It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Henry L. Feuerzeig, emeritus board member and beloved community leader. Hank, as he was affectionately known, made countless invaluable contributions to our Foundation and the community. He was known as a brilliant attorney and judge, a passionate advocate for his community, and a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend.
Hank Feuerzeig and his wife Penny Feuerzeig. (Submitted photo)
Hank was a founding member of the CFVI Board of Directors in 1990 and served the Foundation for many years in that role, most recently as Director Emeritus. At CFVI, we will remember him most for his unwavering commitment, vision, and leadership. In the more than 30 years he spent on the CFVI Board, Hank was always there for the Foundation. No task was too great or too small—whether providing legal counsel, drafting and editing documents, exploring complex legal implications, or simply making sangria for our Angel events.
In 2002, Hank and his wife Penny established The Feuerzeig Family Fund at CFVI, continuing their longstanding tradition of generosity and dedication to the Virgin Islands community.
Thanks to Hank, the Virgin Islands and CFVI are better than he found us. There are truly no words to express our profound gratitude for all that Hank was—and the immense void his passing leaves behind. His legacy will undoubtedly live on through our shared passion for the CFVI mission: to be a catalyst for positive change here in our beloved Virgin Islands communities.
At the 2025 FISU World University Games in Rhine-Ruhr, Germany, Kruz Schembri, a student at the University of Notre Dame, proudly represented the Virgin Islands in fencing, competing in both the men’s epee and men’s foil individual events. The young athlete delivered a commendable performance against a deep international field, finishing 44th in epee and 24th in foil.
Kruz Schembri (Submitted photo)
In just under a month, Schembri has competed in four of the most prestigious fencing championships in the world—a whirlwind schedule that highlights both his commitment and resilience. At the USA Summer Nationals, Kruz placed 14th out of nearly 500 athletes, a remarkable feat in one of the largest and most competitive national fencing events globally. Just a week before the University Games, he clinched double gold medals in Epee and Foil at the Central American and Caribbean Games, bringing pride and honor to the Virgin Islands.
Now, with Rhine-Ruhr behind him, Schembri sets his sights on the World Fencing Championships in Tbilisi, Georgia, driven by peak physical conditioning and uncompromising personal standards. His focus remains unwavering—even when results vary, his determination to reach the summit never falters.
Kruz’s journey continues to inspire not just his family and national delegation, but also the entire Tampa Fencing Academy community, where young fencers see him as both a role model and a rising fencing superstar.
His coach, Maitre d’Arms Enrique Claro Nunez, shares a deep sense of optimism, viewing these events as essential checkpoints toward an even greater ambition: the Olympic Games. With each tournament, Schembri gains invaluable insights, refining his craft and reinforcing the belief that the ultimate goal—an Olympic medal—is not just a dream, but an achievable reality.
The Virgin Islands stand proudly behind him, ready to conquer the international stages one bout at a time.
The Virgin Islands Cycling Federation’s M2M Time Trial saw twenty cyclists take on a challenging 10-mile course Sunday morning, racing individually against the clock under sunny skies and strong coastal winds.
Husband and wife Robin Seila and Stephen Swanton (Photo by Enid Francis)
Riders were released at one-minute intervals from the start line in front of Welco Service Station in Gallows Bay, and faced a demanding route up the Christiansted Bypass and down Southside Road before finishing in Sally’s Fancy, in front of the former Milgie’s Convenience Store.
Stephen Swanton claimed the overall victory, shaving 45 seconds off his time from last year to finish in 27 minutes and 25 seconds. Elite cyclist Robin Seila recorded the second fastest time of the day, finishing in 30:33, while Expert rider Ted Prosper secured third place with a time of 32:57.
Category winners included Joseph Thomas in the Sport division (35:55), Ralph Bartlett in the Masters division (34:54), and Kat Brownsdon, who was the fastest among the women with a time of 34:28.
VI legendary female cyclist, Sue Brown, at the start. She posted the fourth overall fastest time. (Photo by Enid Francis)
The next race on the VICF’s schedule will be held in St Thomas on Sunday, August 10. For more information, please contact 340-643-5050.
36th Legislature of the Virgin Islands Calendar
July 21, 2025 – August 01, 2025
MONDAY, JULY 21, 2025Committee on Budget, Appropriations and Finance
10:00 A.M.
Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall
The Committee on Budget, Appropriations and Finance will meet on Monday, July 21, 2025, 10:00 A.M. in the Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall on St. Thomas to receive testimony on the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget.BLOCK I 10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority
Eugene Jones, Jr., Executive Director
Virgin Islands Housing Authority
Dwayne Alexander, Executive Director
BLOCK II 1:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M.
VI Economic Development Authority
Wayne Biggs, Chief Executive Officer
BLOCK III 3:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M.
Virgin Islands Waste Management Authority
Daryl Griffith, Interim Executive Director
TUESDAY, JULY 22, 2025Committee on Rules and Judiciary
10:00 A.M.
Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall
The 36th Legislature of the Virgin Islands Committee on Rules and Judiciary has scheduled a hearing for 10 a.m. on Tuesday, July 22, 2025 in the Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall on St. Thomas. The purpose of the meeting is to receive testimony and consider the following legislative measures:
BLOCK I 10:00 A.M. – 11:30 A.M.
Mr. Vincent Roberts, Commissioner Nominee, Department of Sports, Parks, and Recreation
BLOCK II 11:30 A.M. – 12:30 P.M.
Mr. Erwin Raphael, Governor’s Nominee, University of the Virgin Islands Research and Technology Park Board
BLOCK III 12:30 P.M. – 1:30 P.M.
Mrs. Chantelle D. Quinones, Governor’s Nominee, Virgin Islands Historic Preservation Commission
LUNCH 1:30 P.M. – 2:00 P.M.BLOCK IV 2:00 P.M. – 3:30 P.M.
Bill No. 36-0077 An act amending title 3 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 37 to enact the Virgin Islands Commission on Ethics and Conflicts of Interest.
Invited Testifiers:
Ms. Gwen-Marie Moolenaar, PHD., President, League of Women Voters of the Virgin Islands
Mr. Kevin Williams, Chief of Staff, Office of the Governor
Ms. Hinda Carbon, Executive Director, Virgin Islands Bar Association
Honorable Gordon C. Rhea, Esq., Attorney General, Department of Justice
Ms. Regina deChabert Petersen, Administrator of Courts, Judiciary Branch of the Virgin IslandsBLOCK V 3:30 P.M. – 4:30 P.M.
Bill No. 36-0003 An act amending title 19 Virgin Islands Code relating to nursing homes and assisted living facilities by adding a new chapter 76 to establish the services that nursing homes and assisted living facilities are required to provide; establishing limitations on financial charges, requirements for visitation, and the rights of a resident.
Bill No. 36-0039 An Act amending title 33 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 4 by increasing the costs to bring
containers or flat rack containers into the Virgin Islands.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 23, 2025
Committee on Budget, Appropriations and Finance
10:00 A.M.
Frits E. Lawaetz Legislative Conference Room
The Committee on Budget, Appropriations and Finance will meet on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, 10 a.m. in the Frits E. Lawaetz Legislative Conference Room on St. Croix to receive testimony on the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget.
BLOCK I 10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs, H. Nathalie Hodge, Commissioner
BLOCK II 1:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M.
VI Casino Control Commission, Marvin L. Pickering, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer
BLOCK III 3:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M.
Bureau of Information & Technology, Rupert O. Ross, Director
THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2025
Committee on Budget, Appropriations and Finance
10:00 A.M.
Frits E. Lawaetz Legislative Conference Room
The Committee on Budget, Appropriations and Finance will meet on Thursday, July 24, 2025, 10 a.m. in the Frits E. Lawaetz Legislative Conference Room on St. Croix to receive testimony on the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget.
BLOCK I 10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
VI Board of Education, Dr. Kyza Callwood, Chairman
BLOCK II 1:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M.
Virgin Islands Board of Nurse Licensure, Carmen Vanterpool-Romney, Territorial Executive Director
BLOCK III 3:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M.
VI Department of Health
Nicole Craigwell Syms, Assistant Commissioner
FRIDAY, JULY 25, 2025
Committee on Budget, Appropriations and Finance
10:00 A.M.
Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall
The Committee on Budget, Appropriations and Finance will meet on Friday, July 25, 2025, 10:00 A.M. inthe Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall on St. Thomas to receive testimony on the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget.
BLOCK I 10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
Office of the Lieutenant Governor, Nadja Harrigan, Esq., Acting Chief of Staff
BLOCK II 1:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M.
Office of the Governor, Kevin A. Williams, Sr., Chief of Staff
BLOCK III 3:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M.
Schneider Regional Medical Center, Tina Comissiong, Esq., Chief Executive Officer
TUESDAY, JULY 29, 2025
Committee on Education and Workforce Development
9:00 A.M.
Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall
The Committee on Education and Workforce Development has scheduled a hearing on Tuesday, July 29, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. in the Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall to discuss the status of summer repair and maintenance, staffing and readiness of public schools
Invited Testifiers:
Craig Benjamin, Executive Director, Bureau of School Construction and Maintenance
Honorable Dionne Wells-Hedrington, Ph.D., Commissioner, Virgin Islands Department of Education
WEDNESDAY, JULY 30, 2025
Committee on Budget, Appropriations and Finance
10:00 A.M.
Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall
The Committee on Budget, Appropriations and Finance will meet on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, 10:00 A.M. in the Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall on St. Thomas to receive testimony on the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget.
BLOCK I 10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
St. Thomas East End Medical Center Corporation, Dr. Tess Richards, Interim Executive Director
BLOCK II 1:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M.
Department of Human Services, Honorable Averil George, Commissioner
THURSDAY, JULY 31, 2025
Committee on Budget, Appropriations and Finance
10:00 A.M.
Frits E. Lawaetz Legislative Conference Room
The Committee on Budget, Appropriations and Finance will meet on Thursday, July 31, 2025, 10:00 A.M. in the Frits E. Lawaetz Legislative Conference Room on St. Croix to receive testimony on the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget.
BLOCK I 10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
Virgin Islands Elections System
BLOCK II 1:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M.
Frederiksted Health Center
BLOCK III 3:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M.
Juan F. Luis Hospital
FRIDAY, AUGUST 01, 2025
SPECIAL SESSION
10:00 A.M.
Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall
Committee of the Whole
1:00 P.M.
Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall
Senator Angel L. Bolques Jr. congratulates the talented collective known as the West Gyul for their visionary leadership and cultural creativity, which were showcased during this year’s Tart Wars 2025. Their vibrant energy and artistic flair brought the community together to celebrate the Virgin Islands’ identity and flavor.
The senator also highlighted the recent enactment of Act No. 8848 (formerly Bill No. 35-0078), sponsored by Senators Angel Bolques Jr. and Marvin Blyden, which amends Title 1, Chapter 7 of the Virgin Islands Code toofficially establish Fish and Fungi as the national dish and Tart as the national dessert of the Virgin Islands. “This act is both cultural and strategic,” said Senator Bolques. “It affirms our heritage while laying the groundwork for culinary tourism and economic development.”
Tart Wars offered a compelling showcase of this potential, with over 8,000 tarts sold and a record-breaking turnoutof tart lovers, local vendors, and curious tourists—all in a single day, solidifying the Virgin Islands tart as both acultural treasure and a promising economic product. “Our tarts are the best in the Caribbean—bar none,” statedSenator Bolques. “We should be preparing to export Virgin Islands tarts to the mainland and beyond. The demand is real, and our product is exceptional.
He further emphasized that building a tart export industry could open doors for entrepreneurship, culinary training, agriculture, and small business growth, all rooted in authentic Virgin Islands traditions. “This isn’t just about desserts, it’s about economic empowerment,” Bolques said. “Tart production can be a job creator, a tourism booster, and a global ambassador of who we are as a people.”From honoring ancestral recipes to inspiring the next generation of culinary talent, Tart Wars proves that food is a powerful vessel for cultural pride and economicopportunity.
“My favorite Tart has always been Guavaberry—it’s originally traditional, deeply rooted, and might not be as trendy as some of the more popular varieties, but it holds a special place in our cultural heritage. That said, I had the honor of judging the specialty tart category this year, which featured exotic flavors like starfruit, soursop, tamarind, cherry, and Mango. I have to admit, Mango has won me over in the specialty section. I’d like to gently and respectfully encourage West Gyul and their team to ensure Mango gets a spot in next year’s line-up. Honestly, I think coconut has become a little too powerful at this point!” (laughs)
I can’t wait for next year’s Tart Wars!”
Tart Wars 2025 took place on Saturday in Frederiksted town. (Source photo by Diana Dias)
It was an afternoon filled with fun, laughter, and, of course, tarts — as thousands gathered at the Frederiksted waterfront on St. Croix for the highly anticipated Tart Wars 2025.
A Frederiksted block party that brought together friends, families, and supporters to represent their favorite tart. (Source photo by Diana Dias)
Now in its second year, the event brought out fierce tart pride from fans of guava, pineapple, and coconut. And for the second year in a row, coconut tart reigned supreme in the spirited showdown of flavors.
Vendors sold food, drinks, crafts, clothing, and more at Tart Wars. (Source photo by Diana Dias)
Hosted by West Gyul with the support of numerous sponsors, community groups, and local vendors, the event was a flavorful success. The results for the team competitions were as follows:
Trivia Champion: Team Pineapple
Games Winner: Team Coconut
Community Voting (pingpong Balls): Team Guava
With each team claiming victory in one category, a three-way tie led to a high-stakes tiebreaker: a foot race involving a wooden spoon and a delicately balanced tart on top. Each team selected a representative to carry their tart to the finish line. The challenge? Run without dropping the tart, then eat a mystery tart upon crossing the line.
Jr. Miss St. Croix placed her cultural wear on display, paying homage to the tarts on display. (Source photo by Diana Dias)
Guava took an early lead, with Coconut and Pineapple close behind. But just steps from victory, Team Guava’s tart toppled, resulting in an automatic disqualification. In the end, Team Coconut clinched the win, once again taking the Tart Wars crown.
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority was in charge of tallying the votes for the people’s vote on their favorite tart. (Source photo by Diana Dias)
Judges also awarded honors to local vendors for the best-tasting tarts in each flavor category:
Best Pineapple Tart
1st Place: Uniquely Yours
2nd Place: Vivian Mason and Aquaholics
3rd Place: Uniquely Yours
Best Guava Tart
1st Place: Sweet Bites and Vivian Mason
2nd Place: Uniquely Yours
3rd Place: CJ’s Lemonade
Best Coconut Tart
1st Place: Uniquely Yours
2nd Place: Trini Dreams
3rd Place: Sweet Bites and Crucian Cake Queens
Families enjoyed a dedicated “Kidsville” play area while adults sampled tarts, shopped local vendors, and cheered on their favorite teams. When the results were announced, the crowd erupted in support of their chosen champions.
Kidsville was a hit with the children, who enjoyed fun activities throughout the afternoon. (Source photo by Diana Dias)
The day concluded with live music from Vio International and a spectacular drone show lighting up the Frederiksted sky, bringing Tart Wars 2025 to a sweet and unforgettable close.
A quick smile for the camera at the CMCARTs booth at Kidsville. (CMCArts photo)
In his biweekly column, Langley Shazor speaks to issues important to men within the territory.
I take exception to the term “real men.” All men are real. We all exist. That phrase, for all its cultural traction, has become a flawed compass, often pointing us toward affluence, domination, violence, or emotional disconnection as if those are the markers of true masculinity. It’s macho nonsense dressed up as wisdom. This bootstrap ideology hasn’t advanced us; it’s fractured us. It hasn’t built men; it has built masks.
We’ve grown up being told what “real men” do. Real men don’t cry. Real men provide. Real men take charge. Real men don’t need help. But what if we stopped parroting these slogans and asked a harder question: are we whole? Because I know too many men, good men, successful men, who are built, but not whole. They’ve achieved status. They’ve built businesses, bodies, reputations. They’re respected in public but suffering in private. They’ve nailed the exterior, but inside, something’s still undone.
That’s the lie we inherited: that manhood is performance. That it’s grit without grace. That strength means silence. But what makes someone a high-caliber man is not how many burdens he carries, but whether he knows how to carry himself. It’s character. Emotional regulation. Introspection. Accountability. Leadership. Being a man of integrity, class, peace, patience, and humility. And more than that, it’s being consistent when no one’s looking, when there’s no praise or applause to chase. Not just in public, but behind closed doors. That’s where real strength lives.
But we haven’t been taught that. We’ve been taught to build, just not within. So, we have men who can dominate a room but can’t sit still with their own thoughts. Men who protect everyone else but never protect their peace (“Chasing Peace”, 7/6/25 anyone?). Men who are loyal to the grind but strangers to their own hearts. You’ll find them everywhere: on job sites, in pulpits, in corner offices. They look solid. But if you ask them how they’re really doing, they’ll flinch or deflect or make a joke. Because no one ever gave them the tools or permission to be honest, especially with themselves.
It’s not just individual men who pay the price for this. Our families do. Our communities do. Our children inherit these broken templates and build their own identities on top of them. Little boys who learn that being loud and angry is leadership. Little girls who learn that silence is strength. Relationships suffer. Brotherhoods die. Trust erodes. And all because we taught men to be functional but not full. Useful, but not rooted.
It’s time we reframe what manhood could mean. I said it in the post, and I’ll say it again: if we want to redefine this term, let it be about trustworthiness. About being dependable, and not simply the dependability to show up, but that your word is impenetrable. That when you say, “I got you”, that can be taken to the bank and deposited. About being the kind of person people can believe and believe in. A man who will do the right thing because it’s the right thing, not because someone’s watching or the cameras are rolling. That’s the standard. That’s the measure. Anything less is just as artificial and misleading as the social media masculinity metrics that keep us chasing the wind.
So, what does wholeness look like? It doesn’t mean being perfect. It means being complete. It means having the courage to ask for help when you need it. To apologize when you’re wrong. To sit with uncomfortable feelings instead of numbing them. It means building the emotional stamina to listen, reflect, and grow. It’s knowing who you are when no one’s validating you. It’s how you show up when there’s no incentive except self-respect.
The work of becoming whole is not glamorous. It won’t get you likes. It won’t impress the loudest circles. But it will give you peace. And it will make you the kind of man whose presence doesn’t just dominate but heals. The kind of man who knows how to lead without lording over. The kind who doesn’t just survive pressure but rises from it with grace.
Men like that don’t need to be told they’re “real.” They just are. And you can feel it. In how they speak. In how they handle correction. In how they protect their families and their principles without losing themselves. That’s not something you post. That’s something you prove — in the quiet, in the chaos, and in the commitment to grow, even when no one sees it but you.
If you’re already built, but you know there’s more, more healing to do, more self to uncover, more truth to embrace, good. You’re on the right path. Stay on it. Let’s build men who are whole, not just hard. Complete, not just competent. Let’s put the phrase “real men” to rest and start living in a way that no phrase can fully capture, only our character can.
Langley “Casual-Word” Shazor is a poet, author, publisher, entrepreneur, public speaking coach, podcast host, and pastor who is an advocate for youth and men. His goal is to enlighten, empower, and liberate those who are silenced, marginalized, and enslaved to self-destructive thoughts and behaviors. Visit thecasualword.com.
Editor’s Note: Opinion articles do not represent the views of the Virgin Islands Source newsroom and are the sole expressed opinion of the writer. Submissions can be made to visource@gmail.com.
The NHC is monitoring a tropical wave moving across the Atlantic Ocean. While the wave has a low chance of development, the local islands may experience some impacts later this week. (Photo courtesy NHC)
The National Hurricane Center is tracking a tropical wave currently moving across the Central Tropical Atlantic. While development chances are low, the disturbance could bring unsettled weather to the USVI and Puerto Rico by Friday.
The Source contacted Carlos Anselmi-Molina, a lead meteorologist at the National Weather Service in San Juan, Puerto Rico, to obtain more information about this disturbance and any possible impacts to the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.
“A tropical wave is currently located over the central tropical Atlantic and is being monitored by the NHC,” Anselmi-Molina said. “It is producing disorganized showers and thunderstorms, and environmental conditions are marginally conducive for development, with a low 10% chance of formation noted over the next seven days as it moves west-northwestward at around 15 to 20 mph,” Anselmi-Molina explained.
According to information from the NHC and the NWS, the tropical wave in the Atlantic has a relatively short period of opportunity for possible strengthening before moving into an area less conducive to cyclonic development.
Adam Douty, a senior meteorologist at AccuWeather, shared the following information about the tropical wave in comments provided to the Source on Sunday.
“The tropical wave in the central Atlantic has a very small window until Monday or Tuesday of this week to become better organized into a tropical depression before it encounters less favorable conditions for tropical development as it approaches the Lesser Antilles midweek,” Douty stated. “Even though it does have a brief window for development, the overall risk that this does form into a tropical depression remains low,” he added.
“There is a little dry air and Saharan dust that the tropical wave will be battling against. However, the primary limiting factor for development beyond Tuesday will be an increase in wind shear,” Douty said.
Regardless of development, the NWS in San Juan warned that the tropical disturbance may bring rainfall and thunderstorms to the local region toward the end of the week.
“The wave is expected to arrive near the Virgin Islands around Friday, with its trailing moisture extending through at least Saturday,” according to Anselmi-Molina.
“At this stage, as the wave is projected to arrive late this upcoming workweek, there is significant uncertainty in the forecast, and we must closely monitor its development,” Anselmi-Molina said.
Additional Weather-Related Concerns
For the next several days, the main weather-related threats that the USVI and Puerto Rico face include the continuation of gusty easterly winds, warm temperatures, and an elevated level of Saharan dust in the atmosphere. Periodic showers and thunderstorms will also be possible.
The forecast can change quickly, and residents and visitors across the USVI and Puerto Rico are urged to follow the NHC forecasts regularly. (Photo courtesy NOAA)
“We have moderate confidence that moderate to high concentrations of Saharan dust particles will move across the region between Monday and Tuesday, so we may see hazy skies and reduced air quality on those days,” Anselmi-Molina explained.
“For Tuesday, a weak easterly disturbance is forecast to bring more frequent passing showers across the islands, although the dry air associated with Saharan dust is expected to weaken it,” he noted.
Very warm temperatures are also anticipated, and visitors and residents across the local islands are advised to stay hydrated and cool to prevent heat-related illnesses.
“The excessive heat trend is expected to persist throughout much of the forecast period, particularly between Tuesday and Thursday,” Anselmi-Molina said.
Anselmi-Molina also reminded residents and visitors to be mindful of the possibility of wind-driven choppy seas and dangerous rip currents over the coming days.
“Mariners can expect moderate to locally fresh easterly winds from Tuesday onward, creating choppy seas,” Anselmi-Molina cautioned. “Additionally, for the beachgoers, a moderate rip current risk will persist, particularly along the exposed beaches of St Croix’s eastern half, spreading to the north- and east-facing beaches of the northern Virgin Islands from the middle of the week onward,” he added.
Stay Informed About Weather Events
The Atlantic hurricane season lasts until Nov. 30, with the climatological peak of the season occurring in mid-September. USVI residents and visitors are encouraged to continue to be prepared.
In addition to obtaining weather information from the NWS 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.
Graduates from My Brother’s Workshop celebrate a major milestone, tossing their caps high outside the facility where they developed skills, resilience, and hope for a brighter future. (Photos courtesy Chrystie Payne and Jenny Hawkes at My Brother’s Workshop)
As My Brother’s Workshop faces a steep drop in government funding, leaders of the nonprofit say they’re working hard to keep programs running — and want the community to understand what’s at stake.
Established in 2007, MBW began as a grassroots effort to provide at-risk youth in the Virgin Islands with alternatives to crime and gun violence.
“Our vision is to end gun violence in the Virgin Islands, and we do that through a holistic approach of mentorship, education, and counseling,” said Chrystie Payne, the program and development director at MBW.
A young MBW trainee carefully measures wood, gaining hands-on skills that help steer Virgin Islands youth away from violence. (Photos courtesy Chrystie Payne and Jenny Hawkes at My Brother’s Workshop)
The program currently serves 41 young people, both male and female, ages 16 to 24, by teaching valuable skills in construction, woodworking, agriculture, and culinary arts. The workshop focuses on building real-world experience that trainees can carry into the job market through the program’s job placement efforts.
MBW doesn’t just focus on jobs, though. When the program first began, it focused on helping young people find employment and earn a living. However, as the organization expanded, it became evident that students required additional support.
“We have to help each individual, meet them where they’re at,” said Jenny Hawkes, the executive director of MBW.
Chef Julius Jackson guides a trainee through the finer points of food prep at My Brother’s Workshop’s culinary arts program. (Photos courtesy Chrystie Payne and Jenny Hawkes at My Brother’s Workshop)
The program also includes a licensed social worker, who plays a key role in identifying warning signs and connecting students with resources, such as the Family Resource Center or the Human Services Department, when needed.
As the program grows to meet more of those needs, funding has become a concern for the organization.
Inside MBW Café and Bakery, a showcase of locally made treats with a deeper purpose: funding the life-changing programs at My Brother’s Workshop through every bite sold. (Photos courtesy Chrystie Payne and Jenny Hawkes at My Brother’s Workshop)
“It’s this weird thing with the government grants … Even though they (the local government) asked us to add a program in St. Croix in 2015, it was like they reduced the (grant) amount in St. Thomas and transferred it over to St. Croix,” said Hawkes.
“The grant used to be $100,000 per island. So $200,000 is now only $100,000 (total). And technically we’ve only received one quarter payment.”
“We did get some government grants back in 2012, which are the same ones that we’re operating on now,” said Hawkes. “But we’ve been reduced slowly over time … One of the grants — this is from the general appropriation grant allotment — they reduced it by 50%.”
“They’re a little hard on your budget because as you’re doing the forecasting, you don’t know exactly when the government’s going to release the funds, even though you’re still doing the services.”
This decrease in funding hasn’t just made things financially uncomfortable — it’s threatening the very future of the organization’s work.
MBW recently completed construction on a new $7 million workforce development facility, which Payne and Hawkes say will allow MBW to double or even triple the number of youth they serve each year. But without additional funding from grants to match that growth, the facility can’t operate at its full capacity.
The welcoming entrance of My Brother’s Workshop stands ready to greet future trainees. (Photos courtesy Chrystie Payne and Jenny Hawkes at My Brother’s Workshop)
“To receive that kind of a reduction in our grant from the local government is kind of frustrating,” said Hawkes.
“We’re about to be able to double and triple our number of students. So what would make sense is actually increasing the government allotment … By reducing, it just puts more pressure on us to either raise it through the products that we’re selling or through private donations,” said Hawkes.
Funding is the top priority for My Brother’s Workshop, with Payne and Hawkes emphasizing that money is essential to keep their services running.
Payne and Hawkes describe MBW as a proven system that works — but say it needs consistent funding to keep the doors open.
They also stress the importance of community awareness and support, not just asking for donations, but spreading the word about the positive impact the institution has on local youth.
“We’re so incredibly grateful to our supporters … There’s so many people already doing enough. We just want to spread awareness and try to cast as wide a net as we possibly can to make sure that we’re able to keep this program going,” said Payne.
To help with the recent funding issues, MBW has launched a new fundraising campaign. One supporter has pledged to match all donations up to $25,000 through Aug. 30. The campaign aims to raise critical funds and awareness to keep programs running and expand support for local youth.
If you are interested in donating, click here.
The Virgin Islands Youth Advocacy Coalition announces the launch of its Digital Bridge Initiative, a program designed to advance the digital literacy of older adults in the Virgin Islands.
Funded by the AARP Community Challenge Grant, this six-month initiative pairs tech-savvy high school and college students with seniors aged 50 and older. The program aims to foster meaningful intergenerational connections while equipping older residents with essential digital skills to navigate an increasingly technology-driven society. Detailed information and registration options are available on VIYAC’s program webpage.
Selected from a competitive pool of 3,450 applicants, VIYAC’s proposal highlights the urgent need to close the digital divide within the territory. Genevieve Whitaker, VIYAC’s president and cofounder, describes the Digital Bridge Initiative as a powerful tool for community connection. “We’re honored that AARP recognizes the urgent need to empower our seniors with digital tools. This initiative reduces isolation, improves access to critical services, and strengthens bonds between generations,” Whitaker said.
The core training component of the program will take place from mid-August to mid-November, delivered through three cohorts on both St. Croix and St. Thomas. Each cohort will participate in three Saturday sessions focused on practical digital skills. These hands-on, small-group workshops will cover topics such as smartphone and tablet use, online safety, cloud storage, telehealth services, and digital emergency preparedness.
VIYAC recently extended the youth mentor application deadline to Monday, marking the conclusion of the youth recruitment phase. With youth selection now wrapping up, senior participant recruitment is set to launch this week. Seniors interested in gaining digital confidence are encouraged to apply — participation is free and accessible.
Sessions will be hosted at community centers across St. Croix and St. Thomas to ensure island-wide access. VIYAC also welcomes support from local businesses and organizations, including device donations and volunteer space.
Founded in 2009, VIYAC is a youth-led organization committed to increasing civic engagement among Virgin Islanders aged 14–30. Known for its voter literacy programs, climate justice advocacy, and other community initiatives, VIYAC continues to expand its impact across the territory.
In his biweekly column, Langley Shazor speaks to issues important to men within the territory.
I take exception to the term “real men.” All men are real. We all exist. That phrase, for all its cultural traction, has become a flawed compass, often pointing us toward affluence, domination, violence, or emotional disconnection as if those are the markers of true masculinity. It’s macho nonsense dressed up as wisdom. This bootstrap ideology hasn’t advanced us; it’s fractured us. It hasn’t built men; it has built masks.
We’ve grown up being told what “real men” do. Real men don’t cry. Real men provide. Real men take charge. Real men don’t need help. But what if we stopped parroting these slogans and asked a harder question: are we whole? Because I know too many men, good men, successful men, who are built, but not whole. They’ve achieved status. They’ve built businesses, bodies, reputations. They’re respected in public but suffering in private. They’ve nailed the exterior, but inside, something’s still undone.
That’s the lie we inherited: that manhood is performance. That it’s grit without grace. That strength means silence. But what makes someone a high-caliber man is not how many burdens he carries, but whether he knows how to carry himself. It’s character. Emotional regulation. Introspection. Accountability. Leadership. Being a man of integrity, class, peace, patience, and humility. And more than that, it’s being consistent when no one’s looking, when there’s no praise or applause to chase. Not just in public, but behind closed doors. That’s where real strength lives.
But we haven’t been taught that. We’ve been taught to build, just not within. So, we have men who can dominate a room but can’t sit still with their own thoughts. Men who protect everyone else but never protect their peace (“Chasing Peace”, 7/6/25 anyone?). Men who are loyal to the grind but strangers to their own hearts. You’ll find them everywhere: on job sites, in pulpits, in corner offices. They look solid. But if you ask them how they’re really doing, they’ll flinch or deflect or make a joke. Because no one ever gave them the tools or permission to be honest, especially with themselves.
It’s not just individual men who pay the price for this. Our families do. Our communities do. Our children inherit these broken templates and build their own identities on top of them. Little boys who learn that being loud and angry is leadership. Little girls who learn that silence is strength. Relationships suffer. Brotherhoods die. Trust erodes. And all because we taught men to be functional but not full. Useful, but not rooted.
It’s time we reframe what manhood could mean. I said it in the post, and I’ll say it again: if we want to redefine this term, let it be about trustworthiness. About being dependable, and not simply the dependability to show up, but that your word is impenetrable. That when you say, “I got you”, that can be taken to the bank and deposited. About being the kind of person people can believe and believe in. A man who will do the right thing because it’s the right thing, not because someone’s watching or the cameras are rolling. That’s the standard. That’s the measure. Anything less is just as artificial and misleading as the social media masculinity metrics that keep us chasing the wind.
So, what does wholeness look like? It doesn’t mean being perfect. It means being complete. It means having the courage to ask for help when you need it. To apologize when you’re wrong. To sit with uncomfortable feelings instead of numbing them. It means building the emotional stamina to listen, reflect, and grow. It’s knowing who you are when no one’s validating you. It’s how you show up when there’s no incentive except self-respect.
The work of becoming whole is not glamorous. It won’t get you likes. It won’t impress the loudest circles. But it will give you peace. And it will make you the kind of man whose presence doesn’t just dominate but heals. The kind of man who knows how to lead without lording over. The kind who doesn’t just survive pressure but rises from it with grace.
Men like that don’t need to be told they’re “real.” They just are. And you can feel it. In how they speak. In how they handle correction. In how they protect their families and their principles without losing themselves. That’s not something you post. That’s something you prove — in the quiet, in the chaos, and in the commitment to grow, even when no one sees it but you.
If you’re already built, but you know there’s more, more healing to do, more self to uncover, more truth to embrace, good. You’re on the right path. Stay on it. Let’s build men who are whole, not just hard. Complete, not just competent. Let’s put the phrase “real men” to rest and start living in a way that no phrase can fully capture, only our character can.
Langley “Casual-Word” Shazor is a poet, author, publisher, entrepreneur, public speaking coach, podcast host, and pastor who is an advocate for youth and men. His goal is to enlighten, empower, and liberate those who are silenced, marginalized, and enslaved to self-destructive thoughts and behaviors. Visit thecasualword.com.
