Declaring "this is the worst it's ever been," local businessman and marine industry leader Rik Van Rensselaer is very concerned about the island's economy.
"I've been here for 23 years, and I've never seen the island in such a mess," Van Rensselaer said. And he has plans to do something about it.
In an economic slump, people tend to lose sight of their spending and get into debt. This is a common situation, both here and in the states. Van Rensselaer has a solution called "Money Masters Seminars," which just might give local people the impetus they need to climb out of debt.
"It takes guts to pick up a pair of scissors and cut up those credit cards, but that's where it has to begin," he said.
The seminars are designed to address anyone in debt and worried about it; anyone concerned about retirement income; those wanting to quit their present job and explore something new – in short, anyone concerned about building a solid economic future which allows for freedom of choice.
The community-minded Van Rensselaer is a founding member of VITAAL, the V.I. Tourism Awareness and Advancement Link headed by Mable Maduro. He is also a founder and active member of VIMI (Virgin Islands Marine Industries). Van Rensselaer ran his own boat, "Flute," out of Red Hook for 16 years.
His wife, Corinne, is also an active member of the business community. She owns the popular Color of Joy art gallery and gift shop at American Yacht Harbor.
Saying that new Licensing and Consumer Affairs Commissioner Andrew Rutnik is "like a breath of fresh air," Van Rensselaer praised both Rutnik and acting Tourism Commissioner Michael Bornn.
"There is a large support group of inventive and intelligent people in the private sector more than willing to help the island, if given a chance," Van Rensselaer said.
Anyone interested in cutting up their credit cards, or just getting a better hold on their money can contact Van Rensselaer at 340-779-2603 or e-mail him at vi.yachts@virginislands.net.
