From Cannabis to Consumer Protection, Agencies Defend Budget Hikes as Operations Expand

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From Cannabis to Consumer Protection, Agencies Defend Budget Hikes as Operations Expand
Agency heads testify before the Senate Wednesday on budget priorities ranging from cannabis regulation to cybersecurity and consumer protection. (Photo by the VI Legislature)

With the territory’s cannabis industry expanding, cybersecurity threats evolving, and consumer protections under increasing pressure, top officials from four government agencies appeared before the Senate this week to defend their FY 2026 budget requests—most of which include hikes aimed at staffing, enforcement, and modernization.

The Office of Cannabis Regulation, which would receive the largest relative increase, is requesting $1.64 million for the upcoming fiscal year—$1.44 million from the General Fund and $200,000 from the Tourism Advertising Revolving Fund (TARF). That’s up more than $500,000 over FY 2025, as the agency transitions from what Executive Director Joanne Moorehead called a “start-up phase” into a full-fledged regulator overseeing the licensing of cultivation and dispensary operations, along with education, enforcement, and the rollout of a seed-to-sale tracking system.

The bulk of the new money will support salaries for three new positions and continued development of enforcement tools. Since last year, OCR has grown from one to six employees and launched a medical and sacramental use registry, opened cultivation and dispensary license applications, and received 26 submissions so far. Moorehead told lawmakers the office has also collected over $103,000 in fees to date.

“The cannabis industry is new, heavily scrutinized, and unlike any other in the territory,” Moorehead testified. “This budget gives us the tools to regulate it effectively, keep the public informed, and ensure our decisions are data-driven and grounded in health and safety.”

The Office used more than $616,000 in TARF funding in FY 2025 to outfit offices, purchase law enforcement vehicles, build digital infrastructure, and support national training for local staff. In FY 2026, additional TARF resources will be used to expand the seed-to-sale tracking system and bolster inter-island compliance.

OCR’s testimony drew questions from lawmakers, including Sen. Novelle Francis Jr., who pressed for more transparency on salary levels and funding allocations. “We want to support your mission,” he said, “but we also need full disclosure on where the money is going before the budget process closes.”

Francis, who chairs the Committee on Budget, Appropriations, and Finance, also fielded testimony from the Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs (DLCA), which is requesting $6.67 million in FY 2026—$5.87 million from the General Fund and $800,000 from the Consumer Protection Fund (CPF). That’s nearly $1 million more than last year, with the increase tied to boosting personnel and public outreach, modernizing enforcement, and launching new studies on local pricing and licensing.

DLCA Commissioner Nathalie Hodge said the agency’s work touches every corner of the economy. In FY 2025, DLCA processed over 8,200 business licenses and collected $3.1 million in fees, up slightly from the previous year. More than 180 consumer complaints were resolved, resulting in over $16,800 in restitution, while enforcement actions yielded more than $100,000 in fines.

“Our work is about fairness, transparency, and giving consumers confidence,” Hodge said. “This budget allows us to increase visibility, expand after-hours enforcement, and build a better regulatory environment.”

Much of DLCA’s funding—$3.27 million—would go toward salaries and $1.55 million to fringe benefits. The rest supports rent, supplies, public information campaigns, and professional services. New initiatives include updating the fee structure for business licenses, completing cost-of-living and fuel price studies, and restructuring the way short-term rentals are monitored and regulated.

Meanwhile, the Bureau of Information Technology (BIT) asked for $12.3 million—its largest request to date—to support ongoing cybersecurity upgrades, critical infrastructure development, and staffing for 29 positions. Director and Chief Information Officer Rupert Ross said the bureau’s work underpins every government agency’s ability to function.

“In FY 2025, we rolled out ServiceNow to more than 3,700 users, helped manage cybersecurity threats using Microsoft Defender and Sentinel, and continued building the $160 million Land Mobile Radio system to support first responders,” Ross testified. “We’ve made real progress—but we need to stay vigilant, and that means sustained investment.”

BIT’s request includes funding for enterprise tools, software licenses, training programs, and additional technical positions. Among the bureau’s goals are consolidating outdated systems, completing the LMR buildout, and safeguarding citizen data through strengthened network defenses.

Senators raised concerns about delayed hiring and project execution, to which Ross responded by pointing to “market demand for qualified IT professionals” and government procurement processes that lengthen timelines. Still, Ross emphasized that BIT had already saved the government money by leveraging shared tools and reducing agency redundancies.

The final testimony came from Marvin Pickering, Chair and CEO of the Casino Control Commission, who requested $1.72 million—a lump sum allocation to support 17 positions and help launch internet gambling operations. Pickering reported $112,750 in license and permit fees collected so far this fiscal year, along with $381,299 in casino revenue taxes—up 35 percent from FY 2024.

Pickering also noted a clean FY 2022 audit, correction of a prior finding, and ongoing efforts to clear a backlog of 385 enforcement investigations.

“We are preparing to regulate the online gaming environment, which is a major step for us,” he said, adding that a summit to roll out the Internet Gaming and Gambling Act is scheduled for July 31. “We’ve made real strides, but the demand for oversight keeps increasing.”

He said the Commission has issued 432 licenses and permits since October 2024, and now needs to invest in staff training, digital licensing systems, and outreach. The agency is also preparing to celebrate 30 years of service.

Several senators—including Sen. Kurt Vialet and Sen. Carla Joseph—urged agency heads to ensure transparency in staffing and spending, while Sen. Marvin Blyden asked for more inter-agency collaboration, especially as the cannabis and gaming sectors grow.

Sen. Marise James echoed those sentiments, emphasizing the need for regulators to be proactive, not reactive.

“This is a chance to do it right,” she said. “But doing it right means being ready—technologically, legally, and in the eyes of the public.”

Territorial Hospital Board Approves Contracts, Appointments and JFL Updates

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Territorial Hospital Board Approves Contracts, Appointments and JFL Updates
The Juan F. Luis Hospital, Charlotte Kimelman Cancer Institute, Myrah Keating Smith Community Health Center, and Schneider Regional Medical Center are among the facilities discussed during the V.I. Government Hospital & Health Facilities Corporation Territorial Board’s monthly meeting, where updates on staffing, infrastructure projects, and funding were presented. (Source file photo)

On Wednesday, the V.I. Government Hospital & Health Facilities Corporation Territorial Board held their monthly meeting and approved requests for equipment, medical staff applications, discussed recent protests, and medical projects.

The meeting was held online via Microsoft Teams. Early on, Juan F. Luis Hospital CEO Darlene A. Baptiste shared updates on the hospital’s status, addressing shortcomings, recent achievements, and the protest that took place earlier this month.

“We’re still doing strategic adjustments to address some of our shortfalls and realign operations for our long term goals,” said Baptiste, who added that the hospital is looking at their salary cost reduction plan to specifically address the attrition in their organization. Efforts for employee advisory growth for increased engagement are also being addressed.

Other issues, including arrears, challenges of being on an island, and shortfalls across the country regarding suppliers, were identified. However, one approving update Baptiste mentioned was the FDA recertification for the hospital’s mammography machine.

“That was one of our pieces that we were getting negative press on, so reconstituting that program has been a successful endeavor for Juan F. Luis,” said Baptiste.

Baptiste addressed the code yellow data breach that occurred in April and highlighted that the hospital is now 25 days away from reimplementation of its Meditech system.

Regarding the protest on July 8, “It seemed you handled it excellently, but from there, at least the media reports there will be some continued follow up. Can you bring us up to date?” asked board member Christopher Finch.

Baptiste responded that it was a “unique opportunity to approach the public from that vantage point.” She added, “We had some discussions. I’m trying very hard to keep it at a level of solution based discussion.”

According to the CEO, three and a half pages of concerns were received from nurses and physicians. Some have been addressed, but highlighted that the concern regarding the shortage of supplies has not been.

“It’s strictly not a cash flow issue,” she said. “Our vendors and suppliers don’t have the stock of which we need.”

Additionally, Baptiste stated that the hospital has 196 claims totaling just over $1.3 million and that 99.5% of the Southern Trust Settlement funds have been expended. Furthermore, Aug. 17 is the anticipated date for operations to resume at JFL, with a gradual return of departments. On July 31, there will be community outreach at the Virgin Islands Cardiac Center.

Board member Julio Rhymer addressed the board and asked for approval over the following items:

  1. The addition of Adeline Williams Connor, newly appointed chief operating officer, as the certifying officer and signatory to all bank accounts of JFLH.

  2. SRMC and JFLH Leadership joint request to enter into a renewal agreement for RYVEX LLC in the form of a combined five-year contract for hematology analyzers and reagents, covering both equipment and supplies for a not-to-exceed amount of $1,161,000, of which the JFLH share shall be $570,000 and the Schneider Regional Medical Center share $591,000. Each hospital will manage and pay its portions separately under the joint contract.

  3. A one-year supply agreement with DG Gas for HG-5 grade LPG for a not-to-exceed amount of $400,000 and for performance of one (1) year from date of execution of the contract.

  4. Change order #14 for the J Benton Construction contract for the Charlotte Kimmelman Cancer Institute, consisting of a low voltage systems package that will increase the contract sum by $890,030.35, leading to a new not-to-exceed total contract sum of $33,650,035.70 and a continued expiration date of Nov 19.

All actions were approved unanimously.

The board also approved reappointments for Elizabeth Dumas, CRNA, Brittany Dawson, CN, and Hakima Aouchiche, MD, and initial appointments for Travis Edelstein, MD, David Ratliff, MD, Pedro Ondina Diaz, MD, Felipe Rodrigues Ruiz, MD, and Thomas Brim, MD.

Darryl Smalls, executive director for the Territorial Hospital Redevelopment Team, provided updates on ongoing projects for the hospitals.

Cassava Gardens, the relocation site for nonclinical staff, is currently being addressed.

“I know the important thing that the board wants to know, as well as the leadership of JFL, is ‘What is that date that we will actually be moving in? ‘” said Smalls. “The TRHT team continues to work feverishly to get those payments processed,” he added, mentioning that there are a few months of arrears being processed.

Of JFLH 5 Acres, Smalls said they are “currently renovating to support the temporary JFL North as well as to facilitate the demolition of the Juan F. Luis Hospital.”

The project will clear five acres, create over 200 parking spaces, and provide a 10,000-square-foot space for medical waste and storage. Additionally, it will generate an access roadway north of JFL to terminate all traffic south of the Virgin Islands Cardiac Center, facilitating the demolition of JFL.

“We are still on target for completion at the end of the year for that,” said Smalls.

Smalls added that the Charlotte Kimmelman Cancer Institute is expected to be completed by Nov. 19. The Myrah Keating Smith Community Health Center contract is currently under review by the selected contractor for upgrades and the center has recently received approval from FEMA for funding for a temporary water supply, storage facility, and for the relocation of the morgue.

The interim dialysis facility on St. Croix has also been approved to receive funding from FEMA and the relocation of dialysis from JFL to VICC has been approved as well. Additionally, according to Smalls, contractor selections for JFL and Roy L. Schneider hospital upgrades are ongoing.

The next board meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, Aug. 20, at 5 p.m. via Teams.

Board members Jerry Smith, Julio Rhymer, Christopher Finch, Frank Odlum, Faye John-Baptiste, and Kevin McCurdy were present and voted. Justa Encarnacion was later present.

Tropical Outlook: Wave to Bring Rain to USVI and Puerto Rico; NHC Eyes Gulf System

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Tropical Outlook: Wave to Bring Rain to USVI and Puerto Rico; NHC Eyes Gulf System
Infrared satellite imagery obtained at 2 p.m. AST. The NWS expects a tropical wave to pass over the USVI and Puerto Rico this weekend, increasing the chance of rain. (Photo courtesy NOAA)
The National Weather Service expects a tropical wave to pass across the USVI and Puerto Rico this weekend, increasing the chance of rainfall. Separately, the National Hurricane Center is monitoring a disturbance off the southeast coast of the United States near the Gulf for potential cyclonic development. The NWS in San Juan, Puerto Rico, explained that moisture associated with a tropical wave that had been watched in the Atlantic earlier this week will move south of the USVI and Puerto Rico through Thursday, and impacts to the local islands are expected to be minimal. However, another tropical wave will approach the local islands this weekend, increasing the chance of precipitation. “A tropical wave, formerly known as ‘Invest 94L,’ is located at around 53W longitude and it carries significant moisture, but the bulk of the wave is projected to remain south of the area,” the NWS explained in an update on Wednesday. “As a result, widespread rainfall is not expected over the forecast area from this wave. However, scattered showers may still develop due to pockets of shallow moisture being transported by the trade winds,” the NWS update stated. The NWS continued its remarks by warning about a second tropical wave that could affect the USVI and Puerto Rico beginning Saturday night. “The global forecast models have consistently suggested a tropical wave approaching the region by Saturday night into Sunday, with moisture content lingering through early Monday,” the NWS explained. “Combined with other environmental factors, moderate to strong showers are possible, along with thunderstorms over the region,” the NWS said. “Rainfall accumulations are very likely to increase the flooding potential across most sectors of the local islands,” the NWS warned. NHC Tracking Tropical Disturbance Near the Gulf Regarding tropical activity in the near future, the National Hurricane Center is following a disturbance located off the southeast coast of the continental U.S., which may cross into the Gulf. As of Wednesday afternoon, the system has a low, 10% chance of strengthening. Still, heavy rain is possible across areas of Florida and the Gulf Coast states, and travelers are advised to stay informed.
The NHC is monitoring a tropical wave near the Gulf with a low chance of development. (Photo courtesy NHC)
“Over the next day or two, this system is forecast to move west-southwestward into the north-central portion of the Gulf where some slow development is possible,” according to an update on Wednesday from the NHC. “By this weekend, the system is likely to move inland, ending its chances for development. Regardless of tropical cyclone formation, locally heavy rainfall is possible for portions of Florida over the next day or so, and the northern Gulf Coast through this weekend,” the NHC cautioned. Alex DaSilva, lead hurricane specialist at AccuWeather, shared additional information about the tropical disturbance being monitored by the NHC in comments provided to the Source on Wednesday. “If the low-pressure area stays close to the coast, it likely won’t develop at all, DaSilva stated. “If it moves into the central Gulf, it may have a slightly better chance, although there’s a lot of wind shear in the region that will likely limit any development. Even if it does develop, it’s likely to remain weak in terms of wind intensity, and a hurricane is unlikely,” DaSilva said. “We do expect downpours along parts of the Gulf Coast, including southern Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, and potentially into Texas by the weekend,” DaSilva explained. NOAA Global Tropics Hazards Outlook The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center released its weekly Global Tropics Hazards Outlook on Tuesday, July 22. The forecast tool offers a glimpse into potential developments across tropical basins approximately three weeks into the future. According to the update, significant cyclonic development is not expected near the U.S. Virgin Islands through the beginning to middle part of August.
NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center released its weekly Global Tropics Hazards Outlook Tuesday. The update indicates that there are currently no major cyclone threats to the USVI or Puerto Rico, and none are expected for the next few weeks. (Photo courtesy NOAA)
However, DaSilva explained that as August progresses, tropical activity could become more likely, noting that several environmental conditions could become more conducive for cyclonic development, including a reduction in wind shear and less dry, Saharan dust across the Atlantic Ocean. “We’ll be watching for more tropical waves coming off Africa,” DaSilva said. “We’re still early in the season, so anything significant is unlikely in early August. But this is when we start watching those African waves more closely,” he acknowledged. “As for the U.S. Virgin Islands, I think there could be one or two impacts during this hurricane season,” DaSilva predicted. “Historically, the most likely time for the region to be affected is in September, which is also the statistical peak of the season. That’s typically when African waves are strongest and most active,” he added. “There doesn’t appear to be anything significant in the near term, but as we move into August and conditions become more favorable, we need to start paying close attention,” DaSilva said. Follow Local Weather Updates Finally, during a Wednesday morning phone call with the Source, Ian Carlos Colón-Pagán, a lead meteorologist at the NWS in San Juan, Puerto Rico, reminded individuals about weather-related threats that will continue to affect both U.S. territories, including gusty winds, very warm temperatures, choppy seas, and an elevated risk of rip currents. “We have a Small Craft Advisory in effect for the waters surrounding the Virgin Islands and a moderate rip current risk for most local beaches, at least through the next 24 to 48 hours,” Colón-Pagán said. The NWS local forecast update also noted the possibility of yet another tropical wave passing through the Caribbean early next week, though uncertainty is high. Nevertheless, it is crucial to remember that the forecast can change very quickly. USVI residents and visitors are encouraged to continue to remain prepared. In addition to obtaining weather information from the NWS, the NHC, and NOAA, the local weather forecast for the U.S. Virgin Islands is regularly updated on the Source Weather Page and VI Source YouTube Channel. Individuals can also find helpful weather information and alerts from the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency.

Crucian Author Pens Motivational Book for Children

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Crucian Author Pens Motivational Book for Children
Crucian-born Channa Bannis released her second children’s book recently and held an event at Undercover Books Tuesday to unveil it locally.
Children’s author Channa Bannis met with children and parents Tuesday at Undercover Books to discuss her new book. (Source photo by Susan Ellis)
“Daddy Is Not Listening” is the new release and follows a child as he explores the reasons he is not getting the attention from his father that he seeks. The surprise ending to the book talks about a lesson children hopefully learn as toddlers — forceful emotions don’t always produce desired results and emotional awareness should be taught with patience. The first book, “I Love the Me I See,” is about learning self-love and she uses the lessons in it for motivational speaking forums to adults. Bannis is working on her third book, which will encourage children to reach for the stars. The book will explain the importance of adult support and “limitless aspirations” for kids.
The first and second books by children’s author Channa Bannis. (Source photo by Susan Ellis)
She said her “passion area” was discovered during her studies and has led her to writing books that “intersect corporate America with diversity.” Some of the emotions she explains are based on her young son’s experiences. “How do I prepare my son to navigate a world that may not always recognize his true worth?” Bannis gave as the reason for the aspirational theme in her books. Bannis lived on St. Croix until she was around 10 years old and then moved to Boston with her family. After high school, her education included earning a Bachelor of Science in marketing at Bryant University in Rhode Island and a master’s degree in diversity, equity, inclusion, justice and leadership from Massachusetts’s Tufts University. Currently, she is working on her doctorate in business administration at Saint Mary’s College of California. As an adult, Bannis lived in New York and held a corporate marketing job for some years. Now she lives in Oakland, California and manages her marketing firm. In addition to books, Bannis leads sessions for adults following the virtues and values explained in the children’s books — self-empowerment.

Giving Homeless Animals a Second Chance: Pets With Wings Hosts Life-Saving Brunch at Hotel 1829

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Giving Homeless Animals a Second Chance: Pets With Wings Hosts Life-Saving Brunch at Hotel 1829
A puppy is held during transport to the mainland. Each animal flown by Pets With Wings is headed toward a second chance through rescue placement or adoption. (Photo courtesy Pets With Wings)

Pets With Wings, a nonprofit animal transport organization, is inviting the public to attend its Life Saving Brunch at Hotel 1829 this Sunday. This special fundraiser will support the organization’s ongoing mission to relocate adoptable animals from the Virgin Islands to no-kill shelters, rescue partners, and loving homes on the U.S. mainland.

The brunch will take place at the historic property in downtown Charlotte Amalie, offering guests a meaningful way to contribute to the cause while enjoying a memorable meal with friends and family. Organizers are encouraging early reservations, as seating is limited and all proceeds will directly assist animals in need of safe transport and a second chance at life.

Pets With Wings was first established in 2010 as a program under the Humane Society of St. Thomas. In April 2024, the program became an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit, allowing it to expand its services and operate with greater flexibility in support of local animals.

In 2024, the organization transported a total of 633 pets. In February alone, one of its largest efforts to date, Pets With Wings flew 275 shelter animals to the U.S. mainland, including 149 dogs, 117 cats, and nine rabbits. The remaining 358 pets were relocated throughout the year, including privately owned animals and community-fostered pets in need of rehoming.

A father and child hold two kittens ahead of their transport flight. (Photo courtesy Pets With Wings)

So far in 2025, Pets With Wings has transported 160 animals, including 78 dogs and 82 cats.

With pet overpopulation continuing to challenge shelters and fosters across the Virgin Islands, the need for transport services remains critical. Many animals face extended shelter stays or uncertain outcomes without access to placement opportunities beyond the territory.

A volunteer holds a young puppy awaiting transport to the U.S. mainland. Pets With Wings partners with fosters, shelters, and rescue organizations to help animals find permanent homes. (Photo courtesy Pets With Wings)

In early July, the organization coordinated the airlift of 28 medium to extra-large dogs. Eighteen were from the Humane Society of St. Thomas, seven were community-fostered pets, and three were privately owned animals relocating with their families. In June, 42 smaller pets under 20 pounds traveled with airline passengers to no-kill rescues in multiple states.

Pets With Wings credits its impact to a dedicated network of supporters, including daily volunteers, community fosters, dog walkers, and local businesses that assist with ground transportation and travel logistics. The organization relies entirely on donations to cover the costs of airfare, travel crates, veterinary care, and coordination efforts.

All contributions are tax-deductible, and supporters can choose to sponsor a flight, fund ground transportation, or become an annual member.

To reserve a table for the Life Saving Brunch, call 833-843-1829.

To donate or learn more about Pets With Wings, call 340-643-0796 or email petswwings@gmail.com.

Patient Assist VI Eases Prescription Costs for Seniors in the Virgin Islands

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Patient Assist VI Eases Prescription Costs for Seniors in the Virgin Islands
PAVI is working to offer hope to seniors struggling with prescription medication costs (Submitted photo)

For many seniors living in the U.S. Virgin Islands, the cost of managing chronic illness can be overwhelming. A new initiative by Patient Assist VI, a local nonprofit, is working to change that.

Founded in 2012, PAVI helps uninsured and underinsured Virgin Islands residents access life-saving prescription medications. The organization partners with local pharmacies, healthcare providers and national assistance programs to ensure that residents do not have to choose between affording their medication and meeting basic needs like rent or food.

In late 2023, PAVI launched a program focused on supporting seniors enrolled in Medicare Part D. The initiative covers up to 50 percent of annual deductibles, co-pays for chronic illness medications, and prescription costs not covered by Medicare. As of mid-2025, the program has already helped more than 120 seniors across St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix.

“I’m a retired senior on a fixed income,” said Avery Leonard, 72. “When I found out I had to pay over $500 out-of-pocket just to get my Eliquis, I was overwhelmed. PAVI stepped in and made sure I got what I needed. I’m so grateful.”

The initiative is part of a broader mission to remove financial barriers to healthcare for the most vulnerable residents in the territory.

To support the effort, PAVI has launched a community campaign called “Pledge $30 to Power 3 Months of Health.” The campaign, which began in July in recognition of Chronic Illness Awareness Month, runs through the end of 2025. A $30 donation provides 90 days of medication for one patient in need. Donations can be made online at www.patientassistvi.org, and the campaign is being promoted through pop-up wellness events and social media outreach.

PAVI credits much of its success to key community partners and funders. Local pharmacy collaborators include Chelsea Drug Store, Drug Farm Pharmacy 2, The Medicine Shoppe and Kmart Pharmacy, as well as Diamond Pharmacy in St. Croix. Funding for the Medicare support program is provided through private donations, federal grants and local philanthropic support, including assistance from the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands.

As part of ongoing fundraising efforts, Patient Assist VI will be the featured nonprofit beneficiary at Taphus’s First Friday event on Friday, Aug. 1.

The organization is also calling on community members to get involved by donating, referring eligible patients or spreading awareness. Health care providers and residents can refer patients directly through the PAVI website.

“Our goal is to make Patient Assist VI a trusted household name,” the organization said in a statement. “Everyone deserves access to the medications they need to live a healthy life.”

For more information or to donate, visit www.patientassistvi.org.

Armed Robbery and Carjacking Reported Near Drake’s Seat

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Armed Robbery and Carjacking Reported Near Drake’s Seat

A carjacking and armed robbery occurred near Drake’s Seat on St. Thomas early Tuesday, according to the Virgin Islands Police Department.

At approximately 2:39 a.m., a citizen contacted the 911 Emergency Call Center to report the incident. Responding patrol officers met with the victims, who stated that several armed individuals robbed them and stole their silver Infiniti EX35 before fleeing the scene, according to the police report.

Authorities urge the public not to approach the vehicle or its occupants if spotted. Instead, call 911 immediately, the police report stated.

Anyone with information about the robbery is asked to contact the VIPD Criminal Investigation Bureau at 340-774-2211 or submit tips anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477).

Editor’s Note: Based on further information from the police, this story has been changed to reflect that the carjacking occurred at 2:39 a.m., not 2:39 p.m. as originally reported.

Gov. Bryan Offers Condolences on Northern Mariana Islands Governor Arnold I. Palacios

Mat Probasco
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Gov. Bryan Offers Condolences on Northern Mariana Islands Governor Arnold I. Palacios
Governor Albert Bryan Jr. today issued the following statement on the passing of Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Governor Arnold Indalecio Palacios: “It is with a heavy heart that I offer my deepest condolences to the people of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands on the passing of Governor Arnold Palacios, a devoted leader, a steadfast advocate, and a dear friend. On behalf of the people of the U.S. Virgin Islands and my administration, I extend our prayers and heartfelt sympathy to First Lady Wella Palacios, their children and grandchildren, and the extended Palacios family during this time of profound loss. Governor Palacios was a pillar of public service in the Pacific. His deep love for the people and culture of the Marianas was evident throughout his remarkable career. For more than three decades, he served with humility, grace, and a firm belief in the role of government to uplift its people. Whether as Speaker of the House, President of the Senate, Lieutenant Governor, or Governor, he led with conviction, compassion, and courage. I had the honor of working closely with Governor Palacios on many of the challenges facing America’s island territories. I will always remember the time we spent together in Washington, where we stood side by side before the Department of the Interior and the White House, united with our fellow territorial governors to advocate for our communities. Governor Palacios understood that although our islands are separated by geography, we are united by shared struggles and a common purpose—to build a better future for those we serve. As the people of the Northern Mariana Islands mourn the loss of their beloved leader, we remember a man whose legacy was defined by integrity, perseverance, and a lifelong commitment to public service. May his memory inspire others to lead with the same heart, honor, and hope that guided him throughout his life. Rest in peace, Governor Palacios. Your legacy endures in the islands and people you so deeply loved.”

Police Investigating After Three Injured in Shooting on St. Croix

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Police Investigating After Three Injured in Shooting on St. Croix

Three men were injured, one seriously, in a shooting Tuesday night in Estate Strawberry on St. Croix, the V.I. Police Department reported.

According to the report, officers responded to the area after several residents called 911 around 10:52 p.m. to report hearing gunshots and the ShotSpotter system recorded 76 rounds fired in the neighborhood.

One caller reported that a man was shot in the hand and was traveling to the Juan F. Luis Hospital in a private vehicle. An officer at the hospital reported that two males arrived by private vehicle with gunshot wounds.

One of the victims was shot in the upper body and was taken into surgery immediately and remains in serious but stable condition, according to the VIPD. The other two victims received non life-threatening injuries, the report stated.

The incident remains under investigation by the Criminal Investigation Bureau. Anyone with information should contact 911, the Major Crimes Unit at 340-778-2211 or Crime Stoppers VI at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).

Michelle Smith Advances to Semi-Finals at FISU World University Games

Mat Probasco
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Michelle Smith Advances to Semi-Finals at FISU World University Games
Virgin Islands hurdler Michelle Smith delivered a powerful performance in the Women’s 400m Hurdles at the 2025 FISU World University Games in Rhine-Ruhr, Germany, securing her spot in the semi-finals with confidence and composure.
A blur of motion, Michelle Smith delivered in the 400m Hurdles. (Submitted photo)
Competing in Heat 5, Smith crossed the line in 2nd place, with a time of 56.99, earning the 9th fastest time overall among a competitive international field. Her result not only demonstrated her technical finesse over the hurdles but also her ability to rise to the occasion on one of university sport’s biggest stages. Next Race:  Wednesday, July 23, at  2:08 p.m. (Germany) / 8:08 a.m. (Virgin Islands)  Semi-Final #2, Lane 6 Let’s rally behind her as she takes on the next round — one hurdle at a time! Virgin Islands sprinter Brandon Pemberton is gearing up for his next challenge at the 2025 FISU World University Games in Rhine-Ruhr, Germany. After a determined showing in the 100m earlier this week, Pemberton will return to the track on Wednesday, July 23, to compete in the first round of the Men’s 200m.  Race Details: 1:04 p.m. (Germany) / 7:04 AM (Virgin Islands)  Heat 4, Lane 8 The stakes are high: only the top 2 finishers in each heat, along with the next 8 fastest times overall, will advance to the semi-finals scheduled for Thursday. With his trademark focus and explosive speed, Brandon is ready to make his mark. This race marks another opportunity for Pemberton to showcase his talent on the international stage and continue building momentum in his athletic journey. The Virgin Islands community stands behind him, cheering for a breakthrough performance.  
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