The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority acknowledges the continued impact to customers across the St. Thomas–St. John district, as service rotations persist longer than initially anticipated due to complications encountered during the generation restart process.
The Randolph Harley Power Plant on St. Thomas. (Source photo by Kit MacAvoy)
Monday, crews made significant progress on Unit 27; however, challenges during the restart and testing phase have delayed its return to service. While repairs and final assembly are largely complete, additional time is required to safely stabilize the unit and ensure reliable operation before it can be fully brought online. WAPA remains focused on completing this process as quickly and safely as possible, recognizing that Unit 27 still represents the most immediate opportunity to increase available generation capacity.
Because WAPA’s largest generating units are offline, the system does not currently have enough capacity to meet peak demand between 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 p.m. Once online, Unit 27 is expected to eliminate the need for rotations.
At this time, the majority of resources remain concentrated on Unit 27 to support the fastest path toward increased generation. Until additional capacity is restored and fully stabilized, customers may continue to experience both scheduled service rotations and unplanned outages as system demand fluctuates.
WAPA understands the toll these ongoing disruptions are having on the community, especially following expectations that service conditions would improve. We sincerely thank the public for its continued support and assure customers that crews are working extensively to restore stable and reliable service.
Customers are encouraged to remain connected to WAPA by signing up for outage alerts and regularly checking official communication channels for the latest updates on restoration progress and service rotations.
The CaribbeanMuseum Center for the Arts presents their Spring Equinox exhibit from April 11 to May 23.The group exhibition is curated by artist Lucien Downes and showcases Virgin Islands artists celebrating a spring theme. (Submitted photo)
The April 11 opening reception features live music by vocalist Irene Ali with Kevin Williams on pan and small bites crafted by Cultured Delights from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
The group exhibition is curated by artist Lucien Downes and showcases Virgin Islands artists celebrating a spring theme. This time of year is marked as a time to embrace movement and growth and these themes are interpreted by local artists in conceptually broad dialogues or as literal as the artist chooses.
The showcase will be on view through May 23. Artwork will be for sale and supports local artists and CMCArts’ educational exhibition programming.
The St. Thomas–St. John District and the St. Croix District School Food Authority announce upcoming training sessions for site supervisors participating in the 2026 Summer Food Service Program, which will operate from June 8 through July 17.
Fruit and vegetable that are grown in the Virgin Islands. (Photo courtesy VI Local Food and Farm Council)
In the St. Thomas–St. John District, individuals interested in the SFSP must attend one of the required training sessions scheduled for Friday, May 15, or Wednesday, May 27, from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the CAHS Career Center. In the St. Croix District, training sessions will be offered on Monday, May 18, or Wednesday, May 27, from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Alfredo Andrews School Auditorium.
Attendance at one of the scheduled training sessions is mandatory for all sites seeking to receive meals for children participating in the program. To ensure smooth operations and prevent disruptions, it is strongly encouraged that more than one representative from each site attend a training session.
Applications for the 2026 Summer Food Service Program will be available beginning April 7, at the School Food Authority offices located at #21 Subbase on St. Thomas and at the Virgin Islands Department of Education Main Headquarters on St. Croix. Applicants must complete the application in its entirety and submit the original document along with all required supporting materials, as copies or duplications will not be accepted. Interested applicants may also scan the QR code to access the application. Deadline to submit is Tuesday, May 5.
For additional information or if you have any questions, please contact: STTJ District Bertilia Pacquete, Program Supervisor or Dian Petersen, Acting Program Supervisor at (340) 774-0100 ext. 8304. STX District: Irivette Rivera or Lawrence Jacobs Jr., Program Supervisors at (340)773-1095 ext. 7073 & 7018.
WAPA has planned the electrical rotation schedule for Tuesday, April 7.
This schedule is subject to change based on load demand, and restoration times may be delayed by up to 15 minutes.
9:30am-11:30am
Feeder 8B
11:30am-1:30pm
Feeder 7A
1:30pm-3:30pm
Feeder 8A
3:30pm-5:30pm
Feeder 6A
5:30pm-7:30pm
Feeder 10B
Feeder 8B
7:30pm-9:30pm
Feeder 9C
9:30pm-11:30pm
Feeder 7B
Tents line the sandy shoreline as Camp Irie sets up its beachside campsite on St. Croix, complete with a shared cooking and gathering area for the family’s Easter camping tradition. (Photo courtesy Naydyeah Acoy-Thomas)
On the shores of St. Croix, where Easter camping has long been a cultural tradition, one family is bringing new life to an old pastime — with a modern twist rooted in connection, creativity, and community.
For Naydyeyah Acoy-Thomas and her family, camping was once a regular part of life on the island’s west end. But like many traditions across the Virgin Islands, it was disrupted by back-to-back challenges.
“Before the hurricanes, we used to camp on the west side a lot,” she said. “Then after the hurricanes and COVID, we went about seven years without camping.”
That changed two years ago when her family made a conscious decision to reconnect.
“We decided we needed to do more family-oriented things,” Thomas explained. “So we started bringing back traditions for major holidays, and camping was one of them.”
This year, their return evolved into something even more intentional — a fully planned experience they named Camp Irie.
The idea was simple: if they were going to camp, they were going to do it in a way that everyone would enjoy.
“We said when we do it, we’re going to make it fun,” she said. “My mom, Andrea, and my sister Sativa really spearheaded everything.”
Early morning light breaks over the shoreline on St. Croix as families enjoy the calm waters during Easter camping, a tradition known for its peaceful sunrises and community atmosphere. (Photo courtesy Naydyeah Acoy-Thomas)
Each day of the camping trip carried its own theme, turning the experience into a multiday event. Activities ranged from karaoke and talent shows to game nights and even an all-white private dinner set against the backdrop of the beach.
One of the most meaningful moments came on the first night.
“We had a bonding night where we picked questions from a bowl and just talked,” Thomas said. “It really helped bring everyone closer.”
Food was another central part of the experience, carefully planned and shared among family members.
“We had an itinerary for meals, and we never ate the same thing twice,” she said.
In keeping with local customs, Good Friday was observed with traditional meals.
“We didn’t eat meat that day — we had saltfish and herring,” she explained.
Other nights included home-cooked dishes and even a catered private dinner, offering a mix of tradition and convenience. The family pooled resources for groceries, keeping costs manageable while ensuring there was plenty to eat.
Family members of Camp Irie gather for an all-white private dinner on the beach during their Easter camping celebration on St. Croix, one of several themed nights. (Photo courtesy Naydyeah Acoy-Thomas)
Beyond the activities and meals, what stood out most was the intentional effort to unplug.
“We had a no-phones rule,” Thomas said. “We put the phones away and just spent time talking, playing games, and being present. Those are moments you can’t get back.”
Despite initial concerns about discomfort, she found the experience surprisingly rewarding.
“I thought it would be sandy and uncomfortable but figuring everything out with my family made it fun,” she said. “It made me feel like I could really do this.”
Her favorite part of the entire experience wasn’t any single event, but the quiet moments in between.
“Hearing the ocean wake you up in the morning — that was my favorite,” she said. “We’d sit by the water, put our feet in, listen to music, and just talk. Those are moments I can’t replace.”
As Easter camping continues to be a defining cultural experience on St. Croix, efforts like Camp Irie show how tradition can evolve while still holding onto its core purpose — bringing people together.
For those considering trying it for the first time, Thomas offers simple advice:
“Be open-minded. You might be a little uncomfortable, but it’s worth it,” she said. “It’s priceless to spend that kind of time with family.”
And for her family, one thing is already certain — Camp Irie is here to stay.
From runway walks to real-world opportunities, Style Week 2026 is set to spotlight the region’s rising talent as JG Management presents the 13th annual Virgin Islands Model of the Year Competition and the eighth annual Style Fashion Week, a platform that continues to open doors to the global fashion industry.
Models walk the runway during a previous Style Week event. This year’s competition will bring together contestants from St. Croix, St. Thomas, and Tortola for the first time. (Photo courtesy JG Management Inc.)
Organizer and founder of JG Management Inc., Jason Gardner, said this year’s competition will feature six contestants across three divisions — child, commercial, and fashion — with two participants in each category. The competition includes both male and female models.
Competing in the Child Division are Gianna Gugger of St. Croix and Kegan Brookes of the British Virgin Islands.
In the Commercial Division, contestants are Jeniqua Weekes of St. Croix and Malacoy Levons of the British Virgin Islands.
The Fashion Division includes Patricia Shakira Hendrickson of the British Virgin Islands and Mystiq Flax-Charles of St. Thomas.
Winners in each division will receive a round-trip ticket to New York City in July, where they will participate in agency visits with the purpose of securing professional representation.
“We go and visit different agencies in hopes of representation,” Gardner said. “We also have workshops, sightseeing, and we take them to see a Broadway show. It’s a full experience.”
Winners will also receive a management contract with JG Management and Sandy Bass International.
Gardner said contestants are selected through an annual audition process held in November, with different expectations depending on the division.
“For commercial, there’s no strict height requirement. We look for personality, we look at their walk, and we even give them a commercial script to read,” he said. “They have to have great energy.”
He added that commercial modeling also requires a polished look suited for advertising.
“When it comes to fashion modeling, it’s very specific in terms of height and body type and features,” he said. “They have to have strong, striking features.”
According to Gardner, judges are ultimately looking for contestants who are ready to compete in a demanding industry.
“New York is by far the most competitive,” he said. “So it takes a lot of preparation and determination.”
The competition includes multiple segments, but Gardner emphasized that one stands above the rest.
“The one-on-one is by far the most important,” he said. “That’s where they sit with the judges and really have to shine and show who they are.”
Additional segments include swimwear, TV commercial, commercial print, fashion print, couture, runway, high fashion and more. However, top scores in individual segments do not necessarily determine the overall winner.
Style Week events begin Thursday, with an invitation-only VIP Welcome Style Mixer at the JG Management Studio from 6 to 9 p.m. The event will feature light delicacies, complimentary drinks, networking opportunities, and a fashion presentation. Attendees are encouraged to follow a “trendy chic” dress code, and an RSVP is required.
Events continue Friday, with the Red, Black, and Silver Party at Sidney Lee Center, where contestants will meet judges and make their first impressions.
“That first impression is very important,” Gardner said.
The main competition will take place Saturday, also at the Sidney Lee Center.
Gardner said this year marks a major milestone for the event.
“This is the first time we’re going to have models from St. Croix, St. Thomas, and Tortola all competing together,” he said. “We’ve never had that before.”
Contestants have been preparing for months leading up to the event.
“They train and prepare for four months, and we offer workshops as part of the package,” Gardner said. “Every year we aim to raise the bar higher and higher.”
He added that audiences can expect a dynamic and creative show.
“This year for sure, I truly believe we’re going to see some very creative fashions,” Gardner said.
The week concludes with an invitation-only island-style brunch on Sunday.
Tickets for the public events can be purchased at JG Management and Jane’s Bridal in Mount Pleasant, and from Sweet Magnolias Boutique on Strand Street in Christiansted.
The U.S. Virgin Islands Soccer Federation has officially announced the Women’s National Team squad set to compete in the final two matches of the 2026 CONCACAF Women’s Qualifiers. The Dashing Eagles will close out their qualifying campaign with matches against Mexico and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, as they look to finish strong on the regional stage.
The selected squad reflects a balanced group of experienced players and emerging talent, all committed to representing the Virgin Islands with pride, discipline, and competitive ambition.
Women’s National Team Roster:
Kyliz Osorio, Mackiesh Taylor, Abigail Speakman, Jenna Rehm, Kelsey Hill, Naya Vialva, Brianna Brudy, Reagan Hood, Olivia Crikelair, Jade Browne, Kathryn Turner, Elizabeth Vega, Josie Couch, Lita Frost, Maia Foley, Zaniya Gonzague, Neah Williams, Isabella Nieves.
Team Staff:
Head Coach: Stefan De Four
Assistant Coaches: Pierre Hosang, Anna Scott
Goalkeeper Coach: David Blaise
Team Physio: Kern Meloney
Fitness Coach: Casbert Waisome
Team Manager: Bernetta Browne-Nelson
Equipment Manager: Shanicia Dyer
Team Media: Lance Chardon II, Christian Restrespo
The USVISF encourages fans and supporters across the territory to rally behind the team as they continue to inspire the next generation and elevate the women’s game in the Virgin Islands.
Seachange and sevenminussseven, both with a rich history of partnering and collaborating with the community, are joining forces to bring local and international artists to the Seachange showroom.
(Submitted photo)
This marks the beginning of an ongoing relationship, exhibiting art in Seachange and providing sevenminusseven’s large inventory to help curate individuals’ and design clients’ collections.
The partnership comes as sevenminusseven closed its previous gallery space and will provide its exclusive artists’ works, along with potential cultural programming hand in hand with Seachange. To debut this new collaboration, Seachange and sevenminusseven are proud to announce an art opening featuring the renowned artist Ray Miles on April 10 from 4–8 pm in the Seachange showroom at Yacht Haven Grande. Wine will be provided and the event is free to attend.
We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Alexis D. Brodhurst who passed at age 62 on March 15, 2026.
Alexis D. Brodhurst
Alexis was a devoted caregiver who worked with Turning Point, and then at Continuum Care. She will be missed by colleagues and clients alike, who were all touched by her caring, gentle spirit.
She is preceded in death by her mother, Chrisita Milligan, and her father, Winston Brodhurst Sr.
She is survived by her daughter, Alyssa Mitcham; her grandchildren, Bria Mitcham and Patricia Foster; and her great granddaughter, Badriya Richards.
She also leaves her sisters: Lorrianna Brodhurst, Priscilla Brodhurst, Ericilda Coleman, Aretha Brodhurst, Nicole Brodhurst, Lizzette Estien, Anna Pinney, Jacquelyn Brodhurst, Decha Brodhurst, Glenda Brodhurst, and Bina Brodhurst.
Brothers: Sean Rawlins, Jordon Brodhurst, Waldemar Brodhurst, Winston Brodhurst, Jr. (St.X), Craig Brodhurst, Michael Brodhurst, Dannel, Michael, Winston Brodhurst Jr. (NY), Mayer, Michael (Africa), Keewan Brodhurst, and Winston Brodhurst (Texas).
Many other relatives and friends to include the Milligan Family, the Bates Family, Natalie Franklin, Debra Franklin Maragh, Cherise Felix, John Franklin, the Matthew Family, Dondre Richards, Alyce Orange Louison, Liz Aubert, Jennifer Rhymer, Glenn Miller, Luis Martinez Cruz, Felicia Bryan, the management, clients and staff of Turning Point, the management, clients and staff of Continuum Care, the management and staff of Crucian Gold, many other relatives and friends too numerous to mention.
The funeral will be held May 12 at the Kingshill Funeral Home at 10 a.m. Relatives and friends are asked to wear pink and lilac if possible to honor her life.
Clouds roll across Christiansted Harbor in St. Croix as unsettled weather brings the possibility of showers and periods of rainfall across the U.S. Virgin Islands this week. (Source photo by Jesse Daley)
The National Weather Service in San Juan, Puerto Rico, has warned that the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico will face a mix of weather hazards this week, including excessive heat and humidity, periods of rainfall and thunderstorms, gusty winds, and hazardous marine conditions.
Flooding, Gusty Winds and Lightning
In an update on Monday, forecasters at the NWS said unstable conditions could bring periods of thunderstorms and rainfall, which may be heavy at times, across the region through midweek.
A National Weather Service graphic highlights the main weather hazards expected this week, including flooding, marine and beach concerns, and limited heat risk across the region. (Photo courtesy NWS)
“The risk of flooding will increase this week, with the highest risk occurring through midweek,” the NWS said. “Afternoon and nighttime showers and thunderstorms may produce urban and small stream flooding, with isolated flash flooding possible across Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.”
The NWS added that flooding is not expected to be widespread, but localized flooding is possible during heavier downpours. Additionally, there may be times when precipitation does not occur.
“Although we expect periods with little or no rain, rounds of moderate to locally heavy rain will impact portions of the islands each day, especially across the USVI and Puerto Rico’s windward locations overnight and in the morning, and across the western and northern portions of Puerto Rico in the afternoon.”
The NWS also warned of gusty winds affecting the islands, which could increase the frequency of showers and cause choppy seas.
“Breezy to locally windy conditions will persist. Winds will enhance shower activity and create hazardous marine and coastal conditions,” the NWS stated.
Heat Risk Builds Across the IslandsExcessive heat is also expected across the islands over the coming days.
A palm tree stands tall on St. Croix as forecasters warn of excessive heat across the region this week. (Source photo by Jesse Daley)
“Above-normal heat index values return Tuesday through Thursday,” the NWS reported. “Elevated heat indices will increase the risk of heat-related impacts, especially for sensitive individuals outdoors without adequate hydration or cooling,” the NWS cautioned.
According to the NWS, “The heat index, also known as the apparent temperature, is what the temperature feels like to the human body when relative humidity is combined with the air temperature.”
The Source contacted Manuel Ramos-Rodriguez, a meteorologist at the NWS in San Juan, for more details on the heat expected across the islands this week.
“We anticipate a Limited Heat Risk this week, but we do not expect to issue separate Heat Advisories,” Ramos-Rodriguez clarified. “Heat Advisories are issued for areas under an Elevated Heat Risk, while Extreme Heat Warnings are reserved for a Significant Heat Risk. However, we do not anticipate meeting those specific thresholds at this time,” he noted.
A graphic from the NWS explains heat risk categories as the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico are forecast to see a Limited Heat Risk this week. (Photo courtesy NWS)
The NWS outlook says winds from the east-southeast will help push temperatures above normal while also increasing moisture. Current local forecasts for St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix call for breezy conditions and highs generally in the mid-80s Fahrenheit through much of the week, but the heat index will likely make the weather feel warmer.
Marine and Beach Conditions Marine and beach hazards are also expected to remain a concern across the local waters, particularly during the second half of the week.
“An arriving swell will cause conditions to deteriorate again later this week,” the NWS reported. “Beachgoers, especially inexperienced swimmers, are strongly urged to stay out of the water, avoid areas near rocks or jetties, and follow all posted warnings and lifeguard instructions,” the NWS cautioned.
Gusty winds will also generate wind-driven, choppy seas, and the risk of rip currents is likely to increase. Ramos-Rodriguez said additional alerts could still be issued as conditions change.
“The NWS may issue Small Craft Advisories, High Risk of Rip Current Statements, thunderstorm alerts and flood-related warnings,” Ramos-Rodriguez said. “Please note that there is a high chance that flood notifications will be focused on Puerto Rico,” he concluded.
Local Weather UpdatesWeather hazards can occur year-round, and it is crucial to be prepared. Information regarding the weather across the USVI, including marine forecasts, is available from the NWS and NOAA.
With the Atlantic hurricane season set to begin June 1, the Source recently covered AccuWeather’s latest 2026 hurricane season forecast, with a focus on an expected El Niño weather pattern. The story can be viewed here.
Additionally, the local forecast is regularly updated on the Source Weather Page, where a weekly video forecast is available.
Finally, residents and visitors can also view weather alerts and disaster preparedness information from the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency.
The selected squad reflects a balanced group of experienced players and emerging talent, all committed to representing the Virgin Islands with pride, discipline, and competitive ambition.
Women’s National Team Roster:
Kyliz Osorio, Mackiesh Taylor, Abigail Speakman, Jenna Rehm, Kelsey Hill, Naya Vialva, Brianna Brudy, Reagan Hood, Olivia Crikelair, Jade Browne, Kathryn Turner, Elizabeth Vega, Josie Couch, Lita Frost, Maia Foley, Zaniya Gonzague, Neah Williams, Isabella Nieves.
Team Staff:
Head Coach: Stefan De Four
Assistant Coaches: Pierre Hosang, Anna Scott
Goalkeeper Coach: David Blaise
Team Physio: Kern Meloney
Fitness Coach: Casbert Waisome
Team Manager: Bernetta Browne-Nelson
Equipment Manager: Shanicia Dyer
Team Media: Lance Chardon II, Christian Restrespo
The USVISF encourages fans and supporters across the territory to rally behind the team as they continue to inspire the next generation and elevate the women’s game in the Virgin Islands. 
