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Carol M. Huggins Dies

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Carol M. Huggins Dies

It is with deep sadness and love that we celebrate the life of Carol M. Huggins. Carol unexpectedly left her earthly home on Friday, Oct. 3, 2025. 

Carol M. Huggins

She was preceded in death by her parents: Joseph Alfred Huggins and Norine Liburd-Huggins.

She is survived by her Sons. Carl K. Christopher, Bernard Valmond Jr.; Grandchildren, Ne’zah C. Barnes, Ethan C. Christopher, Elyjah B. Christopher, ShaMyah M. Ponce, Zyiem A. Estick, Zyra M. Estick, Timothy R. Wesslehoft, Duke & Duchess (fur grand babies); Sisters, Ruby Huggins Rodriquez, Carmen Huggins Burns, Elizabeth Huggins Carobert, Diane “Cherry” Huggins; Brother, Benjamin “Shamba” Huggins; Nieces, Amalie C. Lawrence, Sharika Huggins, Jaydesha “JD” Carobert, Natalia M. Burns; Nephew, James O. Carobert, Antonio “Tony” Huggins; Great Nieces, Jayzala Huggins, JazMina Huggins, Azareya Albro, Zoey Albro, Sevyn Albro, Aiya Bush, Chloe Bush; Great Nephews, Zhaire Huggins, Haisahn Williams; Aunts, Hildred Liburd- Lawrence, Leonora Liburd-Jean Jacques; Uncle, Frederick Liburd; Daughters-In-Law, Britney K. Christopher, Shamarra M. Ponce; Cousin and Other Relatives, Sonia Liburd (aunt in law), Floretta Huggins, Albert Huggins, Shauna Huggins, The Huggins Family, Liburd Family, Powell Family, Christopher Family; Special Friends, Lenora Williams,  Unifer Durand, Manuel Camacho, Lawrence Jacobs Sr., Kenneth Williams, Eulica Pemberton, Agnes Garnett, Cynthia Gumbs, The St. Croix Central High School Class of 1980, as well as other relatives and friends too numerous to mention. 

A viewing will take place at 9 a.m. followed by a celebration of life Mass at 10 a.m., Friday, Nov. 7, at St. Ann’s Catholic Church, interment at the Kingshill Cemetery.

The family of Carol M. Huggins invites all attendees to wear her favorite color blue (varying shades).

Professional services are entrusted to James Memorial Funeral Home, Inc.

Albert William H. Elliott Dies at 86

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Albert William H. Elliott Dies at 86

Albert William H. Elliott a.k.a. “Bill” of Estate Constitution Hill transitioned into eternal life on October 5, 2025. He was 86 years old. 

Albert William H. Elliott

He is survived by his Wife, Lucrecia Monte Elliott; Daughters, Steffanie Edwards, Joanna Elliott, Marisa Trinidad; Sons, Stephen Bute, Garnet Bonnett, Ronald Elliott, Dr. Robert Centeno; Grandchildren, Marvyn Yarde, Shikila Marston, Leanne Bute, Stephanie Bute, Ronald Elliott Jr., Shanai Scott, Sole Griffin, Justice Reign Griffin, Shaddai Griffin, Raheem Elliott; Great Grandchildren, Ronald I.L. Elliott, Ronellia I.L. Elliott, Rochelle R.O. Elliott, Rahnysha Elliott, Rahnyra Elliott; Sisters, Sandra Elliott, Debra Elliott, Collette Elliott, Lydia Elliott, Carol Elliott; Brothers, Graham Elliott, Tony Elliott, John Elliott, Martin Elliott, Adam Elliott, Terry Elliott, Anthony Elliott; Sons-In-Law, Theodore White, Jamale R. Griffin; Brothers-In-Law, Victorino Nieves, Angel Nieves, Carlos Nieves, Ambrose Mathurin; Sisters-In-Law, Lesie Nieves, Mildred Nieves, Teresa Nieves, Marie Nieves, Arlene Whyte-Elliott, Carlota Mathurin; Special Friends, Marvin and Yolette Pickering, Kenneth “Kenny” Gittens, Josephine Hector, Gertrude Gumbs, Dalin Aloyo, Norma Blackwood, May Dubois, Dr. & Mrs. Marc Jerome, Lucie & Ricky Rodriguez, Johnie John, Henry Larcher, Luis & Anita Davila, Francois Dominique, Alvin Canaii & Family, Elton Lewis, Francis Laurencin, Cheryl Francis, Joanne Roebuck; Numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends too numerous to mention. 

Funeral service will be held on Monday, Nov. 3 at St. John’s Episcopal Church. Viewing will begin at 9 a.m. with service at 10 a.m. Interment will follow at Kingshill Cemetery. 

Professional services are entrusted to James Memorial Funeral Home, Inc. 

Lady Buccaneers Split Season-Opening Road Games

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Lady Buccaneers Split Season-Opening Road Games

The University of the Virgin Islands women’s basketball team opened the season with a split of its first two games on the road. The Lady Buccaneers faced St. Thomas University in an official game and competed in an exhibition match against the St. Thomas University Development Team, both held at the Fernandez Family Center in Miami Gardens, Florida, on Oct. 24 and 25, respectively.

UVI forward Kashay Bass (Submitted photo)

Game 1

In the first matchup, UVI competed against the St. Thomas University varsity women’s basketball team. The Lady Buccaneers fell behind early and struggled to close the gap. By halftime, they trailed 37-21.

In the second half, the UVI continued to face offensive challenges, while the Lady Bobcats found their rhythm, preventing the Lady Buccaneers from narrowing the deficit. The game concluded with a score of 83-40 in favor of the Lady Bobcats.

Junior forward Keshara Romain emerged as a standout player for UVI, coming off the bench to contribute 15 points and nine rebounds. Defensively, the 5-foot-11 forward recorded three steals and two blocks.

“First-game jitters get the best of you sometimes,” said head coach Stephanie Cooper. “It took us some time to find our rhythm offensively and adjust defensively. However, we had several standout moments, particularly with our freshman point guard, Ashlynn Lemos, who demonstrated her capability in her role. Keshara Romain was another highlight, leading us offensively. I am confident she will have an outstanding season, and I am happy she chose to return to play for her home university. We didn’t get the result we wanted but these first games important to show us what we need to work on to win.”

Game 2

In the second game of the weekend, UVI found its offensive stride, quickly establishing a lead against the St. Thomas University Development Team. The Lady Buccaneers entered halftime with a 20-point advantage, leading 38-18.

UVI maintained its dominance in the second half, extending the lead to 28 points and securing a 72-44 victory.

Romain got off to a hot start, scoring eight of UVI’s first 10 points in the game. The St. Croix native would finish with a game-high 18 points, one of three Lady Buccaneers in double figures in the win.

Junior Khaelii Roberstson-Mack finished with 17 points, with 13 of her points coming in the first half.

Senior Kashay Bass added 16 points to the points to the team’s total.

“The second game showcased our potential when we execute our game plan effectively. We established our dominance early on both offense and defense and maintained it throughout the game. This approach aligns with my coaching philosophy, which emphasizes the importance of playing hard on both ends of the court. I am proud of how my team performed in the second game.”

The Lady Buccaneers will play one more game in Miami, facing Atlantis University on Oct. 27 at 8:30 p.m. at the Miami Christian School gymnasium. They will then return home to host Ozark Christian College in their home opener at the Elridge Blake Sports and Fitness Center.

Buccaneers Lose Lead Late in Exhibition vs. RBA All-Stars

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Buccaneers Lose Lead Late in Exhibition vs. RBA All-Stars

The University of the Virgin Islands men’s basketball team lost its lead late in the game, falling 91-87 in an exhibition matchup against the Real Basketball Association All-Stars on Friday evening at the Elridge Blake Sports and Fitness Center.

UVI guard Chad Molloy. (Submitted photo)

The two teams were evenly matched as they battled early in the first half, however UVI would eventually gain control. The Buccaneers went on a scoring run to close the half, entering the break with a 44-34 lead over their opponents.

The game appeared to be in favor of the Buccaneers until late in the second half, when the RBA All-Stars mounted a comeback to seize the lead. Both teams exchanged baskets in the final moments, but the RBA AllStars ultimately emerged victorious as the Buccaneers fell short at the game’s conclusion.

“It was a very good game and great competition,” said head coach Kevin Sheppard. “We went toe-to-toe with a team that included former and current professional players, two of whom were my former teammates on the Virgin Islands national team, Craig Williams and Cuthbert Victor. It was a true test of where we stand right now, and I am okay with the result. We controlled the entire game, but down the stretch, their professional experience overwhelmed us. It’s just an exhibition; the game doesn’t count, however it was a great way to measure and see what we have as a team.”

Buccaneer captain Chad Molloy shone brightly, leading his team on the court during the intense battle. The junior guard scored a game-high 25 points, shooting 7-of-13 from the field and 2-of-4 from behind the arc.

Newcomer Brandon Rasmussen made a strong debut, establishing himself as a key player for the Buccaneers this season. The graduate forward recorded a double-double with 15 points and 11 rebounds, along with two blocks as he defended the rim.

Senior Khari Person and junior Evik Amy were the two other Buccaneers in double figures as they recorded 11 and 14 points, respectively. 

Sophomore guard Ahijaa Sweeney facilitated the offense for the Buccaneers, dishing out five assists. 

Zion Jones led the way for the RBA All-Stars with 23 points. 

The Buccaneers will be back in action on Friday, October 31st, for their Homecoming game. The men’s team will face the Virgin Islands Elite, with the game scheduled to begin at 8:30 p.m., following the Lady Buccaneers’ home opener against the Women’s Virgin Islands Elite.

Senate Calendar, Oct. 27-Nov. 7

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Senate Calendar, Oct. 27-Nov. 7

MONDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2025 

Committee on Government Operations, Veterans Affairs and Consumer Protection

9:00 A.M.

Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall

The Committee on Government Operations, Veterans Affairs, and Consumer Protection has scheduled a meeting for Monday, October 27, 2025, at 9:00 AM in the Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall, St. Thomas, Virgin Islands to provide testimony on the following bills:

BLOCK I 9:00 A.M. – 11:00 A.M.

Bill No. 36-0134 An act repealing and reenacting title 18 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 1, section 2 relating to government employees’ eligibility for elected offices, to allow government employees to run for political office while actively employed, unless specifically prohibited by federal or other laws 

Invited Testifiers:

Justice Rhys S. Hodge, Chief Justice, Supreme Court of the Virgin Islands

Ms. Cindy L. Richardson, Director, Division of Personnel

Attorney Joss N. Springette, Chief Negotiator, Office of Collective Bargaining

Ms. Carol Burke, State Chairwoman, Democratic Party of the Virgin Islands

Ms. Ophelia Jackson, Retired Government Educator 

BLOCK II 11:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M.

Bill No. 36-0148 An act amending title 3 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 16, section 274 by mandating that the Virgin Islands Taxicab Commission implement an electronic payment system. 

Invited Testifiers:

Ms. Melissa J. Smith, Acting Executive Director, Virgin Islands Taxicab Commission

Mrs. Jennifer Matarangas-King, Commissioner Nominee, Virgin Islands Department of Tourism

Honorable H. Nathalie Hodge, Commissioner, Department of Licensing & Consumer Affairs

Mr. Lawrence Ramdhansingh, President, Virgin Islands Taxi Association

Mr. John Cadasse, President, St. Croix Taxi Association (Airport)

Mr. John Woods, President, St. Thomas/St. John Chamber of Commerce

Mr. Akeel St. Jean, Esq., Chairperson, St. Croix Chamber of Commerce

LUNCH BREAK 1:00 P.M. – 1:30 P.M.

BLOCK III 1:30 P.M. – 3:30 P.M.

Bill No. 36-0075 A Resolution honoring and commending Austin A. Venzen posthumously for his unwavering commitment to music education and the arts, through his work in the classrooms, conducting private music lessons, on the concert stages, and by bringing Virgin Islanders together in choirs, bands, and community events, to foster camaraderie, collaboration, and cultural enrichment 

Invited Testifiers:

Ms. Gloria Quinlan, Former Music Professor & Choir Director, UVI

Ms. Monet I. Davis, Former Student, Music Teacher, Ivanna Eudora Kean High School

Mr. Kevre Hendricks, Former Student, 73rd Army Band Commander, Director of Bands St. Croix Educational Complex, Music Producer & Owner of Maestro Productions

Dr. LeRoy Trotman, Musicologist, Former Music Coordinator St. Thomas/St. John, Retired Professor of Music

Mr. Odgen Noland, Music Educator, Lockhart K-8 

Ms. Judith Mitchell, Personal Friend

Mr. Levi Farrell, Former Student, Retired Band Instructor, Ivanna Eudora Kean High School

Mr. Dion Parson, Educator, Composer, and Grammy-Award-Winning Drummer

BLOCK IV 3:30 P.M. – 5:00 P.M.

Bill No. 36-0044 A Resolution honoring and commending seven-year old twin brothers Kruz and Stefon Wilson for their heroic efforts and courage displayed when saving a drowning man at Magen’s Bay Beach and for their exemplary conduct as young members of the community 

Invited Testifiers:

Mr. Keith Isaac and Ms. Marlene Isaac, Grandparents

Mr. Kemel Wilson, Father

Mrs. Andrea Penn, Aunt 

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2025 

Committee on Health, Hospitals, and Human Services

9:00 A.M.

Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall

Please be advised that the Committee on Health, Hospitals & Human Services will be conducting a meeting on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at 9:00 a.m., in the Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall, on St. Thomas to discuss the following. 

BLOCK I 9:00 A.M. – 11:50 A.M.

Bill No. 36-0086 An act amending title 3 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 25, section 590b, the Caregivers Leave Act. 

Bill No. 36-0079 An Act amending title 19 Virgin Islands Code, part IV, chapter 37, to add a new subchapter 

mandating territorial hospitals to provide paternity testing services upon request, 

Invited Testifiers:

Honorable Justa Encarnacion, Commissioner, Department of Health

Mr. Gordon Rhea, Esq., Attorney General, Department of Justice 

Ms. Cindy L. Richardson, Director, Division of Personnel 

Mr. Troy Schuster, State Director, AARP of the Virgin Islands 

Mrs. Tracy Stewart Sanders, President, Continuum Care Home Health, LLC 

BLOCK II 2:30 P.M. – 4:30 P.M.

The Committee will receive formal updates from the Medical, Dental, and Psychology Boards of the Virgin Islands. 

Each Board will provide a summary of current operations, challenges, and strategic objectives, including matters related to licensing, compliance, professional development, and recommendations for legislative or administrative support to strengthen healthcare regulation across the territory.

Invited Testifiers:

Mr. Trevor Connor, DDS, Chairman, Virgin Islands Dental Board

Ms. Ramona Moss, Ph. D, Chairperson, Board of USVI Psychology Examiners

Mr. Frank Odlum, MD, Chairman, Virgin Islands Medical Examiners Board

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2025 

Committee of the Whole

10:00 A.M.

Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall

Time: 10:00 A.M.

Call to Order: Honorable Milton E. Potter, Chairman, Committee of the Whole

Roll Call: Mrs. Shenika Dowe-Serrano, Chief Journal Clerk

CONSIDERATION OF FLOOR AGENDA:

The 36th Legislature will convene in a Committee of the Whole to receive testimony on the following:

BLOCK I – ZONING

Bill No. 36-0128 An act amending Official Zoning Map No. STZ-4 to rezone Parcel No. 68A Estate Lindberg Bay, 

No. 4A, Southside Quarter, St. Thomas from P (Public) to R-3 (Residential-Medium Density)

Invited Testifiers:

Honorable Jean-Pierre Oriol, Commissioner, VI Department of Planning & Natural Resources

Mr. Carlton Dowe, Executive Director, VI Port Authority

Mr. Torian Priestly, Chief Development Officer, The Benoit Group

BLOCK II – WAPA

The committee will receive an update from the Virgin Islands Water & Power Authority, focusing on the series of outages that continue to plague the St. Thomas/St. John district. Additional topics will include the short-term and long-term plans to remedy the situation and improve reliability.

Invited Testifiers:

Mr. Maurice Muia, Board Chairman, VI Water and Power Authority

Mr. Karl Knight, Chief Executive Officer, VI Water and Power Authority

Ms. Sandra Setorie, Executive Director, VI Public Services Commission

BLOCK III – Impact of Federal Shutdown

The Committee will discuss the impact of the federal government’s current shutdown on the delivery of essential services and programs to the people of the US Virgin Islands

Invited Testifiers:

Mr. Julio Rhymer, Director, Office of Management and Budget

Honorable Kevin McCurdy, Commissioner, VI Department of Finance

Honorable Averil George, Commissioner, VI Department of Human Services

BLOCK IV – Virgin Islands Sixth Constitutional Convention

Bill Request No. 25-0857/36-562 To appropriate funding for the Virgin Islands Sixth Constitutional 

Convention

Invited Testifier:

Mr. Usie Richards, Chairman, Virgin Islands 6th Constitutional Convention

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2025 

Regular Session

10:00 A.M.

Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall

Call to Order: Honorable Milton E. Potter, Senate President, 36th Legislature

Anthems: National Anthem and Virgin Islands March

Invocation: Reverend Charles L. Brown, Jr., Chaplain 

Roll Call: Honorable Avery L. Lewis, Legislative Secretary

Committee Reports: 

Special Orders/Overrides: 

Special Orders: 

Overrides: 

CONSIDERATION OF NOMINATIONS

Ms. Joan Foy 

Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority Board

Mr. Mark M. Wiechnik, Esq.

Virgin Islands Historic Preservation Commission

CONSIDERATION OF ZONING

Bill No. 36-0128 An act amending Official Zoning Map No. STZ-4 to rezone Parcel No. 68A Estate Lindberg Bay, No. 4A, Southside Quarter, St. Thomas from P (Public) to R-3 (Residential-Medium Density)

CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION

Bill No. 36-0107 A resolution honoring and commending Dr. Alfred Lee Anduze for his outstanding achievements and significant contributions to the fields of medicine, science, public health, and community empowerment.

CONSIDERATION OF BILLS

Bill No. 36-0058 An Act honoring and commending Dennis “Pumpa” Lennox Leroy Liburd, Jr. for his many contributions to the Virgin Islands culture and music industry as a Soca artist by awarding him the Official key to the Territory and naming the main entrance of 6-Y Peters Rest Road, Christiansted, St. Croix in his honor.

Bill No. 36-0061 An Act amending title 3 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 27, section 706 and chapter 28A, section 755 allowing retirees who are receiving an annuity from the Government Employees Retirement System who are subsequently employed by the University of the Virgin Islands, to continue to receive their GERS annuity while receiving their salary from the University if the retiree enrolls in a different retirement plan. 

Bill No. 36-0083 An act establishing a 90-day amnesty period for the waiver of penalties for payment of outstanding 

property taxes, income taxes, and gross receipt taxes for all tax years to assist taxpayers and businesses recovering from the aftermath of Hurricanes Irma and Maria and Tropical Storm Ernesto.

Bill No. 36-0099 An act amending title 34 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 15 expanding the Elder and Dependent Adult Abuse Prevention Act. 

Bill No. 36-0119 An act amending Act No. 8651 by reprogramming the appropriated funds to the Department of Sports, Parks, and Recreation to fund the completion of the Randall “Doc” James Racetrack on St. Croix. 

Bill No. 36-0121 An act to rename the Peter Carl Limpricht Park the TSK Park in honor of the Ten Sleepless Knights quelbe band and making an appropriation to effectuate that change. 

Bill No. 36-0123 An act amending title 20 Virgin Islands Code, part II, chapter 43, subchapter I, section 493 making it unlawful for a person who has 0.04 percent or more, by weight, of alcohol in his blood to operate a commercial motor vehicle, and making it unlawful for a person under the age of 21 years who has any detectable amount of alcohol in his blood, to operate a motor vehicle. 

Bill No. 36-0136 An act amending title 23 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 17, subchapter II by adding new sections 1331 through 1336 mandating lethal weapon training for security guards and investigators.

Bill No. 36-0140 An act amending title 3 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 22, section 403, clarifying the term of service for members of the Historic Preservation Commission.

Bill No. 36-0141 An act amending title 3 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 22, section 415 to add a term of service for appointees to the Board of Physical Therapy

Bill No. 36-0142 An act amending title 27 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 17, section 45, by changing the maximum number of members of the Board for the Licensing of Barbering and Cosmetology

 

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2025 

Committee on Culture, Youth, Aging, Sports and Parks

10:00 A.M.

Frits E. Lawaetz Legislative Conference Room

The Committee on Culture, Youth, Aging, Sports, and Parks will convene a legislative hearing to examine the pressing and multifaceted challenges affecting the youth of the Virgin Islands. This hearing will explore the intersections of public health, education, economic opportunity, and community support as they relate to youth development, safety, and success—particularly in the face of rising violence, trauma, and systemic inequity. Through testimony from government agencies, nonprofit leaders, educators, and young people themselves, the Committee seeks to identify legislative and policy solutions that address root causes, close opportunity gaps, and foster a stronger, more equitable future for the territory’s next generation.

BLOCK I 10:00 A.M. – 12:30 P.M. 

Healing Our Youth: Mental Health, Intervention, Government & Community Services & Support 

During this Block, the Committee will receive testimony and examine the rise of youth violence in the Virgin Islands as a public health emergency that demands a comprehensive, trauma-informed response. This segment seeks to uncover the root causes of trauma and aggression among young people, while evaluating the availability, accessibility, and cultural relevance of behavioral health services across the territory. The Committee will explore how schools, law enforcement, and grassroots organizations are working—both independently and collaboratively—to interrupt cycles of harm and deliver mental health support, crisis intervention, and violence prevention services. Special attention will be given to prevention models, early intervention strategies, and community-based programs that provide safe spaces, foster emotional resilience, and build trust between youth and institutions. The overarching goal is to assess the territory’s current response capacity and identify actionable, sustainable strategies to promote healing, safety, and longterm well-being for all young people.

Invited Testifiers:

Honorable Justa Encarnacion, Commissioner, Virgin Islands Department of Health

Mr. Antonio Emanuel, Director, Office of Gun Violence Prevention

Honorable Dionne Wells-Hedrington, EdD, Commissioner, Virgin Islands Department of Education

Honorable Mario Brooks, Commissioner, Virgin Islands Police Department

Honorable Averil George, Commissioner, Department of Human Services

Honorable Gordon Rhea, Esq., Attorney General Virgin Islands Department of Justice – Juvenile Division

Mr. Moleto A. Smith Jr., Director, Law Enforcement Planning Commission (LEPC)

Youth-Focused Nonprofit Organizations:

My Brother’s Workshop

Youth Against Gun Violence 

St. Croix Foundation

The Village Partners in Recovery

Public Witness Panel: 

Testimony from individuals with lived experience

LUNCH 12:30 P.M. – 1:00 P.M. 

BLOCK II 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. 

Expanding Youth Opportunities: Community Access, Workforce Development, Education & Equity 

This Block will continue the Committee’s in-depth review and shift the focus to the long-term structural conditions shaping youth success in the Virgin Islands. This segment will assess educational access, vocational training, and workforce readiness disparities. The Committee will examine data on school dropout rates, employment trends, and the underutilization of existing youth development programs. Invited agencies and stakeholders will offer insights into challenges and gaps within afterschool services, technical career education, and youth employment pathways. 

Testifiers will be asked to recommend legislative and policy solutions to strengthen school-to-career pipelines, improve equity in public programs, and expand youth opportunity through culturally rooted, community-based initiatives such as recreation, sports, and the arts as essential tools for youth empowerment and engagement, along with recommendations for the support of programs and services concerning the youth of the Virgin Islands.

Invited Testifiers:

Dr. Haldane Davies, Director, Virgin Islands Bureau of Economic Research

Honorable Dionne Wells-Hedrington, EdD, Commissioner, Virgin Islands Department of Education

Ms. Genevieve Whitaker, Executive Director, Career & Technical Education Board

Honorable Gary Molloy, Commissioner, Department of Labor

Honorable Averil George, Commissioner, Department of Human Services

Honorable Vincent Roberts, Commissioner, VI Department of Sports, Parks & Recreation

Mr. Julio Rhymer, Director, Office of Management & Budget

Community Stakeholders Panel:

Youth Organization Leaders

Youth Empowerment and Recreation Program Providers

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 04, 2025 

Committee on Budget, Appropriations, and Finance

10:00 A.M.

Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall

The Committee on Budget, Appropriations and Finance will meet on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, 10:00 A.M. in the Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall on St. Thomas to receive testimony on the following bills:

BLOCK I

Bill No. 36-0092 An act approving the lease agreement between the Government of the Virgin Islands and St. John Taxi Services Corporation, for Parcel No. D-2 Estate Cruz Bay Town, Cruz Bay Quarter, St. John, Virgin Islands

Invited Testifiers: 

Honorable Lisa M. Alejandro, Commissioner, VI Department of Property and Procurement

Mr. Sean L. Claxton, President, St. John Taxi Services Corporation

Ms. Carmen Wesselhoft, Taxi Driver

Bill No. 36-0045 An Act appropriating the sum of $400,000 from the Tourism Advertising Revolving Fund to the Virgin Islands Taxicab Commission for the implementation of technological upgrades

Invited Testifiers: 

Honorable Kevin G. McCurdy, Commissioner, VI Department of Finance

Ms. Melissa Smith, Executive Director, Virgin Islands Taxicab Commission

Mr. Rupert O. Ross, Director, VI Bureau of Information Technology

Mr. Julio A. Rhymer, Sr., Director, Office of Management and Budget

Mr. Lawrence Ramdhansingh, President, VI Taxi Association (STT)

Mr. Dhiony Lalanne, President, St. Thomas Taxi Association

Mr. Charles Sealey, President, St. Croix Taxicab Association

Mr. Sean L. Claxton, President, St. John Taxi Association

BLOCK II

Bill Request No. 25-0820 An act appropriating excess debt service reserve funds for certain capital projects in the  territory 

Invited Testifiers: 

Honorable Derek A. Gabriel, Commissioner, VI Department of Public Works

Mr. Julio A. Rhymer, Sr., Director, Office of Management and Budget

Mr. Carlton Dowe, Executive Director, VI Port Authority

Mr. Nathan Simmonds, Director, Finance & Administration, VI Public Finance Authority

Bill No. 36-0122 An act amending title 3 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 27, section 711 and chapter 28a, section 760, by requiring the Government Employees Retirement System to discontinue making disability retirement annuity payments to a member who resumes any employment

Invited Testifier: 

Mr. Angel E. Dawson, Jr., CEO/Administrator, Government Employees Retirement System

Boschulte Middle School Closed Monday, Broken Water Line 

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Boschulte Middle School Closed Monday, Broken Water Line 

The Virgin Islands Department of Education informs parents, guardians, students, faculty, and staff of the Bertha C. Boschulte Middle School that the school campus will be closed on Monday, Oct. 27, due to a ruptured water line that requires excavation and extensive repairs.

Bertha C. Boschulte Middle School (Photo by Ananta Pancham)

As a result of the ruptured water line, the school will not have access to water. Due to the nature of the assessment and repairs required, an estimated time for completion cannot be provided at this time. Ensuring the full restoration of water service and the completion of all necessary repairs is the Department’s highest priority.

To facilitate the work of maintenance and utility crews, the BCB campus will be closed to all students, faculty, and staff. Additionally, all after-school programs, clubs, sporting activities, and other scheduled events are suspended until further notice. There will be no access to the school campus until the repair work has been completed and verified as safe for reopening.

In the interim:

  • Faculty are required to attend a virtual meeting via Microsoft Teams at 8:30 a.m. on Monday, Oct. 27, to receive updates on the situation and guidance regarding the continuity of instruction and other preparations during the repair period.
  • Support staff, including kitchen workers and monitors, will be contacted by their supervisors regarding temporary reassignments while the school campus remains closed.
  • Parents and guardians are advised that students should not report to the school campus on Monday, Oct. 27. Further information will be shared regarding instructional plans and operational updates for the duration of the repair period.

The department thanks the BCB community of students, faculty, staff, and parents for their flexibility, cooperation, and understanding as work crews address this unexpected water line break. The safety and well-being of our students and staff remain our utmost priority.

Consider the Source With Adisha Penn

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Consider the Source With Adisha Penn

WAPA’s approval of new contract extensions to keep generator testing and power system upgrades moving as outages continue, attorneys confirm a settlement in the land-lease dispute tied to the proposed Summer’s End Marina on St. John, and in Florida, former Senator-at-Large Steven Payne Sr. was found guilty of felony sexual battery involving a minor and now faces up to 25 years in prison. Host Adisha Penn recaps last week’s biggest headlines, while guest Donna Frett-Gregory shares more about her foundation’s literacy initiative in local classrooms. There’s always something new on Consider the Source!

 

Diwali Ball Shines Light on Community, Culture and Giving

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Diwali Ball Shines Light on Community, Culture and Giving
The evening’s youngest performers brought the crowd to their feet — dancing with confidence, spirit, and plenty of sparkle. (Source photo by Ananta Pancham)

Each year, the Diwali Ball highlights the India Association’s commitment to service — a celebration rooted not only in culture, but in tangible acts of care. This year, that purpose remained front and center Saturday night as the association presented $10,000 to the University of the Virgin Islands, $10,000 to the Salvation Army, along with $5,000 each to the Family Resource Center and the Yellow Cedar Group Home.

For the Family Resource Center, the support comes at a meaningful time. Executive Director Anya Stuart emphasized that the organization’s work extends beyond supporting women and children; it also serves men and families throughout the territory who are navigating the trauma of domestic violence. She shared that leading the center has been a profoundly personal and full-circle experience — having once sought support herself, she now stands on the other side, working to ensure that every person who needs help can access it without fear or shame. The audience responded with quiet recognition — a reminder that Diwali’s light is not metaphorical, but lived.

India Association President Pash Daswani and Vice President Navin Sakhrani present a donation to Yellow Cedar Group Home, supporting critical care and resources for youth in the community. (Source photo by Ananta Pancham)

India Association President Pash Daswani also spoke to the ongoing needs of Yellow Cedar Group Home, which is currently fundraising for a transport van to better support its residents. Run by Lutheran Social Services and located in Estate Anna’s Retreat, the home offers care for adults with developmental disabilities, including those with cerebral palsy.

That sentiment echoed the tone of the evening, guided warmly by co-host Sunita Totwani, who invited the room to remember the feeling of Diwali — not only the celebration, but the anticipation. She recalled how, when her children were young, preparations for the ball would begin months ahead: searching for just the right outfit, swapping Bollywood tracks, learning choreography in kitchens and living rooms. “That’s the magic of the Diwali Ball,” she said. “It’s something you look forward to, something you grow into, something that stays with you.”

Community members perform the Lakshmi Aarti, with Isabella Punjabi portraying Goddess Lakshmi during the ceremonial blessing. (Source photo by Ananta Pancham)

Her words settled into the room like the memory itself, as this year’s theme — “Bollywood Through the Decades” — threaded tradition with nostalgia. The evening opened with a Lakshmi Aarti, honoring the goddess of prosperity and renewal. Antilles School senior Isabella Punjabi stood as Lakshmi, serene and luminous, while members of the community performed the aarti around her — a gesture of blessing, grounding the night in reverence and gratitude.

From there, the Mark C. Marin Center, where the event was held, moved through time.

All Saints Cathedral School junior Naitik Jhanwar introduced each decade with the easy familiarity of someone raised on the soundtracks and stories of Indian cinema. He described Bollywood as “that friend who never grows old — changing styles, breaking hearts, reinventing itself again and again.” His introductions weren’t just commentary — they were small bridges to shared memory. With each era, the audience nodded, laughed, and recognized themselves.

Young dancers lit up the floor with a high-energy disco routine — glitter, rhythm, and pure fun. (Source photo by Ananta Pancham)

The performances — colorful, energetic, and full of joy — reflected the multigenerational nature of the community. Elders who helped build the association decades ago watched children and teenagers dance to songs they once played on cassette tapes. Young adults who grew up attending the ball returned to lead choreography, direct music, and lend their voices.

Daswani later spoke to how the Indian community has become woven into the broader story of the Virgin Islands over nearly five decades — building businesses, serving on boards such as Cancer Support VI and the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands, raising families, and contributing to the life of the territory. “This is home,” he said simply. “We are part of the Virgin Islands — and the Virgin Islands is part of us.”

Surrounded by family, Ram Mirpuri receives the Mulo Alwani Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his contributions to the association. (Source photo by Ananta Pancham)

The evening also honored Ram Mirpuri with the Mulo Alwani Lifetime Achievement Award, named for one of the association’s most beloved leaders. Mirpuri recalled the earliest days, when he served as secretary and the association boasted a little over a dozen members. Seeing the ballroom full, he said, showed how far that intention has carried. What may have begun with a handful of families has grown into a community that is both rooted and expansive — one that celebrates tradition while embracing its identity as Virgin Islanders.

Several members of the Association were also honored for the organization of the event and dedication behind the scenes, including Kanta Vasandmalani and Simran Sakhrani, along with Diwali Ball chairs Giresh Mirpuri, Rohit Khiani, and Darshan Nagrani.

As the night came to a close, what lingered was not only the music or the glittering saris or the warmth of familiar faces, but a sense of continuity — of something still being built, still being passed on.

As SNAP Delays Continue, St. Thomas Social Offers Free Meals to Help Families

Source Staff
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As SNAP Delays Continue, St. Thomas Social Offers Free Meals to Help Families

As the federal government shutdown stretches into its fourth week, thousands of Virgin Islands households are still without their November Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits — prompting both government action and direct support from the local business community.

Beginning Monday, St. Thomas Social, located in Yacht Haven Grande, will provide free to-go meals for St. Thomas-based SNAP recipients, offering up to three prepared meals per person per day at no cost. Recipients must present their SNAP card at pickup, and orders can be placed by calling 340-715-5930. All meals will be provided to-go and must be consumed off-site.

The initiative comes as roughly 24,000 Virgin Islanders — including families, seniors, and residents with disabilities — remain without access to their monthly food assistance due to the ongoing federal funding lapse. The Virgin Islands government will begin issuing paper checks covering half of November benefits, with Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. saying the administration is moving quickly to ensure households can access food while federal systems remain offline. Bryan has asked the Legislature to take up emergency measures to extend support if needed and said he is prepared to declare a state of emergency should the delay continue.

Meanwhile, St. Thomas Social partner and executive chef Sunil Sharma said the restaurant felt compelled to act now. “As an immigrant, when I came to this country at 16, my parents only had $1,000 to their name – but they always made sure there was food on the table. No family should go without food. As a chef, it’s not just about business, it’s about feeding people, and it is an honor to help those impacted by this situation. I hope more restaurants are able to follow suit,” he shared Sunday.

He added that the effort also aligns with the spirit of Diwali, the festival of lights, an East-Indian holiday rooted in reflection, gratitude, and giving. Sharma said that the restaurant will cover the cost of the program entirely out-of-pocket, and said he hopes others in the local hospitality industry will join in.

Across the territory, residents have also stepped in to help, organizing informal donation drives and sharing information about where neighbors can find free or low-cost meals. Grocery stores on St. Thomas and St. Croix have placed donation bins near checkout lines, while community members have circulated lists of church kitchens, school meal pickups, and nonprofit food programs on social media.

Human Services officials say the first round of relief checks is being processed and will begin reaching households by mail. Residents are encouraged to confirm that their mailing address on file is current to avoid delays.

Lady Dashing Eagles Dominate BVI

Mat Probasco
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Lady Dashing Eagles Dominate BVI

The U.S. Virgin Islands women’s national team, known proudly as the Lady Dashing Eagles, delivered two commanding performances this weekend in friendly matches against the British Virgin Islands, winning by emphatic scores of 8–0 and 6–0.

(Submitted photo)

From the opening whistle of the first match, it was clear the Lady Dashing Eagles came to make a statement. Their possession-heavy style, and relentless attacking pressure kept the visitors pinned deep in their own half. The USVI’s offensive rhythm was in full flight, wave after wave of attacks showcasing the team’s aggressiveness, growing chemistry and technical confidence.

The second match followed a similar script. With sharp execution in the final third, the Lady Dashing Eagles found the back of the net almost at will. Meanwhile, the USVI goalkeepers enjoyed a relatively quiet pair of outings, as the defense stood firm and organized, rarely allowing BVI a clear look at goal.

When asked about the teams performance and chemistry as they head into their first world cup qualifier on November 27th, 2025, team captain Naya Vialva stated, “Im incredibly proud of the group and how far we’ve come in such a short time. Every session and every game this week showed our growth, commitment and ability to prove ourselves. I’m proud of how prepared and connected we are, making the most of the limited time that we have. We know what’s ahead with World Cup qualifiers, and we’re ready to give everything for our country”

The Lady Dashing Eagles’ performance was more than just two dominant wins, it was a celebration of empowerment, unity, and progress. As the team continues to grow, one thing is clear: women’s football in the Virgin Islands is on the rise, and the community is rallying right behind it.

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