Sept. 5, 2001 – Things are heating up once again for the Texas Society of the Virgin Islands' annual Chili Cook-Off. This one — No. 17 — is set for Sept. 23 at Sapphire Beach.
"It's a great day of fun, whether you sign up to cook or come out to sample all the different types of chili," organizer Georgeann "Pepper" Peters says.
The event began inauspiciously in 1984 when Texas native Diane Runyan invited five friends and their families to cook up their best pots of chili in the backyard of her Contant home. The informal gathering was such a red-hot success that it grew the next year into the first Virgin Islands Chili Cook-Off, held at the old For The Birds restaurant on Scott Beach.
In 1994, the "Virgin Pod" joined 62 other "pods," or member groups, on the U.S. mainland and in Canada that make up the Chili Appreciation Society International.
Cooking up the best pot of chili is the main immediate objective of participants in the family-oriented fun day on St. Thomas, but the event goes beyond that, according to Peters, who holds the title of Great Pepper of the Virgin Pod and represents the territory at the international society's annual meeting. "The whole purpose behind the chili competition is to have fun and to raise money for charity," she says.
There's a serious side to the cook-off, though — rules and regulations. There can be no beans in cook-off chili, for example. "Competition or regulation chili is simply meat and seasonings, no fillers," Peters explains. It's the mix of spices, herbs and other flavorings added to the meat during cooking that's going to persuade the panel of judges. The winning cook gets a trip for two to the annual World Champion Chili Cook-off in Terlingua, Tex., in November.
Last year, Louis Hull beat out 37 other cooks in the V.I. competition.
Calling all chili cooks
Anyone can compete to produce the best Virgin Islands "pot o' red." (Off-islanders who cook their way around the chili circuit trying to accumulate "points" have been known to show up and take part.) The $25 entry fee gets you a 10-foot-square booth spot on Sapphire Beach. At the meeting for head cooks the evening before the event, participants draw numbers for booth spaces and go over the rules and regulations with fellow "Chiliheads."
At 6 a.m. the next morning — after ingredients have passed inspection — comes the order: Fire up your chili pots. "Cooks can cut up their meat ahead of time, but beyond this, everything has to be prepared from scratch at the beach," Peters says. In the official rules, "scratch" is defined as starting with raw meat. No marinating is allowed. At noon, each head cook is to turn in a coded regulation cupful of the results to the judges.
During preparation, commercial chili powder is permissible, but all-in-one or pre-measured chili mixes — the kind that advertise "just add meat" on the box — are not. Not to give away any secrets, but the winning recipe at Terlingua last year boasted nearly 20 ingredients in addition to the meat, including two brands of commercial chili powder, cayenne pepper, tomato sauce, chicken broth, beef broth, onion powder, garlic powder, brown sugar, cumin and sazon.
Cooks must provide their own stove and fuel, typically propane or white gas, as no charcoal is permitted, Peters says. Other suggested essentials include a cooking vat, cutting board, knife, water, cooler for the meat, paper towels, can opener, spoons and recipe ingredients, plus with table, chairs and sun-umbrella or tent. Those planning to compete for the annual showmanship award as well will need their decorations and props.
The panel of tasting experts samples each cup of chili, and each judge assigns it numerical ratings in five criteria — aroma, consistency, red color, taste and aftertaste. At the end, the numbers are totaled, and around 4:30 p.m. the winners are announced.
Meanwhile, the showmanship competition begins at 12:30 p.m. "Think up a theme, grab a few props and costumes, work up a number or skit and join in the fun," Peters invites. A different set of judges will rate the showmanship competitors in the areas of theme, costume, booth set up, action and audience appeal.
Eat, drink, play games and enjoy the music
While a few dozen folks do the cooking, thousands turn out to taste their wares, which go on sale in sample-size cups for 25 cents a taste starting at noon. After submitting their official chili for judging, competitors are free to toss in fillers — such as beans, rice and hominy. For the eating public, if not the judges, there's usually even vegetarian chili. Cold drinks are also available.
The afternoon will also feature games and live music. "We'll have flipper races, watermelon spitting seed contests, volleyball and tug-of-war," Peters says. There'll be something heavy, too: This year's Chili Cook-Off is also the venue for the Coors Light Extreme Silver Summer Sumo Wresting finals.
In addition to providing an enjoyable afternoon, "the whole point of the cook-off is to give back to the island we've adopted as our home," Peters says. The event benefits the Queen Louise Home for the Aged, the St. Thomas/St. John chapter of the American Red Cross, Family Support Network, St. Thomas Rescue, V.I. Institute of Performing Arts, St. Thomas Swimming Association, Kidscope and Dial-A-Ride.
To get an application form and the rules and regs, or to obtain more information, call Peters at 775-8011.

Sept. 5, 2001 – Fine wine connoisseurs, take note: When the winter tourism season starts in December, Caneel Bay Resort will open its new 1,000-bottle wine room — which will include a private dining area that seats a dozen people.
"This reflects our ongoing and never-ending attempt to improve the property," general manager Brian Young said.
The wine room will be an extension of Turtle Bay Restaurant, the resort's most exclusive dining room. Young said the property's rarest and most expensive wines already are stored and served at Turtle Bay. The wine room, which will be temperature controlled, will provide an improved storage environment for those and other wines.
He said two walls will be added to the existing building in order to create the wine room.
Caneel Bay has asked contractors to submit proposals. Bid documents will be available beginning Friday, and proposals are due by Sept. 21. Young said he expects work to start Oct. 1. He declined to estimated the project's cost before bids are in.

DOWNTOWN
Beni Iguana's Sushi Bar
Grand Hotel. Lunch, dinner 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Sushi, salads. $/$$. Cards: MC, V, AX. 77- SUSHI. (777-8744)
Bumpa's
Waterfront. Breakfast, lunch 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Breakfast, salads, sandwiches. $. No cards. 776-5674.
Caesar's Ristorante
Frenchman's Reef. Open 7 a.m.-11 p.m., Closed Tues. & Wed. Cards D,V, MC, AX. 776-8500.
Cafe Amici
Waterfront and Riise's Alley. Lunch 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Happy Hour 4 p.m.-7 p.m. $. Cards: V, MC, AX. 776-5670.
Club Ryno Tropical Cafe
Palm Passage. Lunch Mon.-Sat.11 a.m.-6 p.m.;Sunday brunch 11 a.m-3 p.m.; Dinner 6-10 p.m.Thurs. & Fri.$$/$$$. Cards: AX, V, MC, 776-8015.
Captain's Cafe
Frenchman's Reef. Open daily 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Cards D, V, MC, AX. 776-8500.
Coconuts
Back Street. Lunch Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. American, seafood. $. 774-0099.
Cool Corner Deli
Commandant Gade. Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. West Indian. $. No cards. 776-9711.
Crazy Cow
33 Raadets Gade. 6 a.m.-4 a.m. Hamburgers, milkshakes, West Indian. $. No cards. 774-8518.
Cuzzin's
Back Street. Lunch Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Dinner Tue.-Sat. 5-9:30 p.m. West Indian. $. Cards: AX. 777-4711.
Diamond Barrel
18 Norre Gade. Lunch Mon.-Sat. 11:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Dinner 6:30-10 p.m. West Indian. $/$$. 774- 5071.
Downtown Deli
Grand Hotel. Breakfast, lunch Mon.-Sat. 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Free downtown delivery. $. No cards. 777-4611.
Fagioli Ristorante
Waterfront next to Pizza Hut. Lunch 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Dinner 5:30-10:30 p.m. Mon.-Sat. Arthur Williams jazz saxophone 7-10 p.m. Fri and Sat. Italian cuisine. Cards: V, MC, AX, D. $/$$. 777-8116.
Fergie’s
Bluebeard’s Castle, all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet daily from 7:30-11 a.m., dinner nightly, with an Italian buffet on Saturday nights.
Glady's Cafe
Royal Dane Mall. Breakfast, lunch Mon.-Sat. 7 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Mon.-Sat. West Indian, continental. $. Card: AX, V, MC. 774-6604.
Grandma Sandy's
Royal Dane Mall. Homemade cookies, cakes, gourmet coffees & teas, gift baskets, etc. 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Mon.-Sat. $/$$$. No cards. 714-2340
Green House
Waterfront. Breakfast 8-11 a.m. Lunch, dinner 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Steaks, ribs, seafood. $. Cards: AX, V, MC, DC. 774-7998.
Hard Rock Cafe
Waterfront and International Plaza. Lunch, dinner 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Burgers, sandwiches, barbecue, vegetarian. $/$$. Cards: AX, V, MC. 777-5555.
Hardwood Grill
Drake's Passage. Mon.-Sat. breakfast 7:30-10:30 a.m. Lunch 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Bar 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. American, West Indian. $. Cards: AX. 774-6054.
Head of Pave Street Cafe
Norre Gade. Mon.-Fri 7.am.-3 p.m. West Indian, some vegetarian. Boiled fish, tofu with rice and veggies, chicken. $. 774-2340
Hervé Restaurant
Government Hill. Lunch Mon.-Fri. 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Dinner 6-10 p.m. American, French, Caribbean. $/$$. Cards: AX, V, MC. 777-9703.
Hotel 1829
Government Hill. Lunch Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Dinner 6:30-10 p.m. Continental. $$$/$$$$. Reservations requested. Cards: AX, V, MC, D. 776-1829.
H & S Restaurant
Market Square. Breakfast, lunch Mon.-Sat. 6 a.m.-7 p.m. West Indian. $. No cards. 774-5474.
Lillian’s Caribbean Grill
Grand Hotel. Breakfast, Lunch Mon.-Sat. 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. West Indian. Stew chicken, salt fish, meat loaf, bush tea. $/$$. 774-7900
Marisol
Government Hill. Lunch Mon.-Fri.11 a.m.-3p.m. Dinner Mon.-Sun. 6 p.m.-11 p.m. $$ Live music Thurs. and Fri. night beginning at 7 p.m. Cards: MC, Visa, AX. 776-1200
New Golden Dragon
Berne's Alley. Lunch, dinner 11 a.m.-10 p.m. daily. Chinese. $. No cards. 777-8111.
On the Bay
Windward Passage Hotel. Breakfast 7-10:30 a.m. Lunch 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Dinner 6-10 p.m. West Indian, Italian. $/$$. Cards: AX, V, MC, D. 774-5200.
Percy's Bus Stop
Waterfront. Mon.-Sat. 7:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. West Indian. $. No cards. 774-5993.
Pita Express Delivery
Back Street behind Caribbean Safari. Lunch Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Delivery 11 a.m.-3 p.m. $. 777-4072.
Presto
Frenchman's Reef. Convenience shop. Coffee bar, snacks, beer, wine and spirits. Open 24 hours. 776-8500.
Red Snapper
Back Street. Lunch 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Sat. Dinner 6:30-10:30 p.m. Sat. and Sun. West Indian. $. No cards. 776-4352.
Ricky's Diner
3B Kongens Gade. Lunch Mon.-Sat. 11:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. West Indian. $. No cards. 774-7558.
Rosie O'Grady's
Back Street. Mon.-Sat. 10:30 a.m.- 10 p.m. Sandwiches, pizza. $. Cards: AX, MC, V. 777-4383.
The Roti Shop
75 Corner. Mon.-Fri. 7 a.m.-5 p.m. West Indian. $. No cards. 714-1741.
So Soup Me Back Street. Soups, pastries. 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
777-5366.
Sunset Grill & Bar
Frenchman's Reef. Lunch 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Dinner 6 p.m.-10 p.m. Closed Thur. & Fri. Cards D,V,MC, AX. 776-8500.
Tasha's Place
Market Square Mon.-Sat. Lunch, dinner noon-10 p.m. West Indian food. $. No cards. 774-5826.
Tavern on the Beach
Frenchman's Reef. Dinner 6 p.m.-10 p.m. Closed Sun.-Mon. Cards D,V, MC, AX. 776-8500.
Tavern on the Waterfront Waterfront. Lunch Mon.-Fri. noon-2:30 p.m. Dinner Mon.-Sat. 6-10 p.m. 776-4328
Virgilio's
Back Street. Mon.-Sat. Lunch 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Dinner 5-10:30 p.m. Italian. $$/$$$. Cards: AX, V, MC, D, CB. Reservations requested. 776-4920.
Windows
Frenchman's Reef. Breakfast 7 a.m.-11 a.m., Dinner 6 p.m.-10 p.m. Friday night seafood buffet and Sunday Brunch 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Cards D,V, MC, AX. 776-8500.
Wok D Lite
75 Corner. Lunch, dinner Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Chinese. $. No cards. 777-8950.
ABOVE TOWN
Banana Tree Grille
Bluebeard's Castle. Tue.-Sun. Dinner 6-9:30 p.m. $$. Cards: AX, V, MC. 776-4050.
Lindy's
Mafolie Hotel. Dinner 6-11 daily. Steaks, crab, lobster, daily happy hour and seafood bar. $$$. V, AX, MC. 774-8643
Palms Court Harborview
Lower Solberg. 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Continental, French, West Indian. $$. Cards: V, MC, AX. 774- 5292.
Room with a View
Bluebeard's Castle Hotel. Mon.-Sat. Dinner 5-10 p.m. Light fare 10 p.m.-1 a.m. at wine bar. $/$$. Cards: MC, Visa, AX, Discover. 774-2377, 774-1600 Ext. 340.
The Inn at Blackbeard’s Castle
Blackbeard’s Castle. Lunch served Wed thru Sat. Dinner until 10 p.m. nightly, bar menu served until 12:30 a.m. Entertainment each evening. 776-1234
Sib's on the Mountain
Mafolie Road. 5:30-11 p.m. Seafood, ribs, pasta, salads. $/$$. Cards AX, V, MC. 774-8967.
Terrace Restaurant
Bluebeard's Castle. Breakfast 7-10:30 a.m. Lunch 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Dinner 5:30-10 p.m. Pastas, seafood, salads. $/$$. Card: AX, MC, D, V. 774-1600 ext. 339.
LONG BAY
Cafe Havensight Havensight Mall. Lunch 11 a.m.-5 p.m. American, West Indian. $. Cards: V, MC. 774-5818. Cream and Crumb Shop Havensight. Mon.-Sat. 6:30 a.m.-6 p.m. American, ice cream. $. No cards. 774-2499.
Delly Deck
Havensight. Breakfast, lunch Mon.-Sat. 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. American. $. No cards. 776-9943. Kum Wah Mandela Circle. Lunch, dinner Mon.-Sat. 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Chinese. $. Cards: AX, 774-5575.
Little Bo Peep
Barbel Plaza. Take-out breakfast Mon.-Sat. 7 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Lunch 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. West Indian. $. No cards. 774-1959.
Local Bakery and Deli
Vitraco Park. Breakfast, lunch 6 a.m.-6:30 p.m. daily. West Indian. $. No cards. 776-1620.
Off Shore Bar and Grill
Port of Sale Mall. Mon-Fri. 9 a.m.-3 a.m. Sat. and Sun. 11 a.m.-2 a.m. Live music Wed.-Mon. 9:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m. Sandwiches, salads, gourmet pizza. Cards: MC, V, D, AX. $. 779-6400
Paradise Point Cafe Paradise Point. 9 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Sandwiches,
pasta. $/$$. All cards. 777-1182.
FRENCHTOWN
Alexander's Cafe Frenchtown Mall. Dinner Mon.-Sat. 5:30-10 p.m. Lunch Mon.-Fri. 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Austrian, German, seafood. Reservations accepted. $/$$. Cards: AX, V, MC. 774- 4349.
Alexander's Bar and Grill Frenchtown Mall. Food served Mon.-Thur. 11:30 a.m.-11:30 p.m. Fri.-Sat. 11:30 a.m.-midnight. Burgers, steaks, ribs, seafood. $/$$. Cards: AX, V, MC. 774-4349.
Andiamo
Frenchtown. Sun.-Thu. 11:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Italian cuisine. Reservations required. 776-7916.
Betsy's Bar
Frenchtown. Dinner 6-10 p.m. Tues.-Sat. Grilled food. $. No cards. 774-9347. No reservations.
Chickie's Place
Frenchtown. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Dinner Sat. 6 p.m.-11 p.m. Closed Sun. $/$$ Fine dining, french cuisine prepared by Cordon Bleu chef. Cards: MC, AMX, VISA. 714-2204
Craig and Sally's
Lunch Wed.-Fri. 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Dinner Wed.-Sun. 5:30-10 p.m. Menu changes daily. Reservations suggested. $/$$. Cards: AX, MC, V. 777-9949.
The Dinghy Dock
Gregory East Channel. Breakfast Mon-Fri 6-11 a.m.; Lunch and dinner Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Sat.-Sun. 1 p.m.-11 p.m. Fresh seafood, burgers, chicken. $/$$. No cards. 774-6575
Epernay
Frenchtown Mall. Dinner Mon.-Thur. 5:30-11 p.m. Fri., Sat. 5:30 p.m.-3 a.m. $/$$. Cards: AX, V, MC. 774-5348.
Frenchtown Deli
Frenchtown Mall. Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. $. Cards: AX. 776-7211.
Hook, Line and Sinker
2 Honduras. Breakfast 7-10 a.m. Lunch 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Dinner 6 p.m.-10 p.m. Mon.-Sat. American. $/$$. Cards: AX, V, MC. 776-9708.
The Pointe at Villa Olga
Dinner 5:30-10 p.m. Steaks, seafood. $/$$. Cards: MC, V, AX, DC. 774-4262.
SUB BASE/CONTANT
Arian's
Sub Base. Mon.-Sat. 7 a.m.-10 p.m. West Indian, American. $. No cards. 776-1401.
Ashley's
Airport Road. 6 a.m.-10 p.m. West Indian. $. No cards. 774-1533.
Chester Chicken
Contant. Breakfast 7-10:30 a.m. Lunch, dinner 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Mon.-Sat. West Indian. $. No cards. 774-7470.
Domino's Pizza
Nisky Center. Sun.-Thur. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Fri., Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. $. 777-5505.
Island Beachcomber
Airport Road. Breakfast 7:30-10:30 a.m. Lunch 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. daily. Dinner Mon.-Sat. 6:30- 10 p.m. American, West Indian, continental. $$. Cards: AX, V, MC, D, DC, CB. 774-5250.
L'Escargot
Sub Base. Lunch Mon.-Fri. 11:45 a.m.-3 p.m. Dinner Mon.-Sat. 6:30-10 p.m. Caribbean, Italian, Latin. Reservations requested. $$. Cards: AX, V, MC. 774-6565.
Munchie Parlor
Nisky Center. Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Snacks, veggie burgers, chili dogs, ice cream. $. No cards. 777-8573.
The Palms
Emerald Beach Resort. Breakfast 7-10 a.m. Lunch 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Dinner 6-10:30 p.m. Sun. brunch 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Mediterranean. Cards: AX, V, MC, D, DC, CB. $$. 777-8800 ext. 5300.
Partners Bar and Grill
Sub Base. West Indian. 774-9383.
Pilot House
Crown Bay Marina. Dinner 7-10 p.m. Thur.-Sat. Pasta, seafood, steaks. $/$$. Reservations requested. Cards: V, MC, DC, CB. 776-1595.
Ruby's By The Sea
Crown Bay. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. American, West Indian. $. Cards: AX, MC, V. 774-4776.
Terrace Lounge
Carib Beach Resort. Breakfast 7-10:30 a.m. Dinner 6-9:45 p.m. American, Caribbean. $. Cards: AX, V, MC, D, DC, CB. 774-2525 ext. 5005.
Tickle's Dockside Pub
Crown Bay Marina. 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Southeastern. $. Cards: V, MC, DC, CB. 776-1595.
Victor's New Hideout
Sub Base. Lunch 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Dinner 5:30-10 p.m. Mon.-Sat. West Indian. $/$$. Cards: AX, V, MC. 776-9379.
Walker's by the Sea
Lindbergh Bay. Mon.-Sat. Lunch, dinner Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sun. breakfast, lunch, dinner 7 a.m.-10 p.m. West Indian, seafood. $$$. Cards: MC, V, AX. 777-5633.

NORTH SIDE
Lulu’s
Crown Mountain Road. Dinner Tues-Sat 6-9:30 p.m. Bar opens at 5:00 p.m. Italian/Mediterranean cuisine, Black Angus steaks, fresh seafood. Pizza available at 5 p.m. $$. Reservations requested. Cards: AX. 774-6800.
Magens Bay Cafe
Magens Bay Beach. Breakfast, lunch 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Sandwiches, pizza. $. No cards. 775-4669.
The New Bryan’s Bar & Restaurant
No.15 Hull Bay Rd. Open 7 days. Bar opens 3 p.m. Dinner 6-10 p.m. Sunday Brunch 10:30 a.m. -2:30 p.m. Fresh seafood daily, steaks, baby back ribs, shrimp, chicken, soups. $$. Cards: AX, V, MC, ATH. 777-1262.
Old Stone Farmhouse
Mahogany Run. Dinner Tue.-Sun. 6:30-9:30 p.m. American. $$$. Cards: V, MC, AX. 777-6277.
Tropicalia Restaurant
Magens Point Resort. Breakfast 7-10 a.m. Lunch 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Dinner 6-10 p.m. $$. Cards: V, MC, AX. 777-6000 ext. 613.
EAST END
Agave Terrace
Point Pleasant. Dinner 6-10 p.m. Seafood, international. $$/$$$. Reservations recommended. Cards: AX, V, MC. 775-4142.
Akasha Sweet Life Cafe
Smith Bay. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Daily. Natural and vegetarian dishes. $. No cards. 775-2650.
Baywinds on the Beachfront
Renaissance Grand Beach Resort. Breakfast 7-10:30 a.m. Dinner 6-10 p.m.; late night menu 10-11 p.m. American/Caribbean cuisine. Live nightly entertainment except Wed. 775-1510.
Bottoms Up
Independent Boat Yard. Mon.-Thurs. 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Fri. And Sat. 7 a.m.- 11p.m. Sun. 8 a.m.-11 p.m. Breakfast, sandwiches, fish & chips. $. No cards. 775-4817.
Blue Moon Cafe
Secret Harbor. Breakfast 8-11 a.m. Lunch 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Seafood, salads, sandwiches. Dinner 6- 10 p.m. American, seafood, steak. Reservations suggested. $$. Cards: MC, V, AX,. 779-2262.
China Fast Food
Tutu Park Mall. Lunch Mon.-Fri. 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Sat. 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. $. No cards. 775-6881.
The Corner House
Coki Point Road. Lunch 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Dinner 5-11 p.m. West Indian, American. $$. Cards: V, MC. 775-2086.
Desi's Smokehouse
Tutu Park Mall. Lunch, dinner Mon.-Wed. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Thu.-Sat. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sun. noon-5 p.m. West Indian. $. No cards, no reservations. 777-3224.
Domino's Pizza
Tutu Park Mall. Sun.-Thu. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. $. 775-3400.
Fungi’s on the Beach
Point Pleasant. 11:30 a.m.-10:00 p.m. daily. Full service menu after 5:30 p.m. Caribbean menu. $. Cards: AX, MC, V. 775-4142.
Hemingway's Bar & Grill
Compass Point Marina. Eclectic Caribbean food with classic French flair. Lunch & dinner. Closed Sundays. $. Cards: MC, V. 777-1609.
Iggie's on the Beach
Bolongo. Dinner 5-10 p.m. except Mon. and Wed. American. Barbecue platter 5-9 p.m. Sun. $. Cards: AX, V, MC. 775-1800.
Lagoon Saloon
LaVida Marina. Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Lunch and dinner. Sat.-Sun. 8 a.m.-9 p.m. Breakfast, lunch and dinner specials. $. No cards.
Lake's Chicken Fry
Smith Bay. 9 a.m.-2 a.m. Chicken, fries, seafood. $. No cards. 775-1977.
Lord Rumbottom's
Bolongo. Breakfast 7:30-10:30 a.m. Lunch 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Dinner 6:30-9:30 p.m. Mon.- Sat. Continental, Italian. West Indian night Wednesday. Nightly entertainment. Caribbean lobster special Friday. $$. Cards: AX, V, MC. 775-1800.
Mim's Seaside Bistro
Watergate. Dinner Mon.-Sat. 6 p.m.-10 p.m. Thu. all-you-can-eat shrimp. $$. Cards: AX, MC, V. 775-2081.
Palm Court
Elysian Beach Resort. Thurs.-Sun. Breakfast 7:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Dinner 6:30- 10 p.m. Fri. Caribbean Night. Buffet. Continental. Danish-style buffet brunch Sun. 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. $$. Cards: AX, V, MC, D, DC, CB. $$. 775-1000.
Polli's
Tillett Gardens. Lunch, dinner Mon.-Sat. 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Mexican. $. Cards: AX, V, MC. 775-4550.
Raffles
Compass Point. Dinner Tue.-Sun. 6:30-10:30 p.m. International, seafood. $$. Reservations requested. Cards: AX, V, MC. 775-6004.
Randy's Bistro
Al Cohen's Plaza,
Raphune Hill. Dinner Mon.-Sun. 5-10:30 p.m. Late-night menu Mon.-Fri. 10:30 p.m.-1 a.m. Lunch Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. European, American, seafood. $/$$. Cards: MC, V, AX. 777-3199 or 775-5001.
Romano's
Smith Bay. Dinner 6:30-10:30 p.m. Mon.-Sat. Italian, Continental. $$$. Reservations required. Cards: AX, V, MC. 775-0045.
Sea Breeze
Elysian Beach Resort. Lunch 11 a.m.-6 p.m. $. Cards: AX, V, MC, DC, D. 775-1000.
Sea Side Inn
72A Frydenhoj. Mon.-Sat. 7 p.m.-until. Seafood. $. No cards. 775-7313.
Seagrape
Sapphire Beach Resort. Mon.-Sat. Breakfast 7:30-10:30 a.m. Lunch 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Dinner 6-10 p.m. Continental, Caribbean, Italian. $$/$$$. Cards: AX, V, MC. 775-9750.
The Schnitzel House
Frydenhoj, below Trawlers in Paradise. German cuisine and veal specialities. Open Tues.-Sat. Happy hour 5-6 p.m. Dinner 6-9 p.m. $$. 776-9896 or 776-7198.
Smuggler's
Renaissance Grand Beach Hotel. Tue.-Sat. dinner 6 to 10 p.m. Brunch Sun. 10:30-2:30 p.m. Steak, seafood. $$/$$$ All cards. 775-1510.
Sushi by Sato
Saga Haven Marina. Thurs.-Sun. Lunch 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Dinner 5-10 p.m. Japanese. $$. Cards:
V, MC. 775-3352.
Toad and Tart English Pub
Smith Bay. Open Tues.-Sat. Dinner 5:30-10:30 p.m. Bar opens 3 p.m. Hearty British pub food, seafood, burgers, roasts and daily specials. $. Cards: AX, MC, V, D. 775-1153.

RED HOOK
The Cafe
Ritz-Carlton. Dinner 6-10 p.m daily. Caribbean inspired Mediterranean cuisine. Theme nights: Sun., Mon., Wed., and Fri. Reservations recommended. $$$. All major credit cards accepted. 775-3333 ext. 51.
Cafe Wahoo
Piccola Marina, Red Hook. Dinner 6-10 p.m. Seafood. $$. Cards: AX, M, V. 775-6350.
Caribbean Saloon
American Yacht Harbor. Open daily. Lunch 11 a.m-6 p.m. Dinner 6-10:30 p.m. Caribbean fried lobster, steak, pasta. Late night menu 10:30 p.m.-4 a.m. $/$$. Cards: V, MC, AX, D. 776-7060.
The Deli
American Yacht Harbor. Breakfast, lunch 6 a.m.-6 p.m. $. No cards. 775-2944.
The Dining Room
Ritz-Carlton. Dinner Tues.-Sun. 6:30-9:30 p.m. Elegant dining. French-Caribbean cuisine. Live piano music. Reservations requested. $$$. All major credit cards accepted. 775-3333 ext. 51.
Duffy's Love Shack
Red Hook Plaza. Lunch, dinner 11 a.m.-1 a.m. $. No cards. 779-2080.
East End Cafe
Red Hook. Open daily 6-10 p.m. Italian and American cuisine. $. Cards: MC, V. 715-1442.
The Frigate
Red Hook. Seafood, steak. Dinner 6-10:30 Mon.-Sun. $/$$. Cards: V, MC, AX. 775-6124.
Grateful Deli
Red Hook Plaza. Mon.-Fri. 7 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Sat. 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun. 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Salads, sandwiches, ice cream, gourmet coffees. $. Cards: AX, MC, V. . 775-5160.
Molly Malones
American Yacht Harbor. A dockside Irish pub. Seafood, Irish, steaks, sandwiches. 7 a.m.-11:00 p.m. daily. $. Cards: V, MC. 775-1270.
Wok and Roll
Red Hook. Lunch, dinner 11:00 a.m.-10 p.m. Mon.-Sat. Dinner 4:30 p.m.-10 p.m. Sunday. Chinese, sushi. $/$$. 775-6246.
Whale of A Tale
American Yacht Harbor. Dinner Thu.-Sun. 6-10 p.m. Pasta, seafood, steak. $/$$. Reservations requested. Cards: V, MC. 775-9425.
XO Wine Bar Red Hook Plaza. Dinner 5 p.m.-midnight. Soups, salads, pizza. $. Cards: MC, V, AX. 779-2069.

Aug. 5, 2001 – Six recent paintings by St. John artist Janet Cook-Rutnik are on exhibition at Alexander's Cafe in Frenchtown through Sept. 13.
"The Past Is Always Present," the title of one of the paintings, also is the theme for what the artist describes as an "intimate exhibition in one of St. Thomas's favorite restaurants known for fine dining."
In recent years, Cook-Rutnik, a Virgin Islands resident since 1969, has been showing her work mainly outside the Virgin Islands. She is preparing for a solo show that will open in October at the Rathbone Gallery of Russell Sage College in Albany, N.Y., and then travel to Washington, D.C., and Seaside, Fla. next year.
She had solo shows last year at the Savannah Gallery in Anguilla ("Island Dreams"); in 1999 at the Museo de las Americas ("Recuerdo") in San Juan and at the Savannah Gallery ("Then and Now") in Anguilla; and 1998 in the Fondo del Sol ("To Remember") in Washington, D.C; and at the Györy Fine Art Gallery ("Who Do Voodoo") in Miami.
Her paintings, pastels and collages currently can be seen at the National Gallery in Jamaica, Casa de las Americas in Havana, Palacio de Bellas Artes in Santo Domingo and the Musee D'Art in Haiti. Her work is in the permanent collections of the Museo de las Americas in San Juan, Museo de Arte Moderno in Santo Domingo, Georgetown University Print Collection in Washington, D.C., University Hospitals in Cleveland, Ohio, and Marriott Frenchman's Reef Beach Resort on St. Thomas.
"My work is about a personal and collective search for the truth through the meaning hidden in memory and myth," Cook-Rutnik says. "The underlying mystery and unspoken drama of life in the Caribbean greatly influences my work, as do the ancient stories of mythology that transcend the boundaries of time, as memory does, as dreams do."
She notes that a critic "once said I was like an archaeologist of the psyche, searching in the deep, dark terrain of memory for buried knowledge only glimpsed in passing moments of intangible sensations of dejá vu or the fleeting images fading from the memory of dreams." She is currently working on a series of paintings collectively titled "On the Other Side of Dreams."
In the last five years she has taken in international exhibitions in the Dominican Republic (2001, 1999, 1996); Havana, Cuba (2000); Paris (1999); Jamaica (1999); Cagnes-sur-Mer, France (1998); and Cuenca, Ecuador (1996). She has shown in group exhibitions this year on St. Thomas ("The Heart of Africa in the U.S.V.I."); last year at Galerias Prinardi ("Christmas Collective") in San Juan; in 1999 at the Alternative Museum ("Millennium Exhibition") in New York City; and in 1998 at the Williston Fine Art Gallery ("Caribbean Artists") in Northhampton, Mass.
Pieces available for purchase may be seen on St. John both at Frames of Mind and at the artist's Guavaberry Farms studio, or on her web site at www.cookrutnikART.vi.

June 29, 2001- Tickets for the Reichhold Center for the Arts 2001-02 season will go on sale Aug. 6.
The season opens on Oct. 13 with a concert by the contemporary jazz group Spyro Gyra. It will be followed by the third annual visit of the Puerto Rico Symphony Orchestra, a Birch Forum co-production, on Nov. 3; the "queen of salsa," Celia Cruz, on Jan. 26; Ballet Concierto de Puerto Rico, on Feb. 23; a reggae concert to be announced, in March; and the eighth annual STARfest local talent revue, on May 11/12 and 19/20.
The Reichhold offers two types of discounted subscription packages. The Foundation Series, for all six presentations, is $247 for covered seating and $160 in the open air, a savings of 10 percent off individual ticket prices. The "Create-Your-Own" Series allows patrons to choose any four or five performances and get 5 percent off the individual ticket prices.
In addition to discounted tickets, season subscribers will get invitations to meet-the-artist receptions. "This year, we are throwing two grand bashes, one for Spyro Gyra, who will be celebrating their 25th anniversary in music, and the other for Latin music queen Celia Cruz," Reichhold director David Edgecombe said. Only Reichhold subscribers and donors will be invited to these events, he said.
Individual show ticket prices are: Spyro Gyra — $55 covered/$35 open air; Puerto Rico Symphony — $60/$30; Celia Cruz — $65/$42; Ballet Concierto — $35/$25; Reggae Festival — $35/$28 uncovered; and STARfest — $25/$18.
Tickets also may be purchased for the two summer 2002 Caribbean Repertory Company play productions to be announced. All tickets for these performances are $15.
For details on tickets and information on becoming a Reichhold donor, call the Reichhold Center box office at 693-1559. Hours are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sept. 5, 2001 – Gov. Charles W. Turnbull has issued a proclamation designating September as Labor Awareness Month in the Virgin Islands. Noting that the economic competitiveness of the territory rests largely on the skills and abilities of the workforce, the proclamation focuses on significant contributions that workers have made to the territory’s development.
"Businesses and government increasingly rely on their workers to adapt to advancements in technology, to produce high quality goods and services, and to make the production improvements that ensure future competitive advantages," the governor said.
The proclamation encourages workers and youths to adopt lifelong learning to enhance employability. Collaborative efforts of workers, employers, educators and unions are required, Gov. Turnbull stated.
He urged residents to participate in activities scheduled in observance of the month. For information about those plans, call Rhona Martinez at the Labor Department St. Croix office, 773-1994, ext. 230.

Sept. 4, 2001 – A free seminar for not-for-profit, faith and other community organizations interested in obtaining federal tax-exempt status will be held Sept. 17 on St. Croix.
The seminar will be presented by the Community Development Block Grant office of the Planning and Natural Resources Department, the federal Housing and Urban Development Department, and the Internal Revenue Service.
Eligibility requirements set forth in sections 501 (c) (3) and (4) of the Internal Revenue Code, required forms, legal issues and certification will be covered. There also will be information for organizations interested in applying for funds from HUD and other federal agencies.
The session is set for 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Education Department Curriculum Center in Kingshill. Those wishing to take part are asked to advise Yvette Christopher, Community Development Block Grant senior planner, at 774-3320 by Sept. 10.

Sept. 4, 2001 – Beginning the evening of Sept. 17, the Jewish community around the world will celebrate a 10-day period from Rosh Hashanah through Yom Kippur known as the Ten Days of Repentance.
Rosh Hashanah, the first day of the Hebrew month of Tishri, marks the beginning of the Jewish new year. "But it has meaning beyond the start of the calendar year," Rabbi Jay Heyman of the Hebrew Congregation of St. Thomas said. "It is the beginning of a period of self-examination and introspection which continues through Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement."
The Torah — the Five Books of Moses — designates the first of Tishri as a day of "memorial, proclaimed with the blast of horns" (Leviticus 23:24, Numbers 29:1). For Jews, Heyman said, the sounding of the Shofar, the ram's horn, is symbolic in a multi-faceted way: "recalling past events, looking to the Messianic future, proclaiming divine sovereignty and much more. The sound of the Shofar is a call to a divine summons, to examine our hearts, and to plead our case before the Eternal."
Activities during the period are directed toward reconciliation with both God and other people, he said. On Rosh Hashanah, individuals take the first steps toward atonement. "But this initial recognition of sin with its accompanying remorse requires further steps to complete the process of repentance. Thus, the penitential process is continued for 10 days, culminating with Yom Kippur and its 24 hours of self-examination, confession and fasting."
For the Jewish community, Heyman said, the High Holy Days period "provides an opportunity to alter conduct, readjust values, and set things right in one's personal life." Honesty and confession of wrongdoing are required, he said, and the purpose throughout the period of the holy "Days of Awe" is to move the individual toward reconciliation, renewal and return.
For information about High Holy Days services, see the Hebrew Congregation of St. Thomas web site: www.onepaper.com/synagogue, or call the synagogue office at 774-4312.

Sept. 4, 2001 – Beginning the evening of Sept. 17, the Jewish community in the Virgin Islands and around the world will celebrate a 10-day period from Rosh Hashanah through Yom Kippur known as the Ten Days of Repentance.
Rosh Hashanah, the first day of the Hebrew month of Tishri, marks the beginning of the Jewish new year. "But it has meaning beyond the start of the calendar year," Rabbi Jay Heyman of the Hebrew Congregation of St. Thomas said. "It is the beginning of a period of self-examination and introspection which continues through Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement."
The Torah — the Five Books of Moses — designates the first of Tishri as a day of "memorial, proclaimed with the blast of horns" (Leviticus 23:24, Numbers 29:1). For Jews, Heyman said, the sounding of the Shofar, the ram's horn, is symbolic in a multi-faceted way: "recalling past events, looking to the Messianic future, proclaiming divine sovereignty and much more. The sound of the Shofar is a call to a divine summons, to examine our hearts, and to plead our case before the Eternal."
Activities during the period are directed toward reconciliation with both God and other people, he said. On Rosh Hashanah, individuals take the first steps toward atonement. "But this initial recognition of sin with its accompanying remorse requires further steps to complete the process of repentance. Thus, the penitential process is continued for 10 days, culminating with Yom Kippur and its 24 hours of self-examination, confession and fasting."
For the Jewish community, Heyman said, the High Holy Days period "provides an opportunity to alter conduct, readjust values, and set things right in one's personal life." Honesty and confession of wrongdoing are required, he said, and the purpose throughout the period of the holy "Days of Awe" is to move the individual toward reconciliation, renewal and return.
For information about High Holy Days services, see the Hebrew Congregation of St. Thomas web site: www.onepaper.com/synagogue, or call the synagogue office at 774-4312.

Sept. 4, 2001 – The beach at Brewers Bay will remain closed while Planning and Natural Resources Department officials await test results from water samples taken Tuesday to determine whether sewage discharged from a nearby treatment plant has contaminated water in the bay.
Preliminary test results on water collected from 10 sites in Brewers Bay should be available Wednesday, according to Hollis Griffin, director of DPNR's Environmental Protection Division. The beach will remain closed at least until the preliminary results are in, and possibly longer if the results show the water has been contaminated, he said.
Meantime, officials of both Planning and Natural Resources and the Public Works Department were working to come up with a plan to address the problem at the sewage treatment plant by Cyril E. King Airport that caused the sewage discharge.
DPNR issued an alert late Friday advising the public not to swim or fish at Brewers Bay because of possible water contamination. On Tuesday, officials said the discharge was due to damage to a partition to contain sewage sludge at the treatment plant. They said the partition was damaged when Tropical Storm Dean brought heavy winds and rain to St. Thomas on Aug. 22.
After partial treatment, sewage is contained in a lagoon, where heavier solids sink to the bottom. The cleaner water at the surface is carried through an outflow pipe to be discharged about 1,000 feet out at sea. When the partition was damaged, it may have allowed some of the heavier solids to be discharged as well, Griffin said.
Also Tuesday, Sen. Adlah "Foncie" Donastorg said it had been brought to his attention that "there were no operators present" at the treatment plant at the time of the discharge "and that several other plants are often not properly staffed." He made the comments in a letter to Sen. Donald "Ducks" Cole in which he further stated, "It is also my understanding that operators were brought from Puerto Rico to assist" with the sewage discharge crisis.
Cole chairs the Legislature's Planning and Environmental Protection Committee. In the letter, which Donastorg released to the news media, Donastorg repeated an earlier call for Cole to convene an emergency meeting of the panel "to investigate" the sewage discharge at the lagoon plant.
"My worst fears were realized when I received the news that the screen broke away and that raw sewage had spilled into Lindbergh and Brewers Bays," Donastorg wrote. He added, "we need to have the experts along with administration officials come before the committee and answer many pertinent questions."
Donastorg, a member of the committee, was its chair in the 23rd Legislature. The committee "has clear jurisdiction and oversight authority in this matter," he told Cole.
Planning and Natural Resource officials were working Tuesday to complete an "order of corrective action" outlining what Public Works personnel need to do to fix the sewage treatment plant problem.
After an inspection Tuesday, Griffin said he hoped the necessary repairs could be made within a week. The plant will remain in operation, he said, and the possible contamination could continue. Officials said Tuesday they did not know how much of the sludge had been discharged.
The plant treats all sewage from the downtown Charlotte Amalie area east to Havensight, about 2.5 million gallons of wastewater on an average day.