried nervously through TSA by a volunteer traveler who may never even see the animal again after landing. A giant transport operation involving customs clearances, overnight boarding in Puerto Rico, and rescue partners converging “like Spider-Man,” as one organizer described it, from multiple states to meet dogs arriving from St. Thomas.

And at the center of all of it was the first-ever Pets With Wings Gala, held Saturday evening overlooking the water at Oceana — an elegant fundraiser built around an increasingly urgent reality: there are simply more homeless animals on St. Thomas than there are homes to take them in.

Guests at the first-ever Pets With Wings gala were treated to a night full of surprises, including throwback ’80s music and a vintage candy bar that quickly became a favorite part of the evening. (Ananta Pancham photo)

For a first-year event, the response itself reflected just how deeply the mission has resonated across the community. The gala sold out with nearly 130 guests in attendance, bringing together rescue volunteers, foster families, veterinarians, donors, rescue partners, and longtime animal advocates for an evening focused not only on fundraising, but on the enormous network of people required to move island animals toward second chances.

“We’re flying animals out almost every day,” said Pets With Wings Treasurer Annette Zachman during the event. “Most of the smaller animals travel under the seat of the plane. The bigger dogs sometimes have to wait a little longer, which means foster care, medical care, transport coordination — all of it costs money. But there are so many passionate animal-loving people here who keep this going.”

The evening marked a milestone for the organization, which celebrated its two-year anniversary as an independent nonprofit after previously operating under the Humane Society of St. Thomas-St. John. In remarks to guests, President Rhea Vasconcellos reflected on how quickly the rescue effort had grown from placing “two or three dogs” in its earliest days into a fully volunteer-run organization now responsible for transporting hundreds of animals to rescue partners and adoptive homes throughout the mainland United States.

Pets with wings President Rhea Vasconcellos said since its inception, the organization has saved the lives of more than 900 pets. (Ananta Pancham photo)

Since becoming an independent nonprofit in 2024, Vasconcellos said Pets With Wings has helped transport approximately 950 animals off-island — including more than 600 from the Humane Society of St. Thomas, over 200 from the Kitten Fight Club rescue network, and additional animals from private fosters and community rescues.

The work itself is staggering in scale.

According to figures included in the gala program, a single large transport carrying up to 25 dogs can cost between $10,000 and $15,000, not including ground transportation costs that can add another $4,000 to $6,000. Those transports often involve dogs flying first to Puerto Rico, clearing customs, staying overnight, boarding cargo flights through Amerijet to Miami or New Jersey, and then being driven north in specially equipped rescue vans to shelters and foster networks across the country.

“It’s kind of like Spider-Man,” Zachman laughed. “Everybody’s coming at different angles and then meeting to pick up the animals.”

Inside Oceana, however, the tone of the night balanced urgency with celebration. Guests arrived to a red carpet cocktail hour overlooking the harbor before moving into a transformed dining room featuring floral installations, silent auction displays, live music, paddle raises, and speeches honoring the volunteers, rescue partners, veterinarians, foster families, and travelers who make the organization function almost entirely through donated labor and coordination.

For Oceana owner Patricia LaCorte – who stayed working throughout the evening – the event was deeply personal. (Ananta Pancham photo)

For Oceana owner Patricia LaCorte, who donated the venue and closed the restaurant for the evening, the gala became deeply personal.

“I was aware of Pets With Wings before, but you’re not really aware until you see what it takes,” she said. “The orchestration, the flights, customs, the rescues waiting on the other side — it’s mind boggling.”

LaCorte became closely involved with the organization while trying to help secure transport for a large dog named Mafolie, which she not only rescued, but fostered until she found her forever home away. That experience, she said, changed her understanding of the rescue process entirely.

“I thought to myself, I really want to support this organization,” she said. “And so here we are.”

That support network now stretches far beyond the Virgin Islands.

Saturday’s gala brought together rescue partners from multiple mainland organizations, including Stray Rescue of St. Louis and Midwest Small Breed Rescue in Michigan — groups that have collectively helped relocate hundreds of Virgin Islands animals over the last decade.

Cassady Caldwell of Stray Rescue of St. Louis said her organization alone has taken in more than 1,000 animals from the Virgin Islands over the years.

“Every shelter everywhere is completely overrun with animals,” Caldwell said. “But St. Louis has really developed a soft spot for the island babies.”

Cynthia Tewes, executive director of Midwest Small Breed Rescue, said her rescue has partnered with Virgin Islands transport efforts for roughly 10 years, frequently traveling to the territory herself and bringing back multiple dogs at a time.

“There’s just not enough people here to adopt the amount of animals that are here,” she said. “So we have to give them a chance.”

Bidding throughout the evening was focused on pet transport costs, which amount to about $15,000 per run. (Ananta Pancham photo)

Much of that work also depends on travelers — ordinary people willing to escort animals on commercial flights. Melissa King, who coordinates feline transports for Pets With Wings while also operating the Kitten Fight Club rescue network, said she has personally helped relocate hundreds of cats since first volunteering in 2020.

“I realized the cats were getting left behind,” King said. “And I basically threw a fit and said, ‘This isn’t fair. Why aren’t we sending cats at the same rate as dogs?’”

Today, Pets With Wings works with approximately 15 rescue partners specifically for feline placements, including organizations in Chicago, Washington D.C., and elsewhere that specialize entirely in cat rescue.

Throughout the evening, speakers repeatedly emphasized that the organization remains entirely volunteer-driven — with no paid salaries, no office, and few permanent resources beyond community support and an enormous network of fosters, rescue coordinators, transporters, and donors.

“We have no salaries, no office, no vehicles,” Vasconcellos told attendees. “Every dollar goes directly toward transporting animals.”

Still, even amid the gala atmosphere, organizers acknowledged the deeper challenge facing the territory: overpopulation, limited housing options for pets, and the continuing need for spay and neuter programs across the islands.

“There’s just not enough room,” Zachman said plainly. “People really need to spay and neuter their animals. Otherwise, it never stops.”

And yet by the end of the evening — as guests bid on artwork, island stays, jewelry, dining experiences, and rescue fundraisers donated by businesses and supporters throughout the Virgin Islands community — the feeling inside Oceana was not despair.

It was momentum, created by a restaurant full of people determined to keep finding flights, fosters, homes, and second chances for animals that, without organizations like Pets With Wings, might never have had one at all.

Crucian Designer Brittany Dawson Launches ‘Curve Swim’ Line

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Crucian Designer Brittany Dawson Launches ‘Curve Swim’ Line
Crucian entrepreneur Brittany Dawson says her upcoming swimwear brand, Curve Swim, was inspired by the confidence, beauty, and energy of the Caribbean women she grew up around on St. Croix. (Submitted photo)
After two years of development, Crucian-born entrepreneur Brittany Dawson is preparing the launch of Curve Swim, a new swimwear line designed specifically for women with curves. The brand draws directly from her experience growing up on St. Croix and addresses what she identifies as a persistent gap in the swimwear market.
Dawson describes beach life on St. Croix not as recreational but as foundational. “The beach was never just somewhere we visited. It was part of our life style, our celebrations, our healing, and our freedom. Some of my best memories are tied to the ocean, family gatherings, carnival season, boat rides, music, and simply existing in the Caribbean sun,” said Dawson.
However, the same environment highlighted a mismatch between the bodies she saw around her and the swimwear available for purchase. “I remember how difficult swimwear shopping could feel as a curvier woman,” said Dawson. She notes that the industry has historically presented a narrow beauty standard, leaving curvier consumers with limited options, often prioritizing coverage over celebration.
The designer points to the women she grew up around as the true inspiration for the line. “Island women are bold, beautiful, soft, strong, unapologetically thick, athletic, and feminine all at once. I wanted Curve Swim to reflect the women I grew up around and the energy we naturally carry in the Caribbean,” she added.
Curve Swim has been in development for over two years, a timeline Dawson attributes to the complexity of designing for curves without compromise. The process involved multiple rounds of fabric research, sample redesigns, and fit testing. “Every fabric has to stretch properly, support curves properly, and still feel luxurious against the skin,” said Dawson.
When asked which aspect of the development process proved the more difficult, Dawson identifies the emotional toll first. “Building something from scratch that you deeply believe in is vulnerable. There are moments where you question yourself, your timing, your decisions, and whether people will truly understand your vision,” she shared. Financial constraints ranked a close second, given the costs associated with custom sample production.
Dawson has balanced the venture alongside work, school, and other real-life responsibilities throughout the two-year development period. “I kept thinking about the women who would finally feel seen in these pieces. I kept thinking about younger versions of ourselves who deserved to feel beautiful at the beach without insecurity attached to it”, said Dawson.
While Curve Swim is positioned for international growth, Dawson has embedded subtle references to her home island throughout the collection. Color selections draw from specific natural and cultural touch points including the deep blue waters, orange sunsets, tropical florals, and the energy of Carnival culture reflected in the logo. “St. Croix and Caribbean culture are woven into the brand, because this is who I am,” she said.
Future plans include additional collections, collaborations, pop-up events, and opportunities for Caribbean creatives including models, photographers, and influencers to participate in the brand’s growth. “These aren’t just swim pieces to me. These are curated pieces for every body”, said Dawson.
Curve Swim has opened a VIP sign-up list limited to 500 people. Those on the list will have an opportunity to purchase at pre-sale prices before public availability. The first collection is scheduled to release later this year and sign up can occur at https://curveswimco.com/.
Dawson frames the launch as a professional milestone and a personal commitment. “I decided to step out and share so I would stop being afraid of it not being received well or failing. This is such a risk and step into an entire new world for me. So if everyone knows, I have no choice but to see it through,” she said.

From St. Thomas to Harvard, Tulane, and Beyond: VIMSIA Seniors Celebrate Next Chapters

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From St. Thomas to Harvard, Tulane, and Beyond: VIMSIA Seniors Celebrate Next Chapters
Members of the Virgin Islands Montessori School & Peter Gruber International Academy’s Class of 2026 are celebrating a wide range of next steps that include Ivy League universities, NCAA athletics, prestigious scholarship programs, and international study opportunities. (Submitted photo)

For the Class of 2026 at the Virgin Islands Montessori School & Peter Gruber International Academy, last Wednesday’s Senior Signing Day on St. Thomas felt less like a ceremony about destinations and more like a reflection on the journeys that brought students there.

Held on the VIMSIA campus alongside families, teachers, classmates, and friends, the afternoon celebrated a graduating class heading to an extraordinary range of next steps — from Harvard University and Tulane University to the United States Coast Guard Academy, NCAA athletics, engineering partnerships, and international study programs. But throughout the event, what stood out most was how often students returned to the same themes: community, resilience, friendship, and the people who helped shape them along the way.

This year’s class includes students earning nationally competitive scholarships and appointments, including Kaden Fisher, who received Tulane University’s prestigious Stamps Scholarship — one of the nation’s top undergraduate awards, covering full cost of attendance, research opportunities, study abroad, and more. Meanwhile, Ellis Wisehart earned an appointment to the United States Coast Guard Academy, where she plans to study marine and environmental sciences while continuing her sailing career on the academy’s Division I team.

For Zia Zucker, who will attend Harvard University to study Government on a public policy track, VIMSIA became far more than a school over the years. A National Merit Scholarship semifinalist, Zucker reflected on experiences ranging from Student Council and sailing to CyberPatriot, Global Politics classes, and international end-session programs that helped broaden her perspective and shape the person she hopes to become.

Other students spoke just as passionately about discovering new parts of themselves during their time at VIMSIA.

Amorae Alexander, who will begin studying accounting and finance at Emory University’s Oxford College, said the school community helped her grow after relocating from the British Virgin Islands following the 2017 hurricanes. Alongside academics, she discovered a love for theatre, participated in basketball and cross-country, and took on leadership roles including Student Council Treasurer.

Cristabel Medina Tavarez, who plans to attend Nova Southeastern University with hopes of eventually becoming a pediatrician, reflected on balancing the rigor of the IB Diploma Programme while discovering a passion for dance that became an important creative outlet during high school.

Meanwhile, Amorie Carty will head to Shaw University to study journalism and sports media while competing as an NCAA Division II soccer player — combining two passions he hopes to carry into a future career covering professional soccer. Tristan Farrington, who plans to study accounting at Florida A&M University, described his VIMSIA experience as both academically demanding and deeply grounding, shaped as much by IB coursework and Global Politics discussions as by growing up surrounded by the culture, people, and natural beauty of the Virgin Islands.

Again and again throughout the afternoon, students spoke about the relationships they built during their years at VIMSIA — with many noting that the school’s small size became one of its greatest strengths.

“I have been to several schools, and I can say that the PGIA is like no other,” Fisher reflected. “The community and support systems are unmatched.”

Wisehart echoed that feeling, describing a class environment where students constantly challenged and pushed one another to succeed. “I grew alongside people who pushed me to be better,” she said.

That closeness perhaps feels especially meaningful for this year’s graduating class because, according to the school, nearly half of the seniors have been part of the VIMSIA community since their Toddler and Primary years.

In remarks included in the school’s release, Head of School Gloria Arpasi described the Class of 2026 as “academically driven, thoughtful and kind in their actions, and dedicated to service to their community.”

“As they move onto their post high school pursuits,” Arpasi added, “they will contribute significantly to this world. The Virgin Islands has grown these brilliant, resilient young humans, and will be better off due to their presence and hard work.”

And by the end of the afternoon, as families gathered for photos and students hugged classmates they had grown up beside for years, the ceremony felt like more than a celebration of acceptances or scholarships: it felt like the closing chapter of a community that, for many of these students, has helped shape nearly their entire lives.

Woman Accused of Abusing Mother Suffering From Severe Dementia

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Woman Accused of Abusing Mother Suffering From Severe Dementia
The daughter of a St. Thomas woman suffering from Alzheimer’s-related dementia allegedly used her mother’s finances for personal gain while failing to provide proper care, leaving the woman dirty, malnourished, and living in unsanitary conditions, according to Attorney General Gordon Rhea.

Henrietta Harlow allegedly took control of nearly $133,770 in cash and other assets belonging to her mother, along with the victim’s two-story home, through a durable power of attorney after the victim was no longer capable of independently managing her financial or personal affairs. Prosecutors allege that instead of using those resources to care for her mother, Harlow arranged regular payments to herself from the victim’s account while failing to provide adequate supervision, hygiene, nutrition, medical care, and safe living conditions as the victim experienced significant and progressive cognitive decline.

“Investigators further determined that the defendant allegedly refused to purchase or pay for basic necessities for the victim, including hygiene items, food, clean bedding, clothing, and caregiving assistance, despite having access to and control over the victim’s funds and property,” prosecutors said in a written statement. “Witness statements further reflected that the victim was at times left hungry and without adequate food in the home, requiring Homemakers aides and other Department of Human Services personnel to purchase food and basic necessities for the victim using their own personal funds.”

Harlow faces charges of criminal neglect of an older or dependent adult, financial abuse of an older or dependent adult, and financial exploitation of an older or dependent adult — all felonies carrying possible prison sentences ranging from three to 14 years.

Court records detailing the case against Harlow, including whether she has entered a plea, had not been uploaded to the Superior Court website as of Sunday afternoon.

Rhea said investigators received deeply troubling accounts from witnesses describing the victim’s condition.

“[The victim] was lying on a bed in a compromised physical state, appearing stiff and unable to move properly. The sleeping area was unsanitary, with food debris, ants and other contaminants present on and around the bed,” according to the statement.

Another out-of-territory family member reported that the victim was at times found lying on a mattress without sheets, in urine-soaked conditions, and unable to move without assistance.

Investigators also determined that the victim developed serious bodily injuries, including pressure ulcers and significant physical deterioration, while dependent on Harlow for care and while Harlow maintained control over the victim’s finances, according to the Department of Justice.

“The Virgin Islands Department of Justice remains committed to protecting elderly and vulnerable adults from abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation,” Rhea said. “Individuals who exploit positions of trust for personal gain while placing vulnerable persons at risk of harm will be held accountable.”

It was not immediately clear when Harlow might next appear in court.

Weekly Weather Forecast With Jesse Daley

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Weekly Weather Forecast With Jesse Daley
Check out our weekly weather forecast with Jesse Daley, covering Sunday, May 17, through Saturday, May 23. Please stay safe and follow the Source for more weather updates!
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