The U.S. Virgin Islands Division of Festivals, in collaboration with the Department of Tourism, has announced the 2024 St. Thomas Carnival honorees.
“As we continue to grow our territory’s Carnival celebrations, it always brings us great pride to recognize and honor members of the community who embody the essence, culture and pride that is deeply ingrained in the event’s history,” said the Commissioner of Tourism Joseph Boschulte. “Please join me in celebrating our local champions of culture.”
Adults Parade: William ‘Champagne’ Chandler
Very few names and individuals in the world of pageantry and revelry can evoke images of splendor and candor smothered in a thick coating of sophistication. Virgin Islands native William ‘Champagne’ Chandler has been called the “King of Carnival,” representing the territory in regional and international competitions. The former president of the Roses and Champagne modeling group and Carnival Queen Selection Sub-Committee Queen chair, Champagne has nurtured and paved the way for many emerging in pageantry throughout the territory.
A national treasure. whose love for Carnival culture is forever etched in history, Chandler’s likeness was featured on the winning 1994 IFEA Gold Pinnacle Award poster that was commemorated as a postal stamp in 2002 for the 50th Anniversary of the Virgin Islands Carnival.
Children’s Parade: Ivanna Eudora Kean Music Program
A community staple since 1993, the Ivanna Eudora Kean High School Music Department has been helping to mentor local youth musicians in classical and traditional Caribbean music, often participating in Carnival parades and events. Under the helm of directors Anthony Nibbs and Shamoi Rodgers, and Department Chair Monet I. Davis, the Ivanna Eudora Kean High School program continues to rebuild and grow rising musical stars.
Food Fair Honoree: Mary ‘Ms. Sally’ George
A dedicated educator for over 30 years, Ms. Sally George founded Karibbean Kids in 2002, a culturally centered retail company specializing in cloth dolls incorporating traditional garb and folklore. Throughout the years, Ms. Sally George and Karibbean Kids have been a staple at Virgin Islands fairs and festivals and consistently rated atop the Economic Development Agency’s Made in the USVI lists, having expanded over the years to include more handmade products reflecting the persevering and creative spirit of the USVI..
Carnival Village: Malvern V. Gumbs
A lifelong resident of St. Thomas, Malvern Gumbs’ musical journey began in the church at age six. Years later, Gumbs’ long-built love has translated into a professional career with the Virgin Islands Department of Education, where he has taught music for over 25 years, mentoring future musical aficionados.
From his first participation at the age of 17, Gumbs has actively been engaged in the territory’s Carnival musical scene, having been a member of bands, mentored Junior Calypsonians, and supported pageantry contestants. An award-winning musician, he has played with some of the Caribbean region’s top artists and founded Spectrum Band, where he serves as the lead vocalist and arranger.
The 72nd annual St. Thomas Carnival kicks off April 13, with the Princess Show, and it will continue until May 4, with the adult parade and Village Night finale headlined by international superstar Shaggy.
“This class of honorees continues our longstanding tradition of honoring pillars of our culture,” said Ian Turnbull, director of festivals.
For a full calendar of events for St. Thomas Carnival, visit https://www.visitusvi.com/st-thomas-carnival.
For more information about the U.S. Virgin Islands and its offerings, visit https://www.visitusvi.com/.
