Artists Guild of St. Croix Boasts New Energy on the Big Island

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Artists Guild of St. Croix Boasts New Energy on the Big Island
Artists Guild Members getting started on art project. (Source photo by Elisa McKay)
The Artists Guild of St. Croix is a project of the St. Croix Foundation for Community Development and is a welcoming membership for all artists on the big island. As a beacon of fellowship among artists since 2013, the Mission of the Artists Guild of St. Croix is to support and connect the island’s diverse community of visual artists.  The group boasts new energy on St. Croix after its recent hiatus. The Vision of the Artists Guild of St. Croix seeks to grow appreciation of the visual arts on the island and to encourage the visual artists, including budding and student artists, to explore and grow their creativity through instructional workshops, pop-up art markets, charitable events, and the Annual Artists Guild Art Show.    Mosaic tile/mixed media artist Cathy Booth is a longtime member of the Artists Guild. “I remember the fun I had with other Guild artists sharing our craft with the residents at the Flambouyant Gardens Senior Housing in Barron Spot and the fun they had learning. Unfortunately, Hurricane Maria created so much destruction at their apartments, renovations were necessary before the seniors could move back. The hurricane led to a hiatus in that program and also to the Guild’s regular meetings.”
Artists Guild members paiting the St. Croix map outline with found object…a brushless project. (Source photo by Elisa McKay)
Booth recalled other Guild outreach projects. There were some that benefited the youth on the island. “We had several mask-making workshops for children and a moko jumbie-making workshop for the youth.”  Despite the setbacks with the hurricane and then the pandemic, the Guild always kept up with their Annual Art Show at the Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts in downtown Frederiksted, Booth said. “We’re back and more vibrant than ever with new offerings.”
Near completion with the surrounding waters added to the artwork. (Source photo by Elisa McKay)
A recent meeting of the Guild on Sept. 21 was a hands-on workshop in the courtyard at CMCARTS. The project was to paint the map of St. Croix and the surrounding waters without using a brush. The goal was to paint with found objects and to use the USVI official madras colors of turquoise, royal blue, pink, white, yellow, green, and red. The completed artwork will be a donation for the “Art of Healing for Cancer Survivors Exhibit and Silent Auction.” A trip down memory lane inspired the Guild artists to reminisce about painters like Jackson Pollock, who laid his canvas on the floor or on the wall and flung and poured ropes of paint across the surface in his “drip” technique that defined his Abstract Expressionist Style. Or, the famous Vincent Van Gogh, who often used a palette knife to replace a brush. Another “brushless” painter was Yves Klein, who would cover female models in his paint and then have his “living brushes” lie or drag themselves across the canvas to create images.
Completed map (Photo courtesy DJ Kissinger)
Artists Guild members were very innovative in their approach to brushless painting with a variety of found items: spools of thread, bubble wrap, straws, the tread from the sole of a discarded shoe, a mesh bag from fresh fruit, bottle lids, a piece of a sea fan, a comb, and many more inconceivable “brushes,” gave texture and pattern to their finished project. They did it! Their combined efforts, artful expressions, and versatility resulted in a project that will surely bring in a handsome donation for the upcoming art auction.
Completed project (Photo courtesy DJ Kissinger)
Debra “DJ” Kissinger shared her Guild experiences with the Source. “When I arrived on the island, the Artists Guild was dormant due to COVID, except for the Annual Art Show. Now, the Guild is up and running again,” she said. “Each time we meet, we work on a project to benefit our community or dabble in a new art form or share a new technique. It’s fun!” she added. Kissinger said she came seeking to learn from a community of established artists and found herself welcomed as an equal.  “Now, I’m on the board and we are looking forward to creating new opportunities for both old and new members. In 2025, we will be hosting several en plein-air – outdoor painting events at local venues. We will also have a mosaic workshop and another mask-making workshop,” she added.  There’s a new spirit about the group, Kissinger said. During COVID, she saw budding artists who were born by watching YouTube videos. New artists moved to St. Croix. According to Kissinger, some artists who have been here have faded into the background. She wants to encourage these groups to join the Artists Guild so that “we can all learn from each other.” The 2024 Annual Art Show was one of the largest Artists Guild shows yet. It was a smashing success, Kissinger said, in terms of the variety of media presented and sales! “There is a lot of talent in the Artists Guild of St. Croix.” Kissinger is most known for her underwater photography. She also considers herself a budding mixed media upcycle artist. She creates art out of things that others discard. “My favorite question from those who view my art is, ‘What is that made out of?’ or ‘How did you make that?’” The next meeting of the Artists Guild will convene on Saturday, Nov. 2, 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm in the courtyard at CMCARTS. The workshop, “Under the Sea” Artistree, will be led by local artist Isabelle Picard. All supplies will be provided by the Guild. Participants will paint 4” x 4” canvases with a focus on background and detail. The tiny works of art will decorate a Christmas tree that will benefit the St. George’s Village Botanical Garden when auctioned at their annual gala in December. This workshop will be an opportunity for folks to learn from a local artist, improve their skills, and give back to the community. Guidelines will be given for the Annual Art Show opening Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025, and running through Feb. 1, 2025, at CMCARTS.  The Annual Art Show is open to all 2025 Artists Guild members and all 2025 CMCARTS members. Original work in 2D and 3D created within the last year and not previously shown on St. Croix will be accepted.  The entry deadline is Dec. 10, 2024, and work must be dropped off by Jan. 7, 2025, at CMCARTS. Artists Guild Events and Workshops:  Collage, Mosaics, Masks and more…in March, April, & October 2025. Artists Guild of St.Croix Board of Directors: Matt Jarvis, president; DJ Kissinger, vice-president; Lyn Voytershark, secretary; Kathleen Newman, treasurer. Members-at-Large:  Jean Bishop, Cathy Booth, Joyce Hickok, Tamara Michael, Riya Stratton,  For more information or to become a member: artistsguildofstcroix.wordpress.com cmcarts.org Call CMCARTS: 340-772-2622

VIPD and VIOHS Push for Child Safety With Free Car Seat Inspections

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VIPD and VIOHS Push for Child Safety With Free Car Seat Inspections
In observance of Child Safety Week, the Virgin Islands Police Department, the Virgin Islands Office of Highway Safety, and Child Passenger Safety Technicians (CPST) provided free car seat safety checks to caregivers with young children, the departments announced. Nationwide, there is a strong emphasis on providing education, resources, and services to promote child transportation laws and reduce the risk of crash injuries and fatalities. However, territory-wide, these services are available year-round, according to the press release. On “Seat Check Saturday,” CPS Technicians assisted caregivers with children in car seats at the Wendy’s parking lot on St. Croix and the Edith Williams Alternative Academy on St. Thomas. Data collected from the events showed that 94.7 percent of the car seats checked had usage errors that could cause harm to child crash victims, the press release stated. Common errors included loose installation, loose or twisted straps, misplaced chest clips, and failure to utilize all clips and buckles. Booster seats were also issued to caregivers in need, the release stated. “At this rate, if you have a car seat, it is likely that your child may be riding at risk,” cautioned VIOHS Occupant Protection Coordinator Denise Gomes. “Each caregiver that we assisted was well-intentioned, thinking that their young passengers were safe by virtue of being in a safety seat. A free 20-minute safety check can save families a lifetime of regret.” The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states that car crashes are the leading cause of pediatric fatalities. NHTSA data also shows that car seats and booster seats are effective in reducing the risk of crash-related injuries for children. However, it’s important to use the car seat according to the manufacturer’s instructions for it to be effective. CPSTs are certified to help caregivers choose, use, and install these life-saving devices safely, the release stated. For more information about child passenger safety or to schedule a car seat safety check, contact the V.I. Office of Highway Safety through Director Daphne O’Neal at daphne.oneal@vipd.vi.gov, or Occupant Protection Planner/Coordinator Denise Gomes at denise.gomes@vipd.vi.gov or contact the office at 340-473-7383.

Ocean Point Terminals Gives $130K Gift to UVI’s Process Technology Program

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Ocean Point Terminals Gives $130K Gift to UVI’s Process Technology Program
From left to right: Ze’shea Graham (student), Dr. Victoria Henry (UVI assistant professor), Khalil Lockhart (student), Bobby Ferris (UVI faculty), Omarai Velasquez (student), Meridith Prince (OPT training supervisor/UVI part-time faculty), Josiah Francis (student), Ahijah John (student), Dr. Safiya George (UVI president), Caroline Polydore-Simon (UVI Director of Philanthropy), Nathan John (student), Jeff Charles (OPT COO), Erica Parsons (OPT Stakeholder Relations), Rodney Ramcharan (student). Submitted photo)
The University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) was pleased to accept a $130,000 gift from Ocean Point Terminals to support the University’s Process Technology Program at a check presentation event on Wednesday at the Research and Technology Park on the University’s Albert A. Sheen Campus on St. Croix. Ocean Point Chief Operating Officer Jeffrey Charles presented the check as part of the company’s annual commitment to support training, education and workforce development programs at the University of the Virgin Islands. “We are very excited to continue this partnership with UVI. This program is very important to us as we are able to invest in the education of process technology students at UVI and have many of those students return to us as some of the best operators and professionals,” Charles said.   “It is very rewarding to continue to partner with UVI and it is our pleasure to renew this commitment for the eighth year in a row.” Process technology students and faculty were present on Wednesday as Charles presented the check to UVI President Safiya George. “We are very grateful for the generosity that Ocean Point Terminals has shown to the Process Technology Program,” said George. “We know that our students will continue to benefit immensely from your investment in them, as they continue their educational journey to become accomplished process technology professionals.” Graduates from the Associate of Applied Science degree program in process technology go on to have successful careers with local and international companies as well as pursue advanced degrees in chemistry, engineering, computer science, business and medicine. Ocean Point’s gift provides support for 11 courses at UVI. Ocean Point Terminals Ocean Point Terminals is a world-class energy logistics hub centrally located in the Western Atlantic Basin facilitating the storage, segregation, blending and global movement of crude oils, fuel oils, LNG, bunker, gasoline, diesel, jet fuel and liquid petroleum gases. Customers include integrated global oil majors, global infrastructure/distribution network operators, refiners and global trading houses. The facility consists of 167 tanks, with a capacity of approximately 34 million barrels and deep-water access to 11 docks including an offshore single point mooring (SPM) buoy capable of loading and discharging vessels up to VLCC size. Ocean Point Terminals is currently the 5th largest active marine oil and products terminal in the world.

David Eddie Dies

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David Eddie Dies
Flamboyant trees in the winter (Source photo by Gail Karlsson)
It is with great sadness that the family of David Eddie announces the passing of their beloved brother on Oct. 1. He was predeceased by his father, Milton Eddie; and mother, Felicia Eddie. David is survived by his sisters: Juliette Eddie Noel, Avanell Eddie, Yvette Eddie and Alvina Bernard; brother-in-law, Orville Caines; nieces: Monique Starling, Cherine Kennings, Kyaa Barry and Shalaya Eddie; great-nieces: Angelique Duzant, Josinya Serrano and Jamira Cooper; great-nephew, Darryl Bennett Jr.; special friends: Lionel Pratt Sr., Gladys Harrigan and Priscilla Pratt Allembert; and numerous close family and friends, and loved ones abroad. David’s Homegoing services will be held at 9 a.m. followed by a funeral service at 10 a.m., Wednesday, Oct. 23, at Turnbull’s Funeral Home. David will be deeply missed by his family and all his friends. Funeral arrangements are by Turnbull’s Funeral Home & Crematory Services of Charlotte Amalie www.turnbullsfuneralhomevi.com

Bar Burglar Caught Off Guard at CEKA After Check Cashing Scheme

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Bar Burglar Caught Off Guard at CEKA After Check Cashing Scheme
Police arrested a man at Cyril E. King Airport on St. Thomas on Thursday after an investigation revealed that he had stolen and deposited checks totaling $14,117.56 from a local bar, the V.I. Police Department reported. On Oct. 12, detectives from the Economic Crime Unit started investigating a complaint filed by St. Thomas Restaurant Group, which manages Sapphire Beach Bar. The investigation revealed that on Oct. 9, Ronald John Mosholder burglarized the Sapphire Beach Bar and took four checks in the amounts of $9,500.00, $2,200.00, $917.56, and $1,500.00 that were payable to vendors and an employee. Further investigation showed that on Oct. 10, Mosholder cashed the $9,500.00 check at Merchants Commercial Bank and deposited the remaining three checks ($1,500.00, $917.56, and $2,200.00) into his First Bank account using mobile deposit between Oct. 10 and 11, according to the police report. On Thursday, Mosholder, 41, was apprehended by the Economic Crime Unit at the Cyril E. King Airport while attempting to leave St. Thomas. He was arrested and charged with burglary in the third degree, obtaining money by false pretense, and grand larceny. After being transported to the Richard Callwood Command for processing, his bail was set at $25,000. Mosholder was unable to post bail at the time of the arrest and was turned over to the Bureau of Corrections pending his advice of rights hearing, the police report stated.

Open forum: VI Democratic Party Hails Legislature’s Approval of Extension of State of Emergency

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Open forum: VI Democratic Party Hails Legislature’s Approval of Extension of State of Emergency
Carol Burke is the state chair of the Democratic Party of the Virgin Islands. (Submitted photo)
The Democratic Party of the Virgin Islands stands firmly behind the actions taken by the 35th Legislature in its recent legislative session.  The rigors of productive legislative work are realized by the people and in the quality-of-life experiences. The in-depth review of proposals by committees of jurisdiction serves as the impetus for sound and progressive legislation for Virgin Islanders. We applaud the legislature, its president, Novelle E. Francis, and the democratic majority for their crucial decision in approving the extension of the state of emergency. This decision is a testament to our unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of Virgin Islands residents. State Chair Carol Burke expressed, “The first branch of government must understand and prioritize the needs of the people. The subsidies to the Water and Power Authority (WAPA) by the central government are evident, and to have done otherwise would have been catastrophic consequences to bear, including buffering rate hikes.” We agree that WAPA’s management should be transparent and responsive to the legislature’s requests. WAPA’s CEO, Karl Knight, has thus far demonstrated a willingness to develop a strong relationship with the legislature, and we are assured that his leadership will foster a level of professionalism that will profoundly change the utility. “As WAPA navigates trends in the global oil market and its impact on local consumption, we understand the need to extend the state of emergency as consumers.  We urge WAPA not to squander the extension but develop short-term and long-term strategies to improve its finances and stabilize the utility’s operations,” Burke concluded. Virgin Islands Democratic Party

Fredrica Priscilla Burt Dies

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Fredrica Priscilla Burt Dies
Fredrica Priscilla Burt
The family of Fredrica Priscilla Burt is saddened to announce her passing. Her life began in Old Road Village, Antigua on Aug. 24, 1946, and ended on Sept. 30, 2024, in Tamarac, Fla. She was preceded in death by her husband, Pastor Norton Burt Sr.; her parents: John and Olive Pelle of Old Road Village, Antigua; and brother, Abel Pelle, also of Antigua. As a young lady, she attended Old Road Primary School and worked at Curtain Bluff Hotel. Fredrica married Norton Burt Sr. on Nov. 20, 1969, a relationship which remained until his passing in December 2015. In 1970, she gave birth to their son and moved to St. Croix where she began to build a life. She went on to graduate from St. Croix Central High night school and attended what is now known as the University of the Virgin Islands. She worked for the V.I. Housing Authority as a secretary for over 20 years until her retirement. In her early years on St. Croix, she attended St. Luke’s AME Church in Grove Place. However, she soon joined her husband to attend the Apostolic Faith Church at Strawberry Hill where she remained for over 30 years. There, she served in the choir, as a Sunday school teacher, and as president of the Women’s Fellowship. Upon Norton Sr.’s passing, due to health concerns, she relocated to South Florida where she remained until her death. She had many close neighbors and friends that were very important to her. Throughout her years, she has met and influenced many inside and outside of the church, and she was loved and cared for greatly by many. Special thanks to the staff and leadership of Rebecca’s House who showed her extra love and care in her final years. Mrs. Burt leaves to celebrate her life, sons: Norton Burt Jr. of Fort Lauderdale, Fla. and Jeffrey Burt of Boston, Mass.; daughters- in- law: Helen Huggins-Burt and Florencia Burt; grandchildren: Rhyann, Jonathan, David, Daniel, Jeffrey Jr. (his wife and children), and Major Abigail Burt of the United States Air Force. She also leaves to celebrate her life, her brothers and their families. The family of the late Abel Pelle, his wife, Janet, their children and grandchildren. Randolph Pelle of Guyana and his children. Reverend Dr. Belgrave Pelle, his wife, Catherine, and their family of New York. Norvel Pelle, his wife, Darlene, and their children from California. Her sisters: Adeline Pelle and Marilyn Phillip as well as her children and grandchildren. Her brother-in-law, Grayson Burt of New York. Her in-laws: the Burt family of England and Canada along with all their families. There were also many close family members and friends who loved her. A viewing will be held at 10 a.m. followed by a funeral service at 11 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 25, at the Apostolic Faith Mission, Strawberry Hill. Interment will be at Kingshill Cemetery.

Mavis E. Williams Dies

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Mavis E. Williams Dies
Mavis E. Williams
Mavis E. Williams was born on July 14, 1938, in Antigua, to Jane James and Raymond James. She passed away on Oct. 8, on St. Croix, USVI. Mavis received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She was loved and a well-known registered nurse. Mavis is survived by her brothers: Joshua Watikis, Emanuel Joseph, Hezekah Lewis and James Joseph; daughters: Debra J. Davis and Edith Joseph; grandchildren: Andrea Joseph, Andrew Joseph, Sarah Franklin, Jovon Joseph, Jovon Joseph II and Brad Joseph II; nephews: Terry Samsen and Dave Carr; and special friends: Mrs. Brooks, Mrs. Trim, Mr. Mike and Mrs. Lansiquot The funeral service is scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 20, at Christiansted Seventh-day Adventist. The viewing will be at 1 p.m., the funeral service will be at 2 p.m.

Joseph Ruel Smith Dies

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Joseph Ruel Smith Dies
Joseph Ruel Smith
Joseph Ruel Smith, also known as “Peter,” was born on April 26, 1947, on St. Kitts and Nevis to the late Anne Gillard and Joseph Gillard. In 1990, he migrated to St. Thomas, USVI, and became a naturalized citizen. For several years, Joseph worked in the maintenance field at Winward Passage and Tutu Park Mall. He peacefully passed away on Sept. 29, 2024, in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. He was a beloved father, grandfather and friend. Joseph will be missed by those who had the privilege of spending time with him He was preceded in death by Shelly Gillard and James Smith. Joseph Ruel Smith is survived by his eight children: Necil Smith, Gregory Smith, Juneey Francis, Terrance Smith, Anna Berroa, Vanessa Smith, Dennis Smith and Shela Smith; and nine grandchildren: James Roberson Junior, Jacquan Smith, Thriscan Hendrickson, Tekia Smith, Jaydecia Smith, Jaydecia Smith, Annalecia Smith, Alexa Berroa, Angelina Pino and Druicanna Francis. He was also survived by eleven siblings: Catherine Gillard, Naomi Gillard, Alice Gillard, Iona Gillard, Hurdeth Gillard, Lincoln Gillard, Ernest Gillard, Courteney Gillard, Lester Gillard, Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to the first viewing from 5-7 p.m., on Wednesday, Oct. 23, at Celestial Chapel of Dan Hurley Home for Funerals. The second viewing will be held at 10 a.m. followed by a funeral service at 11 a.m., on Thursday, Oct. 24, at Wesley Methodist Church. Interment will be at Eastern Cemetery. Funeral arrangements are under the care of Dan Hurley Home for Funerals and Cremation Centers of St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix. For online condolences or to share a special memory, visit our website at www.hurleydavisfuneralhome.com

Dennisson R. Stewart Dies at 82

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Dennisson R. Stewart Dies at 82
Dennisson R. Stewart
Dennisson R. Stewart, also known as “Dennis,” “Papa” or “Pa,” of Estate Humbug died on Sept. 26. He was 82 years old. He was preceded in death by his mother, Meta Stewart; father, Samuel Stewart; sister, Dorcus; brothers-in-law, Clarance Millington and Ulrick Caton; and sister-in-law, Arlene Stewart. He is survived by his wife, Edlyn Stewart; daughter, Karen Stewart; son, Kerry Stewart; grandchildren: Kerrianne Browne, Jada Harris and Kerry Jaden Stewart; sisters: Dawn Millington and Dorrel Caton; brother, Desmond Stewart; daughter-in-law, Leah Stewart; brother-in-law, Kenny Forde; and sisters-in-law, Lucille Forde, Margaret Charles, Joan Charles and Maria Charles-Gordon. He is also survived by special friends: Carlene Smith, Mr. and Mrs. Bruney, Michael Bicette and family, Jan Stephen and family, Adrian Barnes and family, Gregory Jenkins, Alfredo Rivera and family, Victor Peterson and family, Wendy Garcia, and the Freeman family; as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends too numerous to mention. The viewing will begin at 10 a.m. followed by a funeral service at 11 a.m., Friday, Oct. 25, at James Memorial Funeral Chapel. Interment will be at Kingshill Cemetery. Professional services are entrusted to James Memorial Funeral Home Inc.
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