“The Art Show 2024” exhibit will kick off at the Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts in downtown Frederiksted on Jan. 20, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Patrons will be treated to live music, appetizers and a cash bar at the opening reception. The exhibit will run through Feb. 10.The Artists Guild supports the visual arts and artists of St. Croix and the artists who live and work on the island. The annual exhibit has fulfilled the mission of the group since its inception in 2013.The nonprofit organization boasts 30 members and a board of directors that includes Matt Jarvis, president; Cathy Booth, vice president; Jean Bishop, secretary; and Waldemar Brodhurst, George Graham and Shaunna Morrison, members-at-large. The Artists Guild Pop-Up Artist Market event was held on Art Thursday, November 2023, at the Comanche Hotel downstairs gallery. The Hotel’s garden was the venue for membership meetings, with thanks to owner Jack Pickel for his gracious offerings. “The Art Show 2024” will showcase paintings, sculptures, photography and mixed media art by 20 local artists. Matt Jarvis paints landscapes and portraits in oil.“Morning Sail.” Oil on canvas by Matt Jarvis (Photo courtesy Matt Jarvis)“Spirits Soar.” Oil on canvas by Matt Jarvis (Photo courtesy Matt Jarvis)Cathy Booth works in colored pencils and is also known for her lifesize mosaic tile murals. Booth shares her mosaic creations in a framed format. “Pink Jelly.” Mosaic by Cathy Booth (Photo courtesy Cathy Booth)Parrotfish mosaic by Cathy Booth (Photo courtesy Cathy Booth)Joyce Hickok credits her longtime Artists Guild membership with the support and inspiration she receives from other artists. “It got me started in mask making by participating in the Guild’s mask exhibit. Since then, I’ve created over 60 masks that have found homes for their distinctive personalities,” she said.“Happy Harry” Mask. Mixed media by Joyce Hickok (Photo courtesy Joyce Hickok)One of Hickok’s patrons has nine of her masks that found a home with him. Several people on St. Croix support her art by collecting seed pods and other natural materials for use in her mask-making.“Mr. Flame T. Flamboyant” Mask, originally from Madagascar but known throughout the world. Mixed media by Joyce Hickok (Photo courtesy Joyce Hickok)“I believe that people like my masks because they explore the African/Caribbean heritage of the Virgin Islands and the love of nature that so many of us enjoy living on a beautiful island. The Artists Guild provides me with the opportunity to sell my masks so I don’t have 60 personalities inhabiting my small apartment,” Hickok said with a chuckle.“Too Much Bubbly” Mask. Mixed media by Joyce Hickok (Photo courtesy Joyce Hickok)The Artists Guild invites the art community to become members. For more information:
artistsguildofstcroix.comcmcarts.org
Author Langley Shazor sits down with us in-studio to talk about his new book “Baby Daddy” while Consider the Source host Adisha Penn recaps the biggest headlines of the week including: an Agricultural Roundtable hosted by Delegate Stacey Plaskett, a grant for the territory’s first artificial reef and a financial update from Gov. Albert Bryan Jr.
The Virgin Islands tree boa’s scientific name has been changed from Epicrates monensis granti to Chilabothrus granti, which reflects the currently accepted taxonomy. (Photo by U.S. Fish and Wildlife)
I always tell people that my office has become international. I get so many phone calls and email messages from around the world, as well as locally and nationally, from people looking for information on a wide range of topics such as the history, culture, and the natural resources of the Virgin Islands. I never thought in my short life here on Earth, although I am more than a half a century old, that I would be in such demand by the world public.
Olasee Davis (Submitted photo)
The other day, I got a text about snakes, particularly the red-tailed boa (Boa constrictor), which is becoming a major invasive species on the island of St. Croix. The text came from one of our local TSA officers. As I spoke to the person, it got me thinking to write an article about snakes, although I have written about snakes in the past. Then I really began to think and say, why not mention the Virgin Islands tree boa (Chilabothrus granti)?
In the general public, there might be confusion at times about which snake is a red-tailed boa and which is the Virgin Islands tree boa. The V.I. tree boa is a federally and locally endangered protected snake species that is native to the British Virgin Islands, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Mona Island between Puerto Rico and Hispaniola, but not on Puerto Rico itself. The V.I. tree boa’s scientific name has been changed from Epicrates monensis granti to Chilabothrus granti, which reflects the currently accepted taxonomy. According to the Federal Register, the “Virgin Islands tree boa is a distinct species, not a subspecies, and Epicrates is no longer the scientifically accepted genus for this species.”
Our native V.I. tree boa is a non-poisonous snake. In other words, completely harmless to humans. These are the only snakes in our region with a very distinct pattern. According to the late Dr. William P. MacLean, the Virgin Islands tree boa’s body and tail are covered with irregular crossbars in dark brown on a light gray-brown background. Their bodies are cream with irregular darker markings. Their necks are quite distinct, and their heads are covered with irregular, small scales. The snake grows between 3 to 4 feet long.
Historically speaking, V.I. tree boas are usually found on the East End of St. Thomas’ dry, tropical semi-deciduous forests. These snakes are active primarily at night and eat nice, rats, and other small creatures like sleeping lizards. The habitats of these snakes are threatened due to the rapid East End developments on St. Thomas. However, there are ongoing scientific research projects by the North Carolina Zoo in collaboration with our local Fish and Wildlife Division of the Department of Planning and Natural Resources to find out and learn more about the V.I. tree boa’s behavior in the wild. Believe me, it is our V.I. tree boa that keeps rats and other rodents in check within our island’s natural environment.
The red-tailed boa (Boa constrictor) was brought into St. Croix illegally. It is against the law in the Virgin Islands to bring in exotic pets without getting permission from the proper authorities. The boa is becoming a nuisance to humans and wildlife on St. Croix. (Photo by Olasee Davis)
Nevertheless, the V.I. tree boa is not native to St. Croix and not found on the island. Like I mentioned earlier, it is native to the northern Virgin Islands and Mona Island. However, the red-tailed boa snake is becoming destructive to the wildlife population and the fear it has put in the people on St. Croix. Whenever I conduct a hike, I give rules and regulations, such as don’t touch plants — they might be poisonous — and stay behind the tour guide at all times unless I give you permission to be in front.
Also, I mention that we have wild exotic snakes on the island. The red-tailed boa snake is native to tropical South America. It is a large, non-venomous, heavy-bodied snake that sometimes can reach 13 feet long and is generally brown, gray, or cream in color, with patterns of brown or reddish-brown toward the tail. Thus, the name red-tailed boa constrictor.
The red-tailed boa (Boa constrictor) was brought into St. Croix illegally. It is against the law in the Virgin Islands to bring in exotic pets without getting permission from the proper authorities. The boa is becoming a nuisance to humans and wildlife on St. Croix. I have gotten reports where the red-tailed boa has eaten farmers’ chickens, roosters, eggs, and small animals. They also have eaten cats, iguanas, mongoose, wild birds, and small dogs.
While residents of St. Croix think the red-tailed boa lives in bushes or forest areas on the island, which they do to some extent, oftentimes these animals are being found in neighborhoods, backyards, or sometimes in somebody’s vehicle. This past year, there was a news release in the media telling residents in the Frederiksted area to check under the hood of your vehicle for snakes. Apparently, this species of snake loves warm areas.
A boa imperator constricts a Zenaida dove (Zenaida aurita) in October 2020 on St. Croix. (Photo by DPNR staff)
I don’t know of any in-depth local ecological research studies on the red-tailed boa’s behavior and movement in the natural environment of St. Croix. There is a paper, titled “Introduction of an Exotic Constricting Snake (Boa constrictor) and Its Establishments on St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands,” written by Nicole E. Angeli, William Coles, Shane McKinley, and Daniel G. Mulcahy.
“The temperate, suitable climate for the boas and an abundance of domestic mammals on St. Croix facilitates further boa spread and establishment in the years to come. Cats, dogs, goats, rats, mice, deer, tortoises, and mongoose are free ranging. Smaller livestock including pigs, sheep, calves, and chickens may be impacted,” noted the research paper. What we generally know is that the red-tailed boa is viviparous, which means they give live birth. In other words, the red-tailed boa doesn’t necessarily need a male to breed.
These animals are nocturnal. However, it all depends on the species or subspecies. The young boa constrictors may climb into trees to forage or just to bask in the sun. They become terrestrial mostly once they become much older and heavier snakes. If you see a red-tailed boa, it wouldn’t run after you. The snake is afraid of you as much as you might be afraid of it. When they perceive a threat, they will strike. Their bite can be painful, especially from a large snake. However, these snakes are rarely dangerous to humans if bitten.
Most of the snakes being caught on St. Croix are from the west and northwest of the island. However, snakes have been spotted at Food Town, Grove Place, Salt River Bay, Market and Marley Community in Frederiksted area to the Estate Little Princess. It is a matter of time how far the boas would spread throughout St. Croix. Again, they might create a niche in the environment depending on many factors in the island ecosystem.
Bill No. 34-0023 was passed to establish the Invasive Species Eradication Community Program. As of now, there is a bounty on the heads of the red-tailed boa. There is money involved in catching the boa. However, you must be a certified wildlife control operator. There are nearly 30 certified operators on St. Croix to help the public with invasive species such as the boa. St. Thomas and St. John are not out of the loop. The boa constrictor can be carried by people if not caught by TSA officers or on containers (boat/ship) traveling to our sister islands. Please don’t handle the snake yourself. Contact the DPNR through its website or by calling 340 7731082.
— Olasee Davis is a bush professor who lectures and writes about the culture, history, ecology and environment of the Virgin Islands when he is not leading hiking tours of the wild places and spaces of St. Croix and beyond.
Justin Smith as Martin Luther King Jr (left) and Robert L. Reffell (right) as Malcom X in the “The Meeting” a play by Jeff Stetson directed by Lionel Downer at CCT. (Submitted photo by CCT)
In the heart of St. Croix, Jeff Stetson’s compelling play “The Meeting,” skillfully directed by Lionel Downer, concludes its captivating run at the Caribbean Community Theater at this Sunday’s matinee.
The theater, a sanctuary of stories and emotions, promises an immersive journey into the human experience in its final performance. Characters, expertly portrayed by Justin Smith as Martin Luther King, Robert L. Reffell as Malcolm X and Wanson Harris as bodyguard Rashad, prepare for their last moments in the spotlight. Downer, the visionary director, orchestrates the climactic scenes with finesse this Martin Luther King, Jr. weekend.
In anticipation, Downer shared, “This play has been a labor of love for everyone involved. As we approach the final act, there’s a bittersweet symphony of emotions. We’ve poured our hearts into this production, and I believe the audience will feel that connection.”
The Caribbean Community Theater, a home to laughter, tears, and thunderous applause, prepares for a finale etched in memories.
As the clock ticks toward 4 p.m., the audience is invited to immerse themselves in this concluding act – an ode to creativity, community, and the timeless allure of the stage.
The curtain rises for the last time, casting a golden glow on the stage where characters have come to life. The echoes of the director’s vision and the actors’ dedication resonate through every line and gesture.
In bidding farewell to this theatrical masterpiece, the community acknowledges the profound impact of storytelling. Jeff Stetson’s play, under Lionel Downer’s direction, leaves an indelible mark on St. Croix’s cultural fabric – a tapestry enriched by emotions, stories, and shared moments at the Caribbean Community Theater.
Reserve your spot at eileencct@gmail.com or purchase tickets on Eventbrite here.
Check out our weekly weather forecast with Jesse Daley, covering Sunday, Jan. 14, through Saturday, Jan. 20. Our YouTube playlist is updated every week, AND check out Jesse’s daily weather updates here.
Student honorees at Friday’s awards event, front row from left, Szuri Malaika Zene Joshua, Portia Miles, Donnalee Issac, Justin Richards; and back row, Edward Foerstel, Anthony-Marvin Adimado, Jackson Auchincloss, Danya Esprit. (Source photo by Judi Shimel)
Parishioners, educators, and proud relatives filled the seats at the Hebrew Congregation of St. Thomas Friday night to witness the annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Scholarship Awards Ceremony. They came to honor eight high school students from public, private and parochial schools from the St. Thomas-St. John District.
Honorees were chosen for their community service contributions as well as submitted essays. In their essays, students were asked to express how their experiences demonstrate the principles expressed by the late Civil Rights leader.
Students from Charlotte Amalie High School, Antilles School, Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic School, Gifft Hill School, Ivanna Eudora Kean High School, St. Thomas-St. John Seventh-day Adventist School, V.I. Montessori School and Peter Gruber International Academy and All Saints Cathedral School took turns answering that question before the congregation and Rabbi Julia Margolis.
When they had finished, Margolis congratulated each scholarship winner and presented them with their prize. Included for each was a copy of the book, Shared Dreams: Martin Luther King and the Jewish Community.
“Our congregation is really happy to have you here tonight … each student honors their high school, their parents, their teachers and their principals,” Margolis said.
Four of the awardees cited King’s concerns for the environment in their presentations. Edward Foerstel from All Saints chose that as his focus, saying the most difficult challenge to improving the environment will be “uniting countries and our people” in taking a unified approach.
Portia Miles from Antilles School has put her concerns for the environment into service with the University of the Virgin Islands Marine Science Division. Miles said that towards the end of his life, King was “increasingly turning his attention towards the environment.”
VIMSIA’s Jackson Auchincloss also expressed concerns about “climate change that affects the most vulnerable populations.” To alleviate the problem, Auchincloss said he would like to redesign construction systems and methods and work on developing electric cars.
Donnalee Isaac from Eudora Kean focused on King’s efforts to promote “respectful dialogue among people.”
Danya Esprit from Sts. Peter and Paul spoke about her work with a group that visited the Dominican Republic to feed the poor.
Szuri Malaika Zene Joshua from Seventh-day Adventist said she was using her role as a student leader to encourage others to think of ways to serve humanity. “The greatest impact I can do for my community is to serve others,” Joshua said.
Justin Richards from Gifft Hill highlighted King’s work to relieve the struggles of the poor as well. He said he wanted to work towards addressing the delivery of healthcare services and relieve healthcare disparities.
Anthony-Marvin Adimado from CAHS addressed King’s efforts to build unity among people, and his wish to use artificial intelligence systems to erase language barriers.
Keynote speaker, UVI Provost Camille McKayle, praised students for delivering “eight amazing essays,” and for taking on the challenge of linking the inspiration for their service efforts to King’s teachings. “I encourage you to look at the life of Dr. King for attributes that you can incorporate into your lives,” McKayle said.
McKayle also heads the university’s division of Science and Mathematics.
Teams from St. Thomas and St. Croix during the opening ceremony. (Source photo by Diana Dias)
Batter Up! Pivot to Success Inc. hit a home run with the first Dennis Brow Baseball Invitational that began on Friday to a roaring crowd of about 100 people at the Rudy Krieger Ballpark on St. Croix – a first step toward welcoming other Little League teams from outside the U.S. Virgin Islands, said manager for the Junior National Team Denis Lynch.
In an opening ceremony Lynch said, “This is just the beginning – we are going to make this a staple point in the Virgin Islands. We have teams willing to come here from California, New York, and Atlanta, ready to touch down in the Virgin Islands, but we decided to bring it here first for interisland competition.”
Teams participating in the invitational include the Cubs, Archers, Indians, Rebels, Cardinals, and the Diamond Defenders, all teams from both St. Croix and St. Thomas.
The invitational was named in honor of living Virgin Islands legend Dennis Brow who played for the New York Yankees. Lynch said that in a loss last year they had a vision.
“St. Thomas made it very clear to us and that’s why we are here right now at this tournament. We need to address the deficits and gaps with baseball in the community and give the chances and the opportunities to the kids. The man that I am paying homage to right now is very instrumental in terms of pushing things forward in the Virgin Islands,” he said.
Teams gather with their coaches and teammates during the opening ceremony. (Source photo by Diana Dias)
Lynch said that Brow gave him the chance to represent the Virgin Islands in the Dominican Republic. “Most times in our culture, we do not tend to step aside and allow the youth to come forward and show their talent. Mr. Brow allowed me to do that and the respect I am giving every child the opportunity to do that as well,” he added.
Brow who was present at the opening ceremony said, “It is a great honor to be here and to be given this privilege.”
“To the youths, we all started right here,” Brow said as he pointed out a few previous Little League players in the crowd who were now adults serving as coaches, umpires, etc.
Brow said, “It is here we developed our skill set. Some of us are going to go far and some of us are going to benefit from this game that we respect so much called baseball. It is not about making it to the major leagues. I went to school on scholarship and played in college baseball and then the Yankees had an opportunity to see me, they liked what I presented and gave me the chance.”
Brow then thanked the coaches and said, “These are the people who dedicate the time, the effort in helping you kids to develop their skills to move to the next level.”
In a departing note, Brow shared, “One thing I have to say to you guys is to respect this game. This game is not a game to take as fun, have respect for it and respect your coaches, fellow players, umpires, and anyone who has contributed to this game. If you want to be good, you must prepare. You must work hard, day in and day out. What you do inside the game will help your ability to improve your skill.”
Games continued into Saturday at 9 a.m. and will continue Sunday at 11 a.m. at the Rudy Krieger Ballpark.
Sponsors for this event include Jolly Rogers, Her Care, IB Designs, Leumes Engineering Group, Plaza Extra East, J&P Construction LLC, Law Offices of Martial Webster, Medical Offices of Dr. Titus, V’Hair Affair LLC, St. Croix Dental, One Love Service Station, Reich LLC, Triple Beam Management and Consulting LLC, and Kai A. Nielsen the Water Smart Schools Grant.
Commissioner Gary Molloy of the V.I. Department of Labor (Photo courtesy of the Legislature of the VI)
In accordance with the Virgin Islands Code, the V.I. Department of Labor Commissioner Gary Molloy has announced the Unemployment Insurance Contribution Rate for the tax year 2024.
Starting Jan. 1, 2024, and ending Dec. 31, 2024, the Unemployment Insurance Contribution Rate is set at 4.11 percent. This rate comprises a base rate of 2.11 percent and a Fund Solvency Rate of 2.0 percent.
Each employer will have a Tax Rate Factor added to the Contribution Rate based on the calculated tax rate interval ranking, as stipulated by the law. Additionally, no tax rates will exceed the statutory cap of 5.4% or fall below the baseline of 0.4%.
Employers are required to apply their final tax rate to each employee’s earned wages, not exceeding $31,000.00, for the tax year 2024.
The Department of Labor will dispatch Employers’ Annual Rate Notices via e-mail and the U.S. Postal Service by Jan. 31, 2024.
For inquiries regarding the Annual Rate Notice, contact the Department of Labor via e-mail at uitax@dol.vi.gov or call 15-5709 to ask for an unemployment insurance (UI) tax representative.
Jade Sunshine Barber
The family of Jade Sunshine Barber announces her passing on Dec. 31, 2023, due to complications from surgery. Jade’s vibrant, funny, one-of-a-kind spirit, joy for life and loving heart touched the lives of everyone she met. We take comfort in knowing that Jade is in a better place, in the blessed arms of our Lord. May her memory always be a blessing to her family and friends.
Jade Sunshine Barber was born on April 21, 1994, in Lancaster, England, to Suzanne Darrow-Magras and John Anthony Barber. She was a big sister to Alice Moon Barber, a loving stepdaughter to Dana Anthony Magras and Leticia Barber, and siblings Christopher and Jessica Magras, and Emmanuel Jose Gines Manalo.
Her early years were spent in Connecticut, before moving to St. Thomas in 2004. Jade’s educational journey included Cornwall Consolidated School in Cornwall, Conn., Joseph Sibilly Elementary School, and All Saints Cathedral School on St. Thomas. She was a proud graduate of the Class of 2012 from Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic School on St. Thomas. Jade excelled academically, as evidenced by her membership in the National Honor Society and her active participation in the V.I. School of Visual Arts and Careers. She was also a member of the St. Thomas Swimming Association swim team.
Jade’s pursuit of higher education led her to Sacred Heart University, in Fairfield, Conn., where she graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology in 2015. She furthered her studies at Central Connecticut State University in New Britain, Conn., earning a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy, summa cum laude, in 2019.
During her college years, Jade devoted herself to community service, contributing to soup kitchens, Habitat for Humanity and clothing donation programs. She was a guiding light as a peer leader and a member of the Delta Kappa Chi Chapter of the International Marriage and Family Therapy Honor Society.
Before returning to St. Thomas in 2020, Jade worked as a therapist at the American Center for CBT in East Hartford, Conn., and the Klingberg Family Therapy Center’s Ana Grace “Love Wins” program in New Britain, Conn. Her innate ability to connect with people, marked by openness, love, non-judgment and insight, was a gift that she shared generously. On St. Thomas, Jade enjoyed working at Rhiannon’s in Red Hook and Prana Spa in Yacht Haven Grande. She was also an artist and painter with a love for vibrant colors and her work was displayed at Mystic Valley in Tillet Gardens on St. Thomas.
Jade’s adventurous spirit led her to travel. She often returned to England and Connecticut, and her travels included visits to Paris, France and Barcelona, Spain, with the Charlotte Amalie High School French Club, and a memorable Caribbean cruise.
An avid gamer, Jade found joy and community in playing video games, board games and Dungeons and Dragons at the Virgin Islands Videogame Network gaming lounge and in spending time with family and friends. Her passions extended to Anime, ComiCons, Cos-Play events, cooking, fashion, music and a wide array of creative pursuits. In 2023, she joined the L ‘Amour Carnival Troupe, embracing the V.I. Carnival spirit.
Jade was preceded in death by her fraternal grandparents: John and Delicia Barber; fraternal uncle, Raymond Barber; maternal grandmother, Irene Darrow; maternal uncles: Vincent Greaux and Jason Magras; and maternal cousin, Christopher Mack.
We also honor the memory of her recently departed maternal grandfather, Louis Harry ‘Bilco’ Magras.
Jade is survived by her maternal grandparents: Michael and MaryAnn Darrow, and Florie Magras; maternal aunts: Christine and Lynn Darrow, Maribeth Darrow-Doubleday, Nancy Richards, Donna Greaux, Dora Cerge, Eileen Magras, Stacey Magras and Annette Magras; and maternal uncles: George Chylinski, Joshua Doubleday, Patrick Cerge, Duane Magras and Brian Magras.
She is also survived by her maternal cousins: Danielle and Jeffrey Chylinski, Marianne Doubleday, Cindy and Eric Holz, Lauren Mack, Laurie Ryan, Nikki Greaux, Amanda Greaux, Kevin Greaux, Melanie Bozzi, Eddie Magras, Danny Magras, Jamie Aubain, Melissa and Eric Steffens, and Marjorie, Beverly and Cain Magras; and fraternal uncles: Michael Barber, Stephen Barber, Michael McDonald and Russell McDonald-Barber.
Other survivors include fraternal cousins: Darren, Emma, Tyler and Paige Barber; extended family members and special friends: Le’Niya Lewis, Jaela and Jaedyn Williams, Roy Magras, Alex Raymond, Hunter Simpson, Elizabeth Jaeger, the Phillips family, Nyda Simmons, Miranda Goad, Jovan Bernier, Fay Mitchell, Buffy Weis, Rhiannon’s Prana Spa staff, VIVN and L ’Amour Carnival Troupe members and classmates; as well as many others too numerous to mention.
A celebration of Jade’s life will take place at Turnbull’s Funeral Home at 10 a.m., Jan. 21, with a reception following at the Frenchtown Community Center. Attendees are asked to wear Jade’s favorite color purple or bright colors. In lieu of flowers, donations are welcomed to the Jade Sunshine Barber Memorial Fund, supporting young individuals at the VI Videogame Network (https://www.vivideogamenetwork.com/about-3-).
Jade’s memory will forever be a guiding light and a source of joy to all who knew her. May her spirit continue to inspire and bless us.
Expressions of sympathy can be made online at www.turnbullsfuneralhomevi.com.
Funeral arrangements are under the care of Turnbull’s Funeral Home and Crematory Services.
Patrica Byrd Canson
Patricia Byrd Canson (née Smith) was born on Sept. 9, 1942, in the Philadelphia suburb of Abington, Penn., to Hugh Maxwell Smith Sr. and Kathryn Ervin Smith (née Burgess).
The eldest of her parents’ children, she grew up on Saint Thomas, Virgin Islands, where the family moved, and in the Philadelphia suburbs after her parents’ separation.
Sent on a summer visit to Saint Thomas with her younger brother, Hugh, to see their father, she ended up staying there for several years attending All Saints Cathedral School and Charlotte Amalie High School.
Pat was raised primarily in and around Philadelphia, including in Wyncote, where her mother’s parents resided, and considered herself a “Philadelphia girl.” Since her mother moved often, she spent a lot of time with her maternal grandparents and changed schools often. From this shuttling between homes in the Virgin Islands and stateside, she expressed that as a child she often felt as if she did not belong, always the new girl breaking into a new circle of friends, something that helped shape her easy way with others.
That started to change while attending Germantown High School in Philadelphia, where she had a circle of close friends and acquaintances. She graduated from Germantown High School in 1960.
Pat felt she truly belonged when she matriculated at Morgan State College (now university), her parents’ alma mater, where everyone was new to each other and had to create circles of friends. She loved it. She met and made many lifelong friends, including her husband, Clarence Bernard Canson of Sacramento, Calif.
At Morgan, Pat pledged the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and was active in Greek life. She graduated in 1964 with a degree in English, proud to be a grammarian with a prodigious vocabulary honed as a crossword enthusiast and Scrabble player.
Three events in 1965 were emblematic of Pat’s life: her marriage to Clarence, the start of her career at Trans World Airlines (TWA), and the birth of her first pet, Genghis Khan.
In 1965, Pat married Clarence, her love and life partner. They lived a carefree year in New York City, before moving to Washington, D.C., where Clarence attended medical school. They then moved to Chicago, where Clarence completed his internship and residency before moving to the Bay Area, where they spent the rest of their lives.
With a shared love of jazz, Pat and Clarence were yearly attendees at the Monterey, Russian River and San Jose Jazz Festivals and enjoyed festivals in Canada and Europe as well. They hosted many parties with friends at their homes. It was a home where many younger siblings, nieces, nephews and other close relatives spent summers. Pat and Clarence were inseparable for 44 years until his death in 2010.
In 1965, after graduating from Morgan, Pat began her career at TWA, one of the United States’ two large international airlines during the golden age of air travel. The glamour fit her well, her style perfectly suited to jetting off to Paris, London or Madrid. She was based in New York, Chicago and San Francisco. While all wonderful, she considered the time spent in Chicago the best time of her life, with great TWA friends a highlight. Though the jet age had begun before she joined TWA, she had the pleasure of working on the Lockheed Constellation, a large propeller-driven plane, before TWA went all jet in 1967. Being a flight attendant was a profession she thoroughly enjoyed. Pat remained at TWA for 30 years until her retirement in 1995.
The last defining event of 1965 was Genghis’ arrival. He featured in Pat’s life and in her stories for many years. While Genghis was the first and an icon, he was followed by Bojangles, amongst others. Pat’s bond with pets was steadfast. After retirement from TWA, Pat fostered many pets, some of whom adopted her along the way. Two of her beloved pets, Jazz and Marley, predeceased Pat earlier in the year of her passing. Pat was survived by Ginger, who provided comfort during Pat’s transition.
Pat was renowned for her wit and sarcasm. Whether collected or invented, she never missed a beat in responding. Given a little time, she could win over people, noting that “with humor, you can say just about anything to anyone.”
“All good things must come to an end, even this one,” she said, pointing to herself, shortly before she departed.
Patricia Byrd Canson died on Aug. 17, 2023, near her home in Pinole, Calif. May her soul rest in everlasting peace.
Pat was preceded in death by her brother, Hugh “Buddy” Maxwell Smith Jr.
Pat is survived by siblings: Ronald Smith, Michelle Smith-Roberts, Steven Smith, Michael Smith, and Celeste Smith Webbe and Paul Smith; stepmother, Harriet Smith; sisters-in-law, Faythe Canson Clark, Veronica Handy, Leslie Smith, Dr. Althea Tyndall-Smith and Latoya Smith; brother-in-law, Donald Webbe; and nieces: Maya Clark, Nicole Smith, Jasper Ross, Kendall Smith and Alysya Smith.
She is also survived by nephews: Philip Clark, John Ross, Jr, Michael Ross, Aaron Smith, Brendan Smith, Christian Webbe, Daniel Webbe, Maxwell Smith, Miles Smith, Jayvyn Smith and Christopher Smith.
Other survivors include cousins: Carlos Smith, James (Frankie) Smith, Janice Smith Varlack, Jean (Jeanie) Smith, Jacqueline (Jackie) Smith Wynter, Milton Turnbull, Leroy Smith, Diana Smith Stewart, Marguerite Smith Dredden, Jeffrey Smith, Gary Smith, Juel Smith Norton, Imani Burnett, Phyllis Goodman and Jacqueline Hall, cousins-in-law: Dr. Patricia Canson, and Aurin Canson; great nephews: Nyah Henry Jr., Jeremiah Henry and John Ross III; many other relatives; and special friends: Sheila Webb and Monica diFalco.
A celebration of Pat’s life will be held at 4 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 13, 2024, at Pavilion 4 on Magens Bay.
