Biden Wins U.S. Virgin Islands Democratic Caucus

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Biden Wins U.S. Virgin Islands Democratic Caucus
At the USVI Democratic Party Caucus on Saturday, President Joe Biden defeated Marianne Williamson by a margin of 99.006 percent to .004 percent, the U.S. Virgin Islands Democratic Party reported. The caucus was conducted as part of the Democratic Party’s presidential primaries. This is the opportunity for voters in the Virgin Islands to nominate the Democratic presidential nominee and represent the Virgin Islands at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Illinois, said Stedmann Hodge, Jr., state chair, in a press release. The caucus system determines the additional delegates that will represent the USVI at the Democratic National Convention. Voters select six candidates, three males and three females, and rank them by preference. Here’s how the votes will be counted: the two male candidates who receive the most votes are selected as delegates and two female candidates from the district of St. Thomas-St. John and one male candidate and one female candidate from the district of St. Croix. This process is used to provide equity for male and female representation during alternating years for a Democratic National Convention, with the candidates receiving the most votes in each district being selected as a delegate, said State Chair Hodge. The elected delegates will join the automatic delegates, who are the governor, delegate to Congress, national committeeman, national committeewoman, state chair, and vice chair, who will also represent the territory at the Democratic National Convention, according to the press release. The Virgin Islands offers a small delegation that will make a significant impact when participating in the DNC Roll Call and nominating President Joe Biden and Kamila Harris for a second term. This is the one unique opportunity for the territories to participate in the National Election Process, the press release stated. Seven of 13 delegates to the Democratic National Convention are pledged to presidential contenders based on the results of the voting in today’s Virgin Islands Territorial Convention. A mandatory 15 percent threshold is required in order for a presidential contender to be pledged National Convention delegates. The USVI Democratic Party Caucus met the required threshold by receiving 467 Votes for Biden, the release stated. 2024 V.I. Democratic Party Caucus Election Results Presidential Selection
  1. Biden – 467 Territorial (335 STX, 132 STT/ STJ)
  2. ⁠Williamson –  0
  3. ⁠Uncommitted – 0
Delegate Candidates St. Thomas/St. John Males (2)
  1. Kyza Callwood – 74
  2. ⁠Kevin Rodriquez – 93
Females (2)
  1. Delekah Callwood – 41
  2. ⁠Barbara Petersen – 77
  3. ⁠Riise Richards – 62
St. Croix Males (2)
  1. Cecil Benjamin – 86
  2. ⁠John Gumbs – 96
  3. ⁠Wilfredo Guzman – 66
  4. ⁠Robert Rios- 202
  5. ⁠Ronald Russell – 51
Female (1)
  1. Carolyn Burke – 158 *
  2. ⁠Yvette Edwards – 166
* Alternate            

Photo Focus: Freedom City Welcome the 2024 Pride Parade

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Photo Focus: Freedom City Welcome the 2024 Pride Parade

Although it was a small parade, dozens of spectators lined Strand Street to join in the revelry at the 5th Annual Pride Parade and Health Fair Block Party in Frederiksted, Saturday. The first Pride event of the year was a rave party at Point Udall and the last will be the Pride Celebration drag show at Sand Castle on the Beach June 15.

Trucks, vans, cars, people, quadrille dancers and even women on horseback – the Crucian Cowgirls – decorated in rainbow colors in support of the Virgin Islands LGBTQ+ community, proceeded slowly down the street.

A construction company’s converted entry in the Pride Parade honored several people. Troupes of dancers followed the vehicles, playing upbeat music. (Source photo by Susan Ellis)
Celebrating Pride month was a crew from a local restaurant. (Source photo by Susan Ellis)

Adults and children moved to the music while watching the parade. Some jumped into the street and followed troupes to the end. Based on the smiling faces, everyone seemed happy.

Parade spectators randomly spaced themselves all along Strand Street from the Abramson Pier to Frederiksted Health Care, Inc. (Source photo by Susan Ellis)
A mother and her child, clearly enjoying the event, held down a corner on Strand Street during Saturday’s Pride Parade. (Source photo by Susan Ellis)

The parade costumes ranged from feathers to capes to tee shirts and plenty of bling in rainbow colors.

Two participants in elaborate costumes, complete with feathers, strike poses at the beginning of the Pride Parade. (Source photo by Susan Ellis)
One participant danced in his five-inch high heels to the end of the parade. (Source photo by Susan Ellis)

For the past five years, Frederiksted Health Care Inc. has supported the Pride Parade with events, handouts and refreshments.

At the end of the Pride Parade, Frederiksted Health Care Inc. hosted refreshments and a health fair attended by spectators and parade participants. (Source photo by Susan Ellis)

UVI Navigating Home

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UVI Navigating Home
The University of the Virgin Islands has become a beacon for young scientists aspiring to make a difference in marine and environmental sciences through its prestigious fellowship programs. These programs, supported by significant grants from the U.S. National Science Foundation, aim to cultivate local talent from historically marginalized or underrepresented groups in STEM fields. The overarching goal is to bridge the gap between academic training and professional careers, particularly within the geosciences. One of the key components of UVI’s fellowship offerings is the Navigating Home Fellowship headed by Kristin Wilson Grimes. This program places fellows in various positions with territorial partners such as the Department of Planning and Natural Resources, the National Park Service, and other environmental organizations. The fellowship provides both short-term and long-term placements, allowing recent graduates to gain practical experience while contributing to local workforce needs.
Kristin Wilson Grimes, Navigating Home project lead. (Submitted photo)
Larissa Sweeny, a dedicated fellow with the National Park Service, exemplifies the impact of this program. After completing her bachelor’s degree in psychology at Nova Southeastern University, Sweeny found her passion for wildlife conservation rekindled through her work with the Buck Island Sea Turtle Research Program. Her duties involve conducting day and night patrols to monitor sea turtle activities, collecting morphological data, and developing conservation techniques to mitigate the effects of rising temperatures on turtle nests.
In her second week as a Navigating Home Fellow, Larissa visited the Salt River Bay National Park and Ecological Preserve in St. Croix to assist with data collection at one of the long-term mangrove plots. This includes identifying, counting and measuring the growth of existing mangroves and tagging new ones. Larissa is mentored by Kristin Ewen at the National Park Service. (Submitted photo)
Sweeny’s typical day starts early, with day patrols at Buck Island. She navigates the beaches, searching for signs of sea turtle activities such as tracks, nests, and disturbances in the sand. Each track tells a story of the turtle’s journey, whether it’s laying a nest or merely exploring the shoreline. In the evenings, the nocturnal patrols begin, running from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. These patrols are crucial for gathering detailed data on the turtles, including tissue and shell samples, which help in understanding their health and reproduction patterns. One of  Sweeny’s most significant contributions has been developing methods to protect sea turtle nests from the rising temperatures. She has spearheaded a project to create shades over the nests, aiming to reduce the sand temperature and prevent the eggs from overheating. Additionally, she designed water gauges to monitor groundwater levels and prevent nest inundation, ensuring higher survival rates for the hatchlings. These conservation efforts are vital as they address the immediate threats to sea turtle populations and contribute to long-term sustainability. Sweeny’s hands-on experience with the sea turtles has not only solidified her career aspirations in wildlife conservation but has also provided her with invaluable skills in research and fieldwork. This fellowship has been a stepping stone, guiding her toward a future where she can continue to make meaningful contributions to the preservation of endangered species. Chloe Camacho, another shining star of the fellowship, works as a Coral Restoration Fellow in Marilyn Brandt’s lab. Camacho’s journey began with her participation in the Seas Islands Alliance Program during her undergraduate years at UVI. Now, as a fellow, she engages in various fieldwork activities, including water quality monitoring and coral restoration projects. Camacho’s role extends beyond scientific research; she actively participates in outreach programs, educating the community about the importance of coral ecosystems.
Being a Workforce Fellow takes on many different roles. In her fellowship, Chloé Camacho helps with community-focused coral restoration and awareness projects. For example, at the Earth Day Fair held on St. John in May, Chloé spoke with over 200 students about coral restoration. Chloé is mentored by Dr. Marilyn Brandt at the University of the Virgin Islands. (Submitted photo)
In her role, Camacho spends a significant amount of time in the field, conducting coral health assessments and restoration activities. One of her key projects involves the Acropora Monitoring Program, which focuses on the health and growth of Acropora corals, a genus that includes several critically endangered species. Camacho and her team visit multiple sites around St. Croix and St. Thomas, diving into shallow waters to document the condition of coral colonies. They take detailed photographs, measure growth rates, and record instances of bleaching, disease, and predation. In addition to fieldwork, Camacho plays a pivotal role in community outreach. She participates in events such as Earth Day celebrations and the Agricultural Fair, where she educates residents about coral reefs and their importance to the local ecosystem. Through interactive sessions with schoolchildren and public demonstrations, Camacho helps raise awareness about coral conservation, aiming to foster a sense of pride and responsibility in the community. Camacho’s fellowship has been transformative, allowing her to delve deeper into the field of coral restoration and inspiring her to pursue a master’s degree. Her dedication to both scientific research and community education highlights the comprehensive nature of the fellowship, which equips participants with a broad range of skills and experiences. Miranda Goad, a fellow in Rick Nemeth’s lab, focuses on fish biology, specifically the life cycle of stoplight parrotfish. Goad’s research involves analyzing the otoliths (ear bones) of parrotfish to understand their early developmental stages. This intricate work, which requires precise handling and detailed observation, feeds into broader fisheries management efforts, ensuring sustainable fishing practices.
Workforce Fellow Miranda Goad has been busy retrieving and processing fish ear bones, called otoliths. Otoliths grow rings like a tree and can offer insight into a fish’s age and growth. Miranda is mentored by Richard Nemeth at the University of the Virgin Islands. (Submitted photo)
Goad’s day-to-day activities vary between fieldwork and lab analysis. In the field, she embarks on boat trips, diving into the waters around the Virgin Islands to capture juvenile parrotfish. These expeditions are part of a larger project aimed at studying different habitat types, such as coral reefs and hard-bottom areas, and their role in the growth and development of parrotfish. Back in the lab, Goad meticulously processes the otoliths, using microscopes to examine the growth rings that reveal the fish’s age and growth rates. The data Goad collects is crucial for understanding the life cycles of parrotfish and their interactions with their habitats. By identifying the preferred habitats and growth patterns of these fish, her research contributes to effective fisheries management strategies, ensuring that parrotfish populations remain healthy and sustainable. This work is particularly important as parrotfish play a vital role in maintaining the health of coral reefs by controlling algae growth. Goad’s initial interest in marine science was sparked by a passion for shark biology, and her work with parrotfish has provided her with a solid foundation in fish biology. The fellowship has been instrumental in honing her research skills and solidifying her career aspirations, positioning her for future success in the field of marine science. These fellowship programs at UVI are more than just academic opportunities; they are life-changing experiences that open doors to professional growth and personal fulfillment. Fellows receive comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement benefits, and relocation expenses, ensuring they can fully immerse themselves in their roles without financial strain. Specialized training in areas such as mental health first aid, science communication, and community engagement equips fellows with the skills needed to succeed in their careers and make a lasting impact on their communities. Wilson Grimes emphasizes the transformative nature of these programs. “We’ve never had a program like this in the Virgin Islands,” she explains. “It provides an amazing opportunity to build both local STEM workforce capacity as well as the national STEM workforce capacity. Not only do fellows receive full benefits, but they also gain invaluable experience through specialized training and mentoring.” The Navigating Home Fellowship and similar programs demonstrate UVI’s commitment to fostering local talent and addressing workforce shortages in critical areas such as marine and environmental sciences. By providing structured pathways from education to employment, these programs not only support individual career development but also contribute to the broader goal of sustainable development and environmental stewardship in the Virgin Islands. The success of these fellowship programs is made possible through the collaboration between UVI and various territorial partners. These partnerships ensure that the fellows’ work aligns with local workforce needs and provides tangible benefits to the community. For instance, the Department of Planning and Natural Resources and the National Park Service play crucial roles in offering placement opportunities and supporting the fellows’ research and conservation efforts. The experiences of  Sweeny, Camacho, and Goad reflect the diverse opportunities and profound impact of the fellowship programs at UVI. Their stories illustrate the power of education and hands-on experience in shaping future leaders in marine and environmental sciences. Sweeny’s Journey to Wildlife Conservation  Reflecting on her journey,  Sweeny emphasizes the importance of the fellowship in shaping her career. “This program has allowed me to explore my passion for wildlife conservation in ways I never imagined. Working with sea turtles has been a transformative experience, and I am now more confident in pursuing a career in this field. The support and guidance I received through the fellowship have been invaluable.” Camacho’s Path to Coral Restoration  For Camacho, the fellowship has opened doors to new possibilities and inspired her to further her education. “Before this fellowship, I never considered pursuing a master’s degree. Now, I am determined to continue my studies in coral restoration. The fieldwork and community outreach have been incredibly rewarding, and I am excited to contribute to the conservation of our coral reefs.” Goad’s Exploration of Fish Biology  Goad’s experience with the fellowship has solidified her commitment to marine science. “Working with parrotfish has provided me with a deeper understanding of fish biology and fisheries management. This fellowship has been a stepping stone in my career, and I am grateful for the opportunity to gain practical experience and develop my research skills. I look forward to continuing my journey in marine science, with a focus on shark biology.” As these fellows continue their journeys, they embody the potential of UVI’s fellowship programs to transform lives and communities. Their stories of dedication, discovery, and growth inspire future generations to pursue careers in STEM fields and contribute to the preservation of our natural world. The University of the Virgin Islands, through its innovative and impactful fellowship programs, stands as a testament to the power of education and opportunity in shaping a brighter, more sustainable future. The fellowship programs at the University of the Virgin Islands exemplify the institution’s commitment to nurturing future leaders in marine and environmental sciences. Through hands-on experience, specialized training, and strong partnerships with territorial organizations, these programs provide invaluable opportunities for young scientists to develop their careers and make meaningful contributions to their communities. The stories of Sweeny, Camacho, and Goad highlight the transformative impact of these fellowships, demonstrating how education and practical experience can drive positive change in both individuals and society. As UVI continues to support and expand these programs, it paves the way for a new generation of scientists dedicated to preserving and protecting the natural world.

Two Sailors Represent St. Thomas Aboard U.S. Navy Warship

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Two Sailors Represent St. Thomas Aboard U.S. Navy Warship

Petty Officer 2nd Class Thoron Augustin and Fireman Caheal Turnbull, from St. Thomas, serve aboard USS Ramage, a U.S. Navy warship operating out of Mayport, Fla.

According to a release, they are two of more than 300 sailors serving aboard the Ramage.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Thoron Augustin (Submitted photo)
Petty Officer 2nd Class Thoron Augustin (Submitted photo)

Sailors on this warship have highly specialized jobs requiring both dedication and skill. The jobs range from maintaining engines to handling weaponry, along with a multitude of other assignments that keep the ship mission-ready at all times, according to Navy officials.

Augustin, who joined the Navy five years ago, currently serves as a quartermaster. Turnbull, who graduated from Charlotte Amalie High School in 2023, joined the Navy one year ago and currently serves as a damage controlman, according to the release.

“I joined the Navy for the opportunity to better myself,” said Turnbull. “I would like to become a leader and build a career.”

“I joined the Navy to get paid while I travel,” said Augustin. “I also wanted to make a better life for my family.”

Both sailors expressed that their Navy career has offered many opportunities for achievement. “I made the rank of second class petty officer through the Meritorious Advancement Program,” said Augustin. “When I became a second class petty officer, I was proud that my command recognized and highlighted my accomplishments and achievements.”
Fireman Caheal Turnbull (Submitted photo)
Fireman Caheal Turnbull (Submitted photo)

“My proudest accomplishment is making the Flying Squad,” said Turnbull. “The Flying Squad are the first responders on the ship. It takes working hard, drilling every day and stepping up when you need to. You can’t hesitate to respond when you need to.”

Augustin and Turnbull expressed being grateful to others for helping make their Navy career possible.

“I would like to thank my fiancé,” said Augustin. “I’d also like to thank Culinary Specialist 2nd Class Queiunna Prim. When I had tough times, she kept me grounded and my head on straight. She is always helping me push forward. I would also like to thank the whole crew of USS Leyte Gulf.”

“I would like to thank my family for helping me grow as a person,” added Turnbull. “They taught me responsibility and how to plan for the future.”

Augustin offered some words of advice for those who may be seeking a career in the Navy.

“Serving in the Navy means having to rely on others,” said Augustin.”I enjoy being a part of something bigger than myself and being part of a team. If anyone is thinking of joining the Navy, they should definitely do their research because it could really be for them.”

“Serving in the Navy means having an honorable profession that I can be proud of,” said Turnbull. “I’m proud of being a sailor in the U.S. Navy and I’m honored to wear my uniform out in town. I hope to become a chief petty officer one day and earn my bachelor’s degree.”

With 90 percent of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.

Adm. Lisa Franchetti, chief of Naval Operations, stated, “We will earn and reinforce the trust and confidence of the American people every day. Together we will deliver the Navy the nation needs.”

Schedule for 2024 St. John Celebration Announced

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Schedule for 2024 St. John Celebration Announced
The Virgin Islands Tourism Department and Division of Festivals have announced the schedule and village lineup for the 70th St. John Celebration. The St. John Celebration kicked off on June 8 with Pan-O-Rama and will continue throughout the month with cultural events, including the Princess, Jr. Miss, and Queen Pageants, a Food Fair, and Boat Races, according to the press release. “As we continue to grow our cultural events and welcome more visitors to join in on the festivities, we are excited to share this year’s exciting schedule for the 70th annual St. John Celebration and 126th commemoration of the Virgin Islands Emancipation,” said Tourism Commissioner Joseph Boschulte. The highly anticipated Celebration Children’s and Festival Villages, located just steps away from the Cruz Bay ferry dock, will have its grand opening on June 28, kicking off seven nights of daily concerts from world-class entertainment free and open to the public. Headlined by international superstar Wyclef Jean, the festival village will feature Kes the Band, Patrice Roberts, Dexta Daps, Pumpa, Mr. Killa, Bunji Garlin, Fay-Ann Lyons, Lyrikal, Asa Bantan, Adam O, Richie Spice, Nadia Batson, Cool Session and more, the press release stated. “Together with our local partners and volunteers, the Division of Festivals team is excited for the launch of the 2024 St. John Celebration,” shared Ian Turnbull, director of Festivals. “As we continue to honor the deep, rich cultural history of the island of St. John, we look forward to showcasing it to the world.” St. John culture will be on full display with J’ouvert, Emancipation Day Programming, the Torch Light Parade, and Parade Day, culminating with the annual fireworks display in the Cruz Bay Harbor on July 4th, the release stated. For the 70th Annual St. John Celebration, the Division of Festivals will be honoring pillars in the community who embody the island’s rich culture and elegance:
  • Celebration Village Honoree: Ms. Gwenda Dagou
  • Celebration Food Fair Honoree: Ms. Margaret Sayer
  • Celebration Parade Marshalls: St. John Past Royalties
The following is the schedule of events: Saturday, June 8: Pan-O-Rama, Franklin A. Powell Sr. Park 4:00 PM Sunday, June 16: STJ Prince, Princess & Jr. Miss Show, St. John BMV Parking Lot 5:00 PM Saturday, June 22: STJ Queen Show, St. John BMV Parking Lot 7:00 PM Sunday, June 23: Food Fair & Coronation, Franklin A. Powell Sr. Park 1:00 PM Sunday, June 23: Boat Race, Cruz Bay Harbor 3:00 PM Friday, June 28: Childen’s Village, STJ Nat’l Park Parking Lot 6:00 PM Friday, June 28: Village Grand Opening, Cruz Bay Parking Lot 6:00 PM Wednesday, July 3: J’ouvert, STJ Nat’l Park Ballfield Entrance SUNRISE Wednesday, July 3: Emancipation Day Program, Slim Man’s Parking Lot 10:00 AM Wednesday, July 3: Torch Light Parade, Village Entrance 7:00 PM Thursday, July 4: Parade, STJ Nat’l Park Ballfield 11:00 AM Thursday, July 4: Fireworks, Cruz Bay Harbor 9:00 PM For more information about St. John Celebration, please visit https://www.visitusvi.com/experiences/carnivals-festivals.    

Virtue of the Week – Appreciation

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Virtue of the Week – Appreciation
Virtue of the Week – Appreciation Virtue of the Week focuses on building peaceful and caring communities through understanding and fostering the practice of virtues. The Source supports the Virtues Project and will publish one virtue developed by the project each week.   Appreciation Appreciation is seeing the good in life. It is recognizing the gifts that come our way and showing gratitude for them. When we express appreciation to others, we mirror the virtues we seen in them. We perceive their positive intentions and honor them with our gratitude. Love thrives on appreciation. Intimacy grows deeper when we know we are seen and valued. As we do the spiritual work life calls us to do, it is important to appreciate our own efforts and to acknowledge our progress. We don’t dwell on the unpleasant things of life. Drinking deeply of the beauty and pleasures life offers, we don’t waste a single day. Quote: “For what has been, thanks! For what shall be – yes!.” -Dag Hammerskjold The Practice of Appreciation I look for the good in life and in people. I freely express gratitude and admiration. I honor my own progress. I value the gifts in my tests. I don’t allow myself to stay down and disappointed. I enjoy all that life has to offer. I feel grateful for the bounty of my life. I am thankful for the gift of Appreciation. It fills my cup. Questions for Discussion
  • How do we show appreciation to and for others who may be different from us?
  • How is learning valued, even during difficult conversations?
  • How do we show gratitude for the gifts in our community?
  • How do we honor individual and community progress?
Sign up to receive the Virtue of the Week by email! Visit https://cfvi.net/Virtues-Project and scroll to the end of the page to fill out the form. Virtue of the Week is provided by the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands (CFVI) in partnership with the VI Source and Virtues Matter. About the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands Since 1990, CFVI has been a catalyst for positive change in the territory through initiatives committed to youth, learning, family support and the environment. With a professional staff and a volunteer Board of Directors composed of community leaders, CFVI is a trusted advocate and supporter of programs that ensure opportunity and sustainability for current and future generations. CFVI is a registered non-profit organization entirely supported by individual donors, grants, trusts, corporate donations and estate planning. For more information, visit www.cfvi.net. About Virtues Matter Virtues Matter was started by a passionate wife-husband team of social entrepreneurs seeking to positively uplift as many lives as possible. We aim to inspire and empower, to build capacity, strengthen relationships, and help everyone lead lives of passion and purpose. Virtues Matter believes in a world where people are committed to kindness and respect, strive to be their best, and live with hope, courage and in unity. We built the Virtues Cards mobile app, an interactive personal and team development tool, to help people identify and develop key virtue skills. We also offer dynamic workshops, online training, and customized programs to help people cultivate these positive qualities of character. To learn more, visit virtuesmatter.com. To learn more about the Virtues Project, visit www.virtuesproject.com.

Miriam Shorey-Byrde Dies

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Miriam Shorey-Byrde Dies
Miriam Shorey-Byrde
Miriam Shorey-Byrde died on May 16. She was preceded in death by sisters: Mildred and Ruthlyn; brother-in-law, Earnis; and special friend, Judy. She is survived by her husband, Zephania Byrde; stepdaughter, Veronica Byrde; stepson-in-law, Shawn Marshall; step-grandson, Arlington Marshall; sister-in-law, Ashly; nephews: Walter, Wayne, and other nieces and nephews too numerous to mention; special friends: Ron, Petronella, Lena, Erick, Johanne Cobb and Nikisha Young. The family will be having the friends and family viewing from 3-5 p.m., Thursday, June 13, in the Chapel at Divine Funeral Services, 129 Peter’s Rest, Christiansted, VI 00820. A second viewing is set for 9 a.m. followed by a funeral service at 10 a.m., Friday, June 14, at Faith Moravian Barren Spot.  Interment will immediately follow at the Kingshill Cemetery.

Fronchette Alexander Liburd Dies at 75

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Fronchette Alexander Liburd Dies at 75
Fronchette Alexander Liburd
Fronchette Alexander Liburd, also known as “The Bad Ones” or “Franco,” of Harbor View Apartments died on May 22. He was 75 years old. He was preceded in death by his mother, Jenny Parris; father, George Parris; and brother, Orvene Parris. He is survived by his wife: Patricia Liburd; daughters: Nevilla Liburd, Sacha Ferrance, Tiffany Liburd and Renair Andrews; sons: Maurice Liburd and Leon Liburd; and grandchildren: Deshawn and Shanice Joseph, Shaquan and Aaliyah Ferrance, Marcus Morris, Massiah Rosario, Melanie Matthew, Maurice Jr., Mackeel, Amani, Anthony, Dialysha, Mauricia, Jahlique, Jo’Mauri, Malik, Marissa, Makiem and Marquis Liburd. He is also survived by great-grandchildren: Zy’Naii Prentice, Nasir and Cameron Joseph, Qua’Dir and Qua’Dyjah Gumbs, Ma’Kyla, Ma’Kyjah, Makeem, Zahkari and Zahmani Liburd; sisters: Olga Parris, Nevilla Parris and Cutie Woolard; brother, Earl Parris; nieces: too numerous to mention; nephews: Giles Byron, Bernard Samuel and Lester Parris; son-in-law, Devon Ferrance; brothers-in-law: Bernard Sheriff, Kurt Sheriff, Anthony Sheriff and Michael Didier. Other survivors include sisters-in-law: Ethanie Didier, Maxine Sheriff, Lorrie Chelcher and Riavelette Gerard Gabriel; special friends: Lorraine “Debbie” Cartier, Trina Allick, Doris Sutton, Idola Donovan, Sherisma Skeet, Marie Garcia, Shyla Marshall-Almestica, J’Nae Torres-Lang, Spanesia Anderson, Verna Dowling, Deweese Gumbs Jr., Laurika Tuitt, Michael, Jenny Chelcher, Patricia Warren, Maya, Boochie, Maritza Velasquez, the Davis family, Schuster family, and the Schjang and Parris families; as well as other relatives and friends too numerous to mention. The funeral service will be held on Thursday, June 13, at James Memorial Funeral Chapel. Viewing will begin at 10 a.m. with service at 11 a.m. Interment will follow at Kingshill Cemetery. The family respectfully request that those in attendance wear festive colors. Professional services are entrusted to James Memorial Funeral Home, Inc.

Weekly Weather Forecast with Jesse Daley

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Weekly Weather Forecast with Jesse Daley
Check out our weekly weather forecast with Jesse Daley, covering Sunday, June 9, through Saturday, June 15. Our YouTube playlist is updated every week, AND check out Jesse’s daily weather updates here.  

Territory Administrators Assure Residents of Commitment to Community, Encourage Communication in Times of Need

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Territory Administrators Assure Residents of Commitment to Community, Encourage Communication in Times of Need
Territory administrators urge residents to be prepared for emergencies and remind individuals to reach out if necessary. (Photo courtesy V.I. Health Department Facebook)
Territory administrators urge residents to be prepared for emergencies and remind individuals to reach out if necessary. (Photo courtesy V.I. Health Department Facebook)
With frequent and ongoing power outages across the Virgin Islands and hurricane season now underway, USVI residents are reminded that they are not alone, and assistance is available.
Power outages have long been a significant inconvenience for residents and visitors across the USVI. However, recent outages, which have been described as having reached a point of crisis across the islands, can be dangerous for individuals who do not have access to safe or healthy living conditions, or who cannot afford a generator. For instance, during extreme heat, elderly residents or those with special needs may require air conditioning to help avoid heat-related illnesses.
The Source spoke with territory administrators for St. Croix and St. John, the territory administrator for St. Thomas, and Government House Communications Director Richard Motta regarding options for residents who may require aid during times of crisis. All individuals stressed the importance of caring for the community and encouraged residents to reach out if they need help, regardless of whether or not the issue is related to a power failure. While individuals should call 911 during a severe or life-threatening emergency, administrators (who hold mayoral-type roles on each major island across the territory) want constituents to know they can assist.
St. Croix Assistance for Residents
Sammuel Sanes, St. Croix administrator, advised that residents be prepared for emergencies and keep important phone numbers nearby (including his number).
“Even when the power is not out, [residents who may] need some type of assistance or [need] information can call me on my number, and I will try to assist as much as possible,” Sanes said. Sanes offered his mobile number for individuals on St. Croix.
“I give everybody my cell number as the administrator of St. Croix,” Sanes said. “I will try to assist with any issue or at least point you in the right direction,” he continued. Sanes can be reached at 340-690-8861.
Suggestions for items to include in an emergency supply kit. (Photo courtesy Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency)
Suggestions for items to include in an emergency supply kit. (Photo courtesy Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency)
Sanes recommended that residents prepare an emergency supply kit for crises, especially during hurricane season. With a potentially very active season this year, Sanes noted that it is particularly crucial to store essential documents, which can be challenging to obtain if they are destroyed. Sanes offered to assist St. Croix residents with transferring important paperwork onto a digital storage drive at no cost. Interested persons can contact Sanes and schedule a meeting at his office.
“[Obtaining important documents that are lost is] one of the hardest things to do after a natural disaster or manmade disaster,” Sanes stated. “I encourage everybody [to store documents either at my office or on your own]. I will even provide you with a waterproof envelope where you can put your documents to make them even safer,” he added.
Sanes also advised residents to contact the Human Services Department during times of need and to dial 911 during a life-threatening situation.
St. Thomas/Water Island and St. John Assistance for Residents
Shikima Jones-Sprauve, St. John administrator, echoed this sentiment. Jones-Sprauve told the Source that she is eager to offer help to the island community. She noted that elderly persons are regularly contacted through services provided by the V.I. Human Services Department. She also offered her personal phone number for anyone who may require aid on St. John but is not facing a dangerous or life-threatening emergency. Jones-Sprauve also expressed gratitude to Gov. Albert Bryan, Jr., for consistently checking in with her regarding the well-being of people living on St. John.
“We are a tight-knit community, and we come together in times of disaster,” Jones-Sprauve declared. Jones-Sprauve can be contacted at 340-474-5762 or 340-776-6484.
Finally, the Source contacted Kevin Rodriquez, temporary St. Thomas/Water Island District administrator, and spoke with Government House Communications Director Richard Motta Jr., who was present at the interview. Motta explained that St. Thomas/Water Island residents can also contact Jones-Sprauve directly for any help.
“[Shikima Jones-Sprauve] will either connect [St. Thomas/Water Island residents] with the resources that they need or provide direct assistance [for both St. John and for St. Thomas/Water Island],” Motta said.
During serious emergencies, USVI residents should dial 911. However, residents are encouraged to contact territory administrators, the V.I. Human Services Department, and the V.I. Health Department regarding non-critical circumstances requiring help.
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