Lawmakers Honor Virgin Islanders In Perma Plaque Ceremony

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Lawmakers Honor Virgin Islanders In Perma Plaque Ceremony
Virgin Islands Legislature Building (Source file photo)

Members of the 35th Legislature of the Virgin Islands, led by Senate President Novelle E. Francis Jr. hosted a Perma Plaque ceremony at the Frits E. Lawaetz Legislative Conference Room Monday, according to a press release.

Francis voiced the importance of the ceremony, stating, “it is always the right time to celebrate Virgin Islanders who have made their mark on our community.” He added, “I have arrived at the conclusion that those being honored were well deserving of this recognition.”

According to the release, the following were honored with perma plaques: Bill No. 34-0203, a resolution honoring and commending Alvin Delano Burke, Sr. posthumously for his service and contributions to the sport of basketball, horse racing, and to the people of the Virgin Islands.

Bill No. 32-0264, an act honoring and commending William Bohlke, Jr. for his assistance in the introduction of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Hurricane Hunters as well as his numerous contributions towards the Virgin Islands through business and philanthropic efforts.

Resolution No. 1894, Bill No. 34-0288, a resolution to honor and commend retired Sgt. Maj. Charles David, for his service to the Virgin Islands National Guard.

Resolution No. 1907, Bill No. 35-0170, a resolution honoring and commemorating the Virgin Islands National Guard on the commemoration of its 50th anniversary.

Resolution No. 1888, Bill No. 34- 0202, a resolution honoring and commending Eugene “Genix” Thomas posthumously for his outstanding contributions to the Virgin Islands community as a baseball, softball, and life coach.

Bill No. 34-0157, an act honoring and commending Gloria H. Canegata Waterman for her outstanding years of service to the Virgin Islands community and public service through various organizations.

Resolution No. 1815, Bill No. 30-0551, a resolution honoring and commending Joseph Olmeda for his dedication and service to the people of the Virgin Islands.

Resolution No. 1893, Bill No. 34-0057, a resolution honoring and commending José Julio Martinez, better known as Papi Love for his outstanding contributions as a radio talk show host, educating and entertaining the people of the Virgin Islands.

Resolution No. 1887, Bill No. 34-0201, a resolution honoring and commending Kemit-Amon Lewis for his outstanding service and contributions to the marine science industry in the Virgin Islands.

Resolution No. 1898, Bill No. 34-0380, a resolution honoring and commending Michelle Mycah Leone Smith for her outstanding performance in track and field and her contributions to the Virgin Islands community as a sports ambassador.

Resolution No. 1897, Bill No. 34-0297, a resolution to posthumously honor and commend Roselin Maud McFarlane for her contributions to the Virgin Islands community and specifically as an advocate of independent living for people with disabilities.

Resolution No. 1890, Bill No. 34-0220, a resolution honoring and commending the Agriculture and Food Fair Board of Directors, the University of the Virgin Islands, and the Virgin Islands Department of Agriculture for 50 years of diligence in coordinating, promoting, and hosting the Virgin Islands Agriculture and Food Fair, known as “Agrifest.”

Resolution No. 1906, Bill No. 35-0100, a resolution honoring and commending Music in Motion School of Higher Dance Education and its founder, Charlita Schuster, on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of the establishment of the Music in Motion Dance Academy.

Resolution 1909, Bill No 35-0217, a resolution honoring and commending the St. Croix Majorettes for its outstanding 50 years of commitment to nurturing youth, enriching community service, advancing the art and sport of baton twirling, and for its invaluable contributions to the cultural and social fabric of St. Croix.

Act No. 8739, Bill No. 35-0029, an act honoring and commending Dr. Donna Marie Christian-Christiansen, for her tireless contributions to the people of the Virgin Islands in the medical field and representation in the United States Congress.

Act No. 8736, Bill No. 35-0041, an act awarding the Virgin Islands Medal of Honor posthumously to former Sen. Edgar Milton Iles for his commendable public service and contributions to the people of the Virgin Islands.

Senators present at the Perma Plaque ceremony included Francis, Marise C. James, Angel L. Bolques, Jr., Samuel Carriόn, and Franklin D. Johnson.

St. Thomas Prepares for Carnival Horse Races; Bryan Enthusiastic About USVI Tourism and Infrastructure Opportunities

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St. Thomas Prepares for Carnival Horse Races; Bryan Enthusiastic About USVI Tourism and Infrastructure Opportunities
Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. provides updates during a Government House weekly press briefing Monday. (Photo courtesy Government House of the V.I. Facebook)
Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. provides updates during a Government House weekly press briefing Monday. (Photo courtesy Government House Facebook)

During Monday’s weekly Government House press briefing, Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. celebrated the upcoming horse races at the Clinton E. Phipps Racetrack on St. Thomas during Carnival. Bryan also shared updates and enthusiasm regarding the future of tourism and improved infrastructure across the territory.

Bryan was joined by Calvert White, commissioner of the Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation, who provided details about the highly anticipated horse races scheduled to begin at 1 p.m. May 3. Numerous upgrades have been made to the Clinton E. Phipps Racetrack, which has been closed for the past seven years.

Calvert White, commissioner of the Sports, Parks and Recreation Department, provided details about the highly anticipated horse races scheduled to begin at 1 p.m. May 3. (Photo courtesy Government House of the V.I. Facebook)
Calvert White, commissioner of the Sports, Parks and Recreation Department, provided details about the highly anticipated horse races scheduled to begin at 1 p.m. May 3. (Photo courtesy Government House Facebook)

“It is important to clarify that it was always DSPR and Southland Gaming’s intention to produce and give the community a better experience than we previously had [at the racetrack],” White stated.

White explained that the grandstands are now three times the size of the original, and the height has been elevated to 10 feet, providing enhanced visibility from the bleachers. A VIP section and numerous bars and vendors throughout the facility will be available, providing various food options for attendees. Folding chairs will also be available for purchase.

Six horse races are scheduled for May 3, with the first race commencing at 1 p.m. and subsequent races starting every 45 minutes afterward. A seventh race is currently being planned. In addition to the horse races, there will be activities and entertainment during the event, including music.

Details were provided about horse races May 3 at the Clinton E. Phipps Racetrack on St. Thomas. (Photo courtesy Eventbrite and Clinton E. Phipps Racetrack)
Details were provided about horse races May 3 at the Clinton E. Phipps Racetrack on St. Thomas. (Photo courtesy Eventbrite and Clinton E. Phipps Racetrack)

Tickets may be purchased at the racetrack or online before the event on Eventbrite. Admission for adults is $25 and $5 for children under the age of 12. Parking will be available for $5 at Bertha C. Boschulte Middle School and the Ezra Fredericks Ball Park. Shuttles will provide transportation to and from the racetrack and the parking lots for $2 each way.

“I encourage individuals to purchase [tickets] ahead of May 3,” White said.

White expressed his appreciation to the organizations involved in keeping the event safe and shared his commitment to the security of guests.

“Safety is and always will be our number one priority,” White stressed. “Security will be tight. There will be metal detectors and scanners at the gate to ensure that people attending the event are as safe as possible.”

Tourism and Infrastructure Advancements in the USVI  

Bryan touted his recent experience attending the annual Sea Trade Global Conference, a meeting with global cruise industry partners. Bryan expressed excitement for the future of tourism across the territory, particularly on St. Croix.

Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. recently attended the Sea Trade Global Conference, a meeting with global cruise industry partners. Bryan expressed excitement for the future of tourism across the territory. (Photo courtesy Government House of the V.I. Facebook)
Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. recently attended the Sea Trade Global Conference, a meeting with global cruise industry partners. Bryan expressed excitement for the future of tourism across the territory. (Photo courtesy Government House Facebook)

“We participated in a series of very productive and insightful engagements with some of our cruise industry ship partners, and [we also met] with some of the executive leadership of the major cruise lines,” Bryan explained.

“We exchanged a host of innovative ideas that we realize to be exciting prospects for our islands, especially the island of St. Croix, where there is the most potential for growth in our cruise industry,” Bryan said. “The potential for enhancing our cruise arrivals is immense and promises to bring vibrant new energy to our shores,” Bryan added.

When asked by the Source about specific developments within the tourism industry on St. Croix, Bryan noted that further details will be provided in the near future.

Bryan also revealed the recent acquisition of two large warehouses, along with commercial and industrial land on St. Croix, aimed to benefit the community.

“I am excited to announce a significant step forward in our ongoing efforts to enhance the infrastructure of the Virgin Islands Government,” Bryan declared. “We have successfully secured the purchase of two state-of-the-art warehouses totaling 200,000 square feet of space on St. Croix,” he continued. Eighteen acres of undeveloped commercial and industrial land adjacent to the warehouses were also acquired.

Bryan noted that the warehouses are expected to improve storage capabilities and will especially benefit the Department of Education and the Department of Property and Procurement by adding refrigerated food storage facilities. Bryan noted that the extra space is expected to provide more room for safe and sanitary food storage, including food for school lunch programs.

Portions of the warehouses are anticipated to be rented to large construction companies for added revenue, and rental space for the Federal Emergency Management Agency is also being considered for storage of emergency supplies.

“[Renting space to FEMA] would help us bring more emergency supply storage onto the island rather than in Puerto Rico and other locations [to generate a faster response to an emergency situation],” Bryan explained.

“This acquisition is a testament to our commitment to the wellbeing and the prosperity of the Virgin Islands,” Bryan added.

Additionally, Bryan noted his support for the recently announced U.S. Army Partnership for Your Success (PaYS) program in the USVI, and he celebrated the opening of the new Charles “Tappy” Seales Fire Station and Multi-purpose Complex on St. Croix.

“As we move forward, we want to make sure that we’re constantly reminding people about these groundbreaking [events], and the recovery [of the USVI] is moving. There are a lot of new projects coming in,” Bryan proclaimed.

Finally, Bryan explained that he would be out of the territory for several days starting Tuesday. The governor is traveling to St. Louis for a semi-annual Jobs for America’s Graduates meeting, for which he serves as vice chair.

Sprauve Requests Zoning Change to Build Affordable Housing on STJ

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Sprauve Requests Zoning Change to Build Affordable Housing on STJ
Gershwain Sprauve explains his plans to rezone his property in Estate Adrian on St. John to build affordable housing during an online DPNR meeting Monday. (Submitted photo)
Gershwain Sprauve explains his plans to rezone his property in Estate Adrian on St. John to build affordable housing during an online DPNR meeting Monday. (Screenshot from DPNR meeting)

For years, St. John residents have been struggling with a critical housing shortage, and now one local landowner is seeking to address the problem.

Gershwain Sprauve has applied to the Department of Planning and Natural Resources to rezone nearly four acres in Estate Adrian from Residential-Low Density or R-1, to Business-Scattered or B-3, in order to construct 88 affordable housing units.

An image of the location of Gershwain Sprauve’s property in Estate Adrian. (Photo courtesty Map Geo)
An image of the location of Gershwain Sprauve’s property in Estate Adrian. (Photo courtesty Map Geo)

Sprauve presented his request to rezone parcels 17F-2 and 17F-Remainder Estate Adrian, Number 18 Cruz Bay Quarter, St. John at a DPNR meeting held online Monday.

Sprauve hopes to provide 88 rental units within 22 three-story structures scattered over 4.1 acres of the property.

“The demand for affordable housing is high and is growing significantly,” said Sprauve who has previously built moderate-income rental units on his property at 11-K Estate Adrian.

Images of the exteriors and the interiors as imagined by Gershwain Sprauve for his proposed 88-unit development on St. John. (Submitted photo)
Images of the exteriors and the interiors as imagined by Gershwain Sprauve for his proposed 88-unit development on St. John. (Screenshot from DPNR meeting)

He’s now working with architect Chaneel Callwood-Daniels to design units that meet the diverse housing needs of long-term residents with moderate incomes.

Sprauve said he hopes to attract young professionals, teachers, retirees, and hospitality workers, many of whom now have to commute from St. Thomas because they can’t find housing on St. John.

Preliminary plans call for studio and one-bedroom units on the ground floors; three-bedroom units on the second floors, and two-bedroom units on the third floors. Sprauve estimates that the units will range in size from 600 to 1,300 square-feet.

A rendering shows the interiors for proposed housing units at Estate Adrian. (Submitted photo)
A rendering shows the interiors for proposed housing units at Estate Adrian. (Screenshot from DPNR meeting)

Sprauve said the units would be designed to be ecologically friendly and sustainable, with solar power, cisterns for water catchment, and a wastewater treatment plant on site.

Upon questioning from Planning Division officials, Sprauve said that the project will be built in phases, but the timeline ultimately depends on the funding. He is researching various federal government programs for affordable housing.

Sprauve said he cannot estimate the rental rates at this time. “It’s a moving scale, and it has to be somewhat subsidized; people can’t afford market-rate housing.”

Depending on the funding source, the units may be convertible from a rental basis to home-ownership after a period of time, he said.

An aerial photo shows the estate road that leads to the proposed site of an affordable housing development in Estate Adrian on St. John. (Submitted photo)
An aerial photo shows the estate road that leads to the proposed site of an affordable housing development in Estate Adrian on St. John. (Screenshot from DPNR meeting)

The largely undeveloped property is located on an estate road off of Centerline Road opposite Coco Joe’s near Midway Market.  An aerial view photo shows that the curving estate road runs roughly parallel to the George A. Simmons Housing Community towards the east.

Sprauve said a large parcel of land was bequeathed by his grandfather in the 1970s to family members. Surveys completed then do not indicate the presence of significant historical artifacts or rare species of plants or animals, but additional studies would be needed.

The public has until April 25 to send comments regarding the proposed rezoning to DPNR officials.  Emails may be addressed to leia.laplace@dpnr.vi.gov.  Following that, DPNR planners have 30 days to present a report to the commissioner.  Once the commissioner has signed off, the rezoning request may be sent to the V.I. Legislature for approval. 

Photo Focus: 10th Annual Festival Celebrates All Things Literary

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Photo Focus: 10th Annual Festival Celebrates All Things Literary
The V.I. Lit Fest audience gathers in the Great Hall at UVI on St. Croix. (Photo by DaraMonifah Cooper)
The audience listens to a presentation at the V.I. Literary Festival and Book Fair in the Great Hall at UVI on St. Croix. (Photo by DaraMonifah Cooper)
Tiphanie Yanique, writer and educator from the Virgin Islands presented a lecture/workshop on “Decolonial Realisms: Making Full Characters in Fiction." (Photo by DaraMonifah Cooper)
Tiphanie Yanique, a writer and educator from the Virgin Islands, presents a lecture/workshop on “Decolonial Realisms: Making Full Characters in Fiction.” (Photo by DaraMonifah Cooper)
New and returning authors, educators, artists, journalists, filmmakers, poets, historians, culture bearers, technologists, public officials and others from the Virgin Islands community, the Caribbean region and around the globe celebrated the 10th anniversary of the Virgin Islands Literary Festival and Book Fair that began on Thursday and ran through Sunday. Activities took place at the University of the Virgin Islands Albert A. Sheen campus on St. Croix and in the community, all under the theme of “Legacies: Reckoning and Resilience,” which is also the theme of Volume 38 of The Caribbean Writer, currently being prepped for publication. The full program of events can be reviewed here. The livestream recordings can be watched on the festival’s Facebook page.
Peter Bailey, Virgin Islander and journalist watches along during his film screening of "The Unbreakable Virgin Islanders 2.0." (Photo by DaraMonifah Cooper)
Filmmaker Peter Bailey, Virgin Islander and journalist, watches along during the screening of his film, “The Unbreakable Virgin Islanders 2.0.” (Photo by DaraMonifah Cooper)
Yadayyah Leo, 15-year-old 9th grader from the St. Croix Educational Complex High School reading her poem “Ancestral Grounds” at the Cane Roots Art Gallery in Frederiksted. (Photo by DaraMonifah Cooper)
Yadayyah Leo, a 15-year-old ninth-grader from the St. Croix Educational Complex High School, reads her poem, “Ancestral Grounds,” at the Cane Roots Art Gallery in Frederiksted. (Photo by DaraMonifah Cooper)
Professor Dr. Aaron Ramos, United Nations Representative Dr. Carlyle Corbin, and UVI Professor Dr. Malik Sekou during a panel entitled The Legacies of Self-determination and Contemporary Challenges. (Photo by DaraMonifah Cooper)
United Nations representative Carlyle Corbin, Professor Aaron Ramos, and UVI Professor Malik Sekou during a panel entitled “The Legacies of Self-determination and Contemporary Challenges.” (Photo by DaraMonifah Cooper)

USVI Hawksbills Take Spotlight at International Symposium

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USVI Hawksbills Take Spotlight at International Symposium

The Virgin Islands garnered major attention at the recent 42nd annual International Sea Turtle Symposium, March 24-19, in Pattaya, Thailand. The Hawksbill Project, founded by Scott Eanes, was spotlighted for its substantial progress in filling critical data gaps regarding hawksbill turtles in St. John last year.

From left, Dr. Paul Jobsis, sea turtle biologist and director of research at The Hawksbill Project and Scott Eanes, founder of The Hawksbill Project accept the Champions Award at the International Sea Turtle Symposium in Pattaya, Thailand. (Photo courtesy Scott Eanes)
From left, Dr. Paul Jobsis, sea turtle biologist and director of research at The Hawksbill Project and Scott Eanes, founder of The Hawksbill Project accept the Champions Award at the International Sea Turtle Symposium in Pattaya, Thailand. (Photo courtesy Scott Eanes)

Notably, Eanes was also honored with the prestigious Champions Award, the highest recognition presented to an individual by the symposium for carrying out outstanding work toward the research and conservation of sea turtles.

“Winning the award is an incredible achievement that validates the work WE have been doing,” said Eanes. “It is an individual award, but this really took a team. Jeremy Baird, THP’s director of development, Dr. Alex Webb, THP’s director of advocacy, Dr. Paul Jobsis, THP’s director of research, plus the entire project from Grenada, Ocean Spirits (Kate Charles and her team), UVI Sea Turtle Research, Dan Mele from UVI Epscor, Erin Lieb, Victoria Beasley from Department of Natural Resources, Stephen Connett, and so many more people were all extremely instrumental.”

Known as a keystone species, hawksbill sea turtles play a crucial role in marine ecosystems, helping to maintain the health of coral reefs and contributing to nutrient cycling and beach ecosystem health through their nesting activities. Despite their ecological importance, hawksbill sea turtles face numerous threats, including habitat loss, pollution, climate change, and poaching for their beautiful shells.

“Nearly 99 percent of hawksbill turtles are extinct and so the turtles that we see remaining represent that one percent. The Hawksbill Project was able to identify on St. John the number of hawksbill turtles that exist around the island so that organizations like the Department of Natural Resources or Friends of the Virgin Islands Natural Park can continue to monitor and protect the remaining population,” said Eanes.

From left, Dr. Paul Jobsis, sea turtle biologist and director of research at The Hawksbill Project and Scott Eanes, founder of the Hawksbill Project at the International Sea Turtle Symposium in Pattaya, Thailand. (Photo courtesy Scott Eanes)
From left, Dr. Paul Jobsis, sea turtle biologist and director of research at The Hawksbill Project, and Scott Eanes, founder of the Hawksbill Project at the International Sea Turtle Symposium in Pattaya, Thailand. (Photo courtesy Scott Eanes)

During the symposium, Jobsis highlighted the crucial research conducted in St. John last year that yielded fascinating results. Prior to this work, St. John would have been categorized as data deficient, indicating a lack of data on the island’s hawksbill turtle population. However, following the assessment, which involved the participation of various stakeholders including island residents, the National Park Service, and Friends of Virgin Islands National Park, among others, valuable data now exists regarding the presence or absence of hawksbill turtles on the island.

“The results of the assessment were actually very interesting. We documented over 20 hawksbills and we sampled (meaning hands on) 18 turtles, of which seven were from the northside of the island and 11 from the southside,” noted Eanes.

“The most important thing is there is now some data. Some information. Some genetic samples. If we sample them again this year, we can start to get some very good biometric data, growth rates, etc. It is all part of a larger process. Every year builds on the last and the results help us address the research questions we would like to answer the following year,” he added.

Graphic shows number of documented hatchlings making it to sea from 2017-2023 on St. John. 2,941 hatchlings successfully made it to sea for the 2023-2024 season. (Photo and graph courtesy Friends of Virgin Islands National Park 2023 season report)
Graphic shows number of documented hatchlings making it to sea from 2017-2023 on St. John. 2,941 hatchlings successfully made it to sea for the 2023-2024 season. (Photo and graph courtesy Friends of Virgin Islands National Park 2023 season report)

The recently published 2023 Friends of Virgin Islands National Park season report brings positive news regarding Hawksbill (Ei) nests for the 2023-2024 season. The report reveals an average hatch success rate of 69.3 percent and an emergence success rate of 67.3 percent across all sites. Hatch success represents the percentage of eggs that hatch, while emergence success indicates the percentage of hatchlings that successfully leave the nest cavity.

The highest singular emergence success rate of the season was an impressive 96.8 percent. During the 2023-2024 season 2,491 hatchlings, representing both the hawksbill and green turtle species, successfully reached the sea.

From left, Dr. Paul Jobsis, sea turtle biologist and director of research at The Hawksbill Project and Scott Eanes, founder of The Hawksbill Project displaying SWOT magazine feature "Hawksbill Cove: From Ecological Catastrophe to Conservation Classroom." (Photo courtesy Scott Eanes)
From left, Dr. Paul Jobsis, sea turtle biologist and director of research at The Hawksbill Project, and Scott Eanes, founder of The Hawksbill Project displaying SWOT magazine feature “Hawksbill Cove: From Ecological Catastrophe to Conservation Classroom.” (Photo courtesy Scott Eanes)

Amidst a sea of positive developments in turtle conservation, Eanes’ captivating story, “Hawksbill Cove: From Ecological Catastrophe to Conservation Classroom,” also received the honor of being featured in the State of the World’s Sea Turtles Volume 19 publication, released on March 24. Eanes’ article reveals how a devastating accident triggered a series of events that inadvertently led to what has once again become a robust habitat for the hawksbill sea turtle. The article delves into the fascinating behaviors of hawksbill turtles, showcasing their resilience and intelligence, even amidst two Category 5 hurricanes.

“The Hawksbill Project was created to address data deficiencies as it relates to hawksbill turtles. We want to continue to work with like-minded projects that have a desire to collect this data, but for a variety of reasons may not have the funding, experience, or expertise to get it done,” said Eanes. “The award and recognition we have received this year is proof that The Hawksbill Project is fulfilling its mission.”

Central High School Safety Drill Happening April 15

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The Virgin Islands Department of Education informs parents and guardians of students attending St. Croix Central High School (CHS) that the ongoing lockdown on campus on Monday, April 15 is part of a safety drill. It’s essential to understand that there is no active threat at CHS, so parents do not need to pick up their students from the campus.
Similar to the drill conducted at the St. Croix Educational Complex last month, prior notice could not be provided for Monday’s safety drill at Central High School. Conducting safety drills and sweeps without prior knowledge helps ensure their effectiveness. The element of surprise aids the Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) and school officials in identifying potential prohibited items.
The safety and well-being of students remain paramount for VIDE. These protocols and safety drills will continue to be implemented in collaboration with the VIPD to maintain a secure learning environment at public school campuses.

Bishop Thomas J.W. Douglas Dies

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Bishop Thomas J.W. Douglas Dies
Bishop Thomas J.W. Douglas
Bishop Thomas J.W. Douglas died on March 28. The family of Bishop Thomas J.W. Douglas announces the granting of his angel wings on March 28. He is survived his wife, Lillian Douglas; daughters: Joyce Williams and Estine Matthew: sons: Doval Douglas, Vernon Douglas, Clayton Douglas and Nathanael Douglas and Wentworth Francis; and grandchildren: Denise Ryan, Ingrid Ryan Garfola, Michael Ryan, Cassandra Ryan Wiggins, Carlton Douglas, Latoya Douglas, Steven Douglas, Marvin Douglas, Doval Douglas Jr., Thomas Douglas, Isaiah Douglas, Adrian Douglas, Bronson Clark, Lynette Showman, Brandy Clark, Shantel Douglas, Vernon Douglas Jr., Jeremiah Douglas, Naomi Douglas. He is also survived by more grandchildren: Kenaz Douglas, Taexion Douglas, Masakei Douglas, Alexis Douglas, Ryleigh Edward, Anthony Francis, India Francis, Jamaal Francis, Sheldon Williams, Kevin Williams, David William, Vincent Damaseau, Valerie Damaseau, Jacinthia Damaseau, Jasmine Williams Liburd and Shadela Williams; and great-grandchildren: Dominique Ryan, Malik Cruz, Kayla Sanders, Nova Wiggins, Lilliana Ryan, Jaden Ryan, Jamir Wright Ryan, Paisley Showman, Elijah Francis, Bryce Francis, Joshua Francis, Arianna Francis. Other survivors include more great-grandchildren: Sheldon Williams Jr., Sheldine Henry, Sheinika Henry, Maxwell Rogers, Kelandro Williams, Kelandre Williams, Jaden Mardenborough, Kelan Standford, Rotalia Richardson, Jahlio Liburd and Julion Liburd; great-great-grandchild, Ziyah Ryan; brother, Campbell Douglas; nieces: Anestia Douglas, Sharmaine Douglas and Trivia Douglas; nephews: Errol Jeffers, Kirk Douglas, Clide Douglas, Val Douglas; and in-laws: Mallar Douglas, Lina Douglas, Rita Douglas, Shelly Francis and Alford Matthew. The viewing will begin at 10 a.m. followed by a funeral service at 11 a.m., Saturday, April 13, at Witnesses for Christ Apostolic Church, Clifton Hill. Interment will be at the Kingshill Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to PO Box 372, Kingshill, St. Croix 00851.

Rosalia Ayala Dies

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Rosalia Ayala Dies
Rosalia Ayala
Rosalia Ayala, also known as “Rosa” was born on Sept. 5, 1938, and died on April 8.  Rosa passed away peacefully surrounded by her family. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and community treasure. She owned and operated Rosa’s booth from 1971 until the present. She lived a life of service to her family and community. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Collective Collaboration Inc. in her name. Services will be private with a public memorial to be announced at a later date. Her family thanks everyone for their years of patronage and support.

Kenneth Joseph Henry Jr. Dies at 58

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Kenneth Joseph Henry Jr. Dies at 58
Kenneth Joseph Henry Jr. was born on Oct. 20, 1965, on St. Croix, USVI. He died on Feb. 11. He was 58 years old. He was preceded in death by his father, Kenneth Henry Sr.;  mother, Lucille John Henry; grandfathers: William Henry and Edward John; grandmothers: Grace Zachariah Henry, Clarice John and Josephine George; nephew, Anthony Carr; cousin, Andy Henry; brother-in-law, Lascelle Day; uncles: Ivan and James Henry; and aunt, Rosemary Henry. Kenneth was the only son of five siblings. He is survived by his sisters: Agnes Carr, Clarice Clarke, Josephine Tuitt and Grace Henry; nieces: Ann Marie Carr and Keymara Bolling; nephews: Samuel W. Carr Jr., Freddie Clarke Jr. and Malik Bolling; great nieces: Nayasha Clarke and Arianna Sage; and great nephews: Kobi Brannigan; Christian, Justin, Christopher and Gabriel Carr. He was also survived by brothers-in-law: Samuel W. Carr Sr. and Freddie Clarke Sr; aunts: Gretel Matthew, Joslyn Barthley, Eileen George, Tryphena Lambert, Josephine Hillhouse and Evelyn George; uncles: Earl and Michael Henry, and Vernon Tuitt; niece-in-law, Brigette Carr; and godmother, Veronica Clarke. Other survivors include special friends: Yolande Browne, the Skov family, Stedman and Patricia Dublin, Maria Friday and family, Florence Greenaway and family, Bevern Sage, Ray Clarke and family, Eva Rivera and family, Carolyn Jones and Lourdes Pagan; cousins and other relatives: Beverly Brathwaite, Joann Cole, Carla, Sandra and Joy Henry; Donalyn, Judith, Al, Idris and Samantha Matthew, Jessica Barthley, Darlene and Julie Lambert, Junie Brathwaite, Calvin and Kevin Martin, Tim, Ron, Kenny and Dickie Henry, Christobel Lewis, Denise Oliver; Janet and Cindy George, Bernadette Carr-Thompson, the Macoy family, Byam family, Francis family, Ira Matthew and family; as well as other relatives and friends too numerous to mention. The Memorial Service will be held at 10 a.m., Friday, April 19, at St. Ann’s Roman Catholic Church at 42 Barren Spot. Interment will be at Kingshill Cemetery.

Landlord Seeks to Evict V.I. Daily News in Ongoing Property Dispute

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Landlord Seeks to Evict V.I. Daily News in Ongoing Property Dispute
The landlord of the Virgin Islands Daily News has filed a complaint in V.I. Superior Court seeking to evict the newspaper from its St. Thomas office, claiming the business hasn’t paid the rent since last May, and prior to that had arbitrarily reduced the amount it was paying. The case appears linked to an ongoing property dispute between the Daily News Publishing Company and its president Archie Nahigian Jr., and the company he purchased the paper from in 2014.
According to the complaint, the Daily News Publishing Company entered a triple net lease agreement with the Daily News Holding Company, located in Scranton, Pennsylvania, on Feb. 25, 2020, agreeing to pay $270,000 over the 18-month term of the contract, or $22,500 per month. When the lease expired on Aug. 1, 2021, it continued to occupy the building in Estate Thomas and to pay rent, “thus converting the Lease into a month-to-month tenancy,” it says.
Thereafter, the paper began to reduce the amount it paid, according to the complaint. “On March 1, 2022, Tenant again arbitrarily began to reduce its rental payment to Landlord but still fully occupied the Property,” it says. Then, on May 31, 2023, the paper “ceased making any rent payment at all.”
According to the complaint, on Jan. 31 the holding company served the newspaper with a Notice of Termination and Notice to Quit the Premises by midnight on March 1, which was hand-delivered on Feb. 1. Besides offices and conference rooms, the building also houses the paper’s printing press. With the closure of the St. Croix Avis at the beginning of this year, the Virgin Islands Daily News serves as the territory’s only print newspaper.
“As of April 3, 2024, the date of the filing of this Complaint, Tenant has failed to vacate the Property as required and remains in possession of the Property despite the Lease Agreement having been terminated and thus, Tenant remains in unlawful possession of the Property without the Landlord’s permission,” the filing states.
The Daily News has not yet responded to the complaint, according to publicly available court records. However, a separate filing by the Scranton-based holding company in July 2022 shows the two have been in a dispute for years regarding an option for Nahigian to purchase a 30 percent tenant in common interest in the property for $675,000 that was tied to his option to buy the entire property under a 2014 lease agreement.
According to filings in that case, Nahigian sought the tenant in common interest deal in 2016 to legally offset capital gains taxes on a rental property he had sold in Washington, D.C., in what is known under federal tax law as a 1031 exchange.
However, the Daily News Holding Company alleges in its complaint that the deal was never closed and that no funds were paid, while Nahigian claims in his response and counterclaim that the closing occurred in April 2016 with a purchase contract, a balloon note and a warranty deed fully executed.
“At the request of DNHC, Nahigian agreed to refrain from recording the Warranty Deed because Nahigian understood that doing so could complicate DNHC’s financing,” according to his filing opposing the holding company’s motion for a preliminary injunction to allow it to sell the property to a third party. “Nahigian was not concerned about delay in recording because he had a course of dealings with this family-owned company, the parties trusted each other and DNHC recognized that Nahigian owned a 30 percent tenant in common interest in the Parcels.”
The holding company contends that “[b]esides not fulfilling any of his payment obligations to acquire the 30 percent interest in the Property, Nahigian decided not to have his company, Daily News Publishing Co., Inc. exercise the option given in his 2014 Lease to purchase the entire Property for $2,250,000 plus one half of any remaining rental payments. The last date for exercising the Option was September 30, 2018, and it expired on that date,” according to the complaint.
However, in early 2021, both parties began discussing a possible sale of the entire property to Nahigian or a company he controlled, but as “discussions progressed over the summer and fall, it became clear that Nahigian was not able or willing to buy the entire Property, but instead wanted only to buy a 30 percent interest in the Property,” tendering a check for $675,000 in February 2022 that was rejected as too late and too little, the complaint states.
“The attempted tardy tender did not include the 1.5 percent per month late charges that are imposed by the 2016 Contract, and which totaled nearly $300,000,” according to a September 2022 motion to dismiss Nahigian’s counterclaims. “Morever, DNHC unequivocally rejected the late and monetarily inadequate tender attempt.”
Nahigian has countered that the $675,000 check, while never cashed, was never returned, and that in March 2022, the newspaper began allocating rent to reflect the 70-30 percent ownership interest in the property. He has also demanded the return of $50,000 he said he paid in April 2021 as a deposit for the property.
The dispute has prevented the holding company from selling the property to another buyer due to liens placed by Nahigian, according to the filings.
On June 1, 2022, the holding company signed a contract to sell the property to Errol Baker for $1,950,000, according to the complaint. However, five days later Nahigian recorded four Notices of Interest with the St. Thomas Recorder of Deeds against the two parcels that comprise the property, asserting that he has an interest as purchaser by virtue of the 2016 contract.
In response, on July 29, 2022, the holding company filed a motion for a preliminary injunction to expunge the Notices of Interest to allow the sale to proceed, or for an emergency motion to allow the sale, which Nahigian has opposed, countering that “DNHC cannot legally sell 100 percent of the Parcels without the consent of VIDN, its tenant in common.” He also alleges that the holding company owes his company a share of the insurance proceeds it received following the 2017 hurricanes Irma and Maria, which he says caused considerable damage to the building that has not been remedied.
DNHS contends that Nahigian “is currently a holdover tenant in default of its payment obligations under a lease that expired last year. Nahigian was unwilling or unable to buy Plaintiff’s Property, and he does not want anybody else to buy it. Nahigian refused to have his corporation pay even the rents due under the expired lease with Plaintiff, and he has refused requests to enter a new lease. The Notices of Interest are nothing more than a ploy to keep him on the Property as a holdover tenant paying whatever rent he feel [sic] like paying.”
The court has not yet ruled on the various claims, counterclaims and motions to dismiss, or set a schedule for hearings or discovery in the matter.
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