Home Blog Page 119

Fashion Wonderland Fundraiser Prepares Local Models for International Spotlight

Source staff
-
0
Fashion Wonderland Fundraiser Prepares Local Models for International Spotlight
Alayna Aaron and Emelia Brooks hold signs while posing for the camera at a recent fashion show. (Photo Courtesy Sooks Media)

The Fashion Wonderland Fashion and Food Festival Fundraiser, presented by the Faces of Gemini Modeling Institute, returns to St. Thomas March 14 to celebrate local fashion and culinary talent and raise funds to send Virgin Islands models to the International Models and Talent Association New York Summer 2026 competition.

At the helm is Gemini Barry, owner, CEO, and lead model coach of Faces of Gemini. For Barry, the event is the culmination of months of planning, relationship-building, and a deep belief in what local models can achieve when given the opportunity to compete on a global platform.

The International Models and Talent Association is the world’s largest model and talent workshop, held twice annually. Faces of Gemini attends the summer session, a deliberate choice driven by cost. “This experience is important for models of the VI because it allows them to have a real-life experience in the life of working as a model. It puts them on a large runway in front of agents, mother agents, models, and talent from all over the world. Networking and practice can get you in rooms you never thought of,” Barry explained.

Barry has already brought approximately 10 models and talent to past IMTA conferences. Every one of them, she says, returned with a transformed understanding of the industry. Still, the financial barrier remains steep. “I wish I could take more, but the cost is so high for our local models and talent,” Barry said.

Allicen Hunt poses in formal dress at the end of a runway in a recent fashion show held in Palm Passage. (Photo Courtesy Sooks Media)

This year’s fundraiser offers four entry levels: General Admission ($50), Sampler ($75), VIP ($100), and Children ($10, ages 2-17). General admission grants entry and the option to purchase food and drinks separately. The Sampler tier includes one tasting plate from a culinary vendor and one standard rum or nonalcoholic drink. The VIP guests receive three small samplers and three drinks.

Behind the production is a network of sponsors who have helped Barry expand her vision. “Sponsors like CC1, Cost-U-Less, and Virgin Islands Glam Magazine have allowed me to really step into more creative ways to bring this event to life. This year we have also welcomed sponsorship from the Department of Tourism. We have received support ranging from monetary donations to products needed to fulfill tasks. We are tremendously grateful to them,” Barry said.

J’liyah Febres walks the runway in a floor-length, multicolored maxi dress. (Photo Courtesy Sooks Media)

When the doors close on March 14, Barry hopes attendees leave with more than a full evening’s entertainment. “I want people to take pride in the future and direction of the fashion industry locally. I want individuals to see all ethnicities on the runway exhibiting skill, grace, and poise,” Barry said.

Aspiring models interested in walking with Faces of Gemini can contact Barry directly for model call information. She is reachable via social media platforms or WhatsApp at 340-998-4030. Tickets for Fashion Wonderland are available at Sole to Sole and through participating models.

For Diaspora Families Seeking Connection, HeirMark Offers a Path to Preserve Legacy Stories

Source staff
-
0
For Diaspora Families Seeking Connection, HeirMark Offers a Path to Preserve Legacy Stories
Storytelling
Muria Nisbett’s HeirMark framework invites families to preserve their stories and transform memories into lasting heritage. The initiative officially launches Feb. 28 at The Muse on St. Thomas. (Shutterstock image)

On Saturday, Feb. 28, at 3 p.m., HeirMark officially launches at The Muse on St. Thomas.

Founded by Muria Nisbett, a therapist, author, and community leader, HeirMark is a structured framework designed to help families intentionally capture their histories, process generational experiences, and transform memories into lasting heritage. At the core of HeirMark’s approach are three guiding texts, each developed to address a different dimension of family storytelling and emotional continuity.

The first installment, “When Healing Becomes Heritage, guides families through reflective practices that reframe inherited pain into something that can be acknowledged, processed, and ultimately transformed. The second installation, “The Language of Healing,” offers tools for cross- generational communication, emphasizing honesty, compassion, and the courage to address difficult family narratives. The final installation, “When Conversations Become Keepsakes,” functions as a structured documentation experience, allowing families to record values, traditions, life lessons, and personal histories in a permanent, intentionally designed format.

Together, the collection works to move beyond passive reading and inspire active participation, prompting families to engage with one another, record their findings, and create physical artifacts of their shared identity.

The launch comes at a time when families across the Caribbean and its diaspora are increasingly seeking intentional methods for heritage preservation. HeirMark positions itself as a direct response to that need, blending therapeutic insight with cultural reverence.

In its inaugural year, HeirMark has set a significant impact goal to sponsor access to legacy preservation tools for 500 families. This sponsorship initiative reflects the movement’s broader commitment to making healing and heritage work available across economic circumstances.

Attendees of the Feb. 28 event will hear from Julie Mango, an award-winning comedian, social media personality, and mental health advocate, who is scheduled to make a special guest appearance. Partnership and sponsorship opportunities are available.

For more information, visit Theheirmarkframework.com or contact Nisbett directly at Info@theheirmarkframework.com.

Scheduled Maintenance to Affect WAPA Payment Services This Weekend

Mat Probasco
-
0

The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority advises customers that its online payment services platform will be temporarily unavailable from 4 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 13, through 8 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 16, due to scheduled system maintenance.

During this maintenance window, customers will be unable to make electronic payments through the WAPA website, phone or kiosks.

WAPA appreciates the public’s understanding and continued support as we work to improve and strengthen our systems regularly.

Charles William Vanterpool Dies at 75

Mat Probasco
-
0
Charles William Vanterpool Dies at 75

Charles William Vanterpool, lovingly known as “Shall” to family and friends, passed away Jan. 10, 2026.

Charles Vanterpool

He was born on July 21, 1950, to the late Mary Hodge and John Vanterpool on the tranquil island of St. Kitts, British West Indies. Charles was the fifth of eight children.

Charles was preceded in death by four siblings: Thomas Hodge, Jane Hodge-Rogers, Joseph Hodge, and Celia Vanterpool-Gumbs. 

He leaves to behind to  cherish his memory:

Brothers: Albert and Joey Vanterpool.

Sister: Lydia Vanterpool-Martin.

Children: Clarion Dargan (Denise), Charles Vanterpool “Junior”, Charlene Vanterpool, James Vanterpool “Terry”, Dennis Vanterpool, Denicia Vanterpool “Chicky”, Patrick Vanterpool.

Grandchildren: Wyatt and Aryanna Dargan, Tahj “TJ” and CJ Vanterpool, Jevon Vanterpool, LeTroy and Chanecqua Monsanto, Francis Sampson, Shamar, Jalen, Jamesha, Janeasia, and J’Mya Vanterpool, Dennis Jr and Destiny Vanterpool, De’Nasia and Ge’Nique Industrious, and LeQuan Hines. 

Son-in-law – Henry Dargan

Daughter-in-law – Carolyn Vanterpool

And many nieces, nephews, great-grandchildren, friends and relatives too numerous to mention.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend first viewing on Wednesday Feb. 18, at Celestial Chapel of Dan Hurley Home for Funerals from 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. Funeral service will be held on Thursday, Feb. 19, at Celestial Chapel of Dan Hurley Home for Funerals. Viewing begins at 9 a.m. with service to follow at 10 a.m. For online condolences or to share a special memory visit www.hurleydavisfuneralhome.com

USVI Soccer Attends Nicaragua CONCACAF Congress

Mat Probasco
-
0
USVI Soccer Attends Nicaragua CONCACAF Congress

The U.S. Virgin Islands Soccer Federation proudly participated in the recent CONCACAF Congress held in Managua, Nicaragua, joining fellow Member Associations from across the region for the Confederation’s annual gathering.

U.S. Virgin Islands Soccer Federation officials in Nicaragua. (Submitted photo)

The Congress was presided over by Victor Montagliani, President of CONCACAF and Vice President of FIFA, alongside Philippe Moggio, CONCACAF General Secretary, and members of the CONCACAF Council. Delegates representing all 41 Member Associations were in attendance to review the Confederation’s progress and strategic priorities.

During the Congress, Member Associations reviewed and approved CONCACAF’s 2026 budget and conducted official statutory business. Discussions and decisions reflected the Confederation’s continued commitment to strengthening football development, governance, competitions, and infrastructure across the region.

A key highlight of the Congress was the election of CONCACAF Council members. Lyndon Cooper of St. Lucia was elected Vice President (Caribbean) after running unopposed, reinforcing regional leadership and representation within the Confederation’s governance structure.

USVISF delegates engaged in productive dialogue with regional counterparts, reaffirming the Federation’s commitment to advancing football in the U.S. Virgin Islands and contributing to the collective growth of the game throughout CONCACAF.

The USVI Soccer Federation remains dedicated to working collaboratively with CONCACAF and fellow Member Associations to elevate standards, expand opportunities for players and coaches, and strengthen the sport at all levels.

St. John Emergency Road Closure Advisory

Mat Probasco
-
0

The Virgin Islands Department of Public Works advises the public of an emergency road closure on Jacob’s Ladder along South Shore Road on St. John.

Today, Friday, Feb. 13, DPW crews are currently onsite assisting with an overturned crane that is obstructing the roadway and preventing motorists from safely traversing the area. Motorists are advised to use Contant Hill as an alternate route during this closure.

The Department of Public Works appreciates the community’s patience and cooperation as crews work to safely clear the roadway.

Taxpayer Assistance Program Open

Mat Probasco
-
0
Taxpayer Assistance Program Open

Joel Lee, CPA, Director of the Virgin Islands Bureau of Internal Revenue announces the reinstatement of the taxpayer assistance program.

Virgin Islands Bureau of Internal Revenue

The Bureau’s audit staff will help taxpayers with the filing of their 2025 income tax returns. This year, the program will be done in conjunction with the University of the Virgin Islands accounting department. This is a free service offered to taxpayers who are filing simple tax returns with the Bureau. 

The Volunteer Taxpayer Assistance Program will start on all three islands on Saturday, Feb. 21 and will run until April 11. Assistance will be provided on a first come first serve basis. The due date to file tax returns is April 15.

On St. Thomas, the program will be at the Bureau’s office at 6115 Estate Smith Bay, in Red Hook, across the street from the Red Hook dock from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. On St. Croix, the program will be held at the Bureau’s office at 4008 Estate Diamond from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. There will be no taxpayer assistance on March 14.

On St. John, the program will be held at the Bureau’s office at Enighed Pond on Wednesdays, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Taxpayers should have available a valid ID, as well as all W-2VIs, 1099Rs (Retirement Income), other Form 1099s (Interest and Other Income), and Form SSA (Social Security Income) readily available when they arrive at the office. Please also walk with birth certificates and social security cards for dependents being claimed on the tax return. There will be no preparation for Form 1040NR or any returns with Schedule C.

Please refer questions about the Volunteer Taxpayer Assistance Program to Perpetua Cranston on St. Croix at 773-1040 and to Clifford Charleswell on St. Thomas and St. John at 715-1040. 

Director Lee reminds the taxpaying public that it is against the law for any Bureau of Internal Revenue employee to charge fees for preparation of a tax return. Any taxpayer who can provide proof of payment to a Bureau of Internal Revenue employee for the preparation of tax returns is asked to call Director Lee at (340) 773-1040 to report this violation.

EDA Quiet Amid Reported Cyberattack

Source staff
-
0
EDA Quiet Amid Reported Cyberattack
The V.I. Economic Development Authority will issue a statement Friday after reports of a cyberattack. (Shutterstock image)

Officials with the V.I. Economic Development Authority have yet to address a reported cyberattack on the semi-autonomous agency. EDA Board Chair Kevin Rodriguez told the Source that the authority will issue a statement Friday “when they have more information.”

Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. confirmed the hack in an interview with the Virgin Islands Consortium published Thursday but did not respond to questions from the Source. Reached by phone, Rodriguez said the information in that article — which reported that hackers locked down the authority’s systems and demanded hundreds of thousands of dollars in ransom — “is not totally accurate” before stating that a spokesperson for the authority would reach out shortly. The Source did not receive a response to multiple messages left with the authority’s marketing director, Celina Morris, on Wednesday and Thursday.

Joseph Philbert, a network systems administrator with the V.I. Bureau of Information Technology, said the territory’s semi-autonomous agencies are usually outside of the bureau’s purview.

“Unless they ask for our assistance or direct involvement in their network, we cannot inject ourselves,” he said. Whether that makes semi-autonomous agencies more or less prone to cyberattacks depends on each agency’s infrastructure. “Typically, when these sorts of things happen, it’s a case of either internal infrastructure vulnerability or end-user error, which are the most common, but not sole ways threats can gain access.”

Cyber- and ransomware attacks on infrastructure, financial and health care institutions have become increasingly common. Billing operations at the Juan F. Luis Hospital were upended by a cyberattack last April, which Chief Executive Darlene Baptiste said forced the hospital to rely on paper billing, leading to cash flow issues. That incident came one month after a cyberattack took the V.I. Lottery offline. The Lottery suffered a similar breach in early 2024, the same year Schneider Hospital was hit with a ransomware attack. Other local targets in recent years include the V.I. Port Authority in 2021 and the V.I. Water and Power Authority in 2019.

Philbert said BIT is ready and willing to assist when a breach does occur.

“What would improve the GVI’s cybersecurity posture and work toward a unified approach would be for all agencies to join under our security protocols [and] standards to mitigate these potential risks and incidents,” he said. “As the saying goes, ‘an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure.’”

Bryan Proposes Beeston Hill Zoning Amendment

Source staff
-
0
Bryan Proposes Beeston Hill Zoning Amendment
Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. sent the Legislature a bill that would rezone a controversial 15.9 acres in Beeston Hill. (Photo courtesy Government House)

Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. sent proposed legislation to the 36th Legislature Wednesday that would allow for housing development on a frequently fought-over parcel of Beeston Hill, St. Croix.

Owners of the 15.9-acre virgin green space have long sought the zoning change. In 2022, Atta and Jihad Misbeh asked the Senate for permission to build 24 condo units, a restaurant, and a shopping center on land zoned for low-density housing only.

Citing physical issues like traffic congestion and stormwater drainage, as well as vehement objection from people living nearby, the Department of Planning and Natural Resources recommended against the proposal. The 34th Legislature approved it anyway, rezoning the property to B-3.

The governor vetoed the bill in January 2023, saying it smacked of “special interests.”

Attah Misbeh tried again in 2025, asking the DPNR and the Senate to approve a plan to build a 24-unit residential development that would help alleviate the territory’s housing shortage. Although the plan fit within several residential-zone requirements, Misbeh asked for a rezoning to B-2 again. His representatives claimed it would make securing financing easier.

People from surrounding neighborhoods called it a ruse.

The Division of Comprehensive and Coastal Zone Planning recommended against it. The DPNR experts said community land use decisions shouldn’t take into consideration a landowner’s financing needs.

Bryan’s proposed plan would rezone the area to B-2 but disallow any activity beyond housing, according to a Government House press release.

“The bill limits development to the proposed construction of a 24-unit clustered residential development on 3 to 4 acres. The concept includes a playground, green space, and an outdoor meeting space. No other development or construction may be initiated or approved on the property without express consent from the Legislature,” the written statement said. “The prohibition on development without legislative consent would run with the land in perpetuity, regardless of ownership.”

Bryan said he considered concerns raised during prior zoning discussions involving the area but insisted his proposal reflected the territory’s “urgent housing realities.”

“This is a measured approach that puts housing first and protects the community’s interests,” Bryan said.

It was not clear if or when the 36th Legislature might consider the measure.

New Hemp Law Takes Effect as OCR Approves Key Cannabis Policies

Source staff
-
0
New Hemp Law Takes Effect as OCR Approves Key Cannabis Policies
A cannabis bud (Image from the Wikimedia Commons)
The Virgin Islands Cannabis Board is moving forward with new regulations governing intoxicating hemp products and cannabis sales in the territory. (Image from the Wikimedia Commons)

A new law signed by Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. on Jan. 23 is reshaping how intoxicating hemp products are regulated in the territory, placing oversight squarely under the Virgin Islands Office of Cannabis Regulation.

During a recent Cannabis Board Advisory meeting on Thursday via Zoom, officials discussed implementation of Bill No. 36-0105, which regulates intoxicating hemp and artificially derived cannabinoids such as delta-8 and delta-10. Executive Director Joanne Moorehead said the law gives OCR 90 days from the date of signing to promulgate regulations and establish a licensing process for retailers.

“OCR now has 90 days from Jan. 23 to promulgate regulations and inform those interested in obtaining an intoxicating hemp retailer license what that process will look like,” Moorehead said.

In the meantime, she emphasized that the law prohibits the sale, possession, or manufacture of products containing specified artificially derived cannabinoids until regulations are in place. “As of January 23, it is prohibited to sell or manufacture those products,” she said, adding that businesses previously selling such items must secure them in private storage until rules are finalized.

Moorehead encouraged retailers and interested parties to review the act and clarified that industrial hemp remains under the jurisdiction of the Agriculture Department and is separate from intoxicating hemp regulation, now assigned to OCR.

Later in the meeting, a quorum was established, and following discussion of the new law, the board voted to approve several policy measures as the territory prepares for regulated cannabis operations.

Among them was a requirement that all cannabis products sold in dispensaries carry a Metrc Retail ID QR code. The standardized code will allow consumers to scan packaging and access testing results, harvest data, and batch information pulled directly from the Metrc tracking system.

“What this does is ensure consumers are getting accurate, real-time information directly from Metrc,” Moorehead said. “It eliminates the issue of outdated or broken links and provides transparency about the product they are purchasing.”

Board members expressed support for the requirement, noting it aligns the territory with emerging national standards and strengthens consumer protection. The motion passed unanimously.

The board also approved a revised fee structure for temporary cannabis use permits at public events. Under the new policy, a single-event permit will cost $250, while a multi-event permit allowing up to 12 events within a 12-month period will cost $1,500. Officials said the change replaces a previous $1,500 flat fee that was considered cost-prohibitive for one-time events.

The permits apply to specific dates, times, and locations and are not intended to replace adult-use lounge licenses. Cannabis sales are not permitted at these events, and promoters are responsible for ensuring compliance, including restricting access to individuals over age 21.

In addition, the board adopted standardized guidance for measuring the 250-foot buffer between cannabis activity areas and sensitive use properties such as schools, houses of worship, and other areas where children congregate. Measurements will be taken in a straight line from the closest point of cannabis activity to the closest point of the sensitive use property line. Waivers of the 250-foot requirement may only be granted within designated historic towns, including Christiansted, Frederiksted, Charlotte Amalie, and Cruz Bay.

In her OCR report, Moorehead provided updates on licensing progress across the territory. Fourteen commercial cultivation licenses have been conditionally approved, and OCR has completed status meetings with all approved cultivators. She said at least one or two operators on St. Thomas and St. Croix are expected to begin cultivation within four to six weeks.

Eight micro-cultivation licenses have also been conditionally approved, with those operators projected to begin growing within approximately 10 to 12 weeks.

Ten dispensaries have been conditionally approved across the territory — five on St. Thomas, three on St. John, and two on St. Croix. Moorehead said dispensaries are completing required build-outs and documentation needed for certificates to operate. “We have to have products for dispensaries to sell,” she said, noting that dispensary timelines depend on cultivation readiness.

Nine manufacturing license applications are currently under review, with decisions expected by the end of March. A cannabis testing laboratory has been selected through a procurement process, though OCR has not yet publicly announced the lab pending final notification to respondents.

Research and development license applications remain open, and transporter certifications and third-party vendor applications are expected to be posted soon. Responsible vendor training notifications will be issued once the required interagency paperwork is finalized.

Present at the Cannabis Board meeting were Chair Dr. Catherine Kean, Dr. Gary Jett, Chris Jones, Bernisha Liburd, and Justa Encarnacion.

The board’s next meeting is scheduled for March 12 at 2 p.m.

1...118119120...13,067Page 119 of 13,067

VI JOB OPPORTUNITIES

Jobs - Click Here