Commentary

Moleto A. Smith Jr. advises that “Despite the current stresses that negatively impact the mental health of many of our community members, the good news is that mental illnesses are treatable.”

Mark A. Walters gives an overview of how the U. S. Virgin Islands has and is dealing with the pandemic. He says that FEMA, VITEMA and the public are ready to get through the double threat of pandemic and hurricane season.

Winston Nugent has written a poem dedicated to all the young black men who died from gun violence.

The Virgin Islands Bureau of Corrections responds to the payroll issues raised by correctional officers and other employees.

Trevor Velinor gives his perspective on being the police commissioner and enumerates the many ways the public and VIPD can work together to bring down crime in the territory.

Much of the Caribbean is still struggling to obtain vaccines against COVID-19. David Jessop writes that by sharing some of the 60 million spare doses it has available, the U.S. would powerfully signal its interest in a renewed partnership.

Stephen DePaula Jr. writes: "We ignored the warning signs, the Trip Advisor reviews, and the facts. As a result, we were assaulted at gunpoint and robbed."

The St. Thomas and St. John Chamber of Commerce praises Governor Bryan and Delegate to Congress Plaskett for leading the Virgin Islands through the present pandemic. It agrees with the governor must now look to diversification of the V.I. economy.

Mary L. Moorhead praises the appointment of Stephanie Berry, a person of great experience, to be the new executive director of the Virgin Islands Board of Education.

A few days ago, CARICOM foreign ministers had a first meeting with their new U.S. counterpart. The emphasis was on inclusivity and partnership. David Jessop suggests that this should be the moment when the U.S. develops an integrated program that supports Caribbean recovery and long-term development.