The NHC is monitoring Invest 98L near the Windward Islands, with a low chance of development within 48 hours and a high chance over the next seven days. (Photo courtesy of NHC and NWS)
The National Hurricane Center is monitoring Invest 98L south of the U.S. Virgin Islands. While its path is uncertain, forecasters say conditions in the Caribbean may support development later this week, and a tropical depression is expected to form in the coming days.
National Hurricane Center: Invest 98L
As of Sunday afternoon, the NHC had assigned Invest 98L a low chance of development in the next 48 hours and a high chance of development in the next seven days. The tropical wave is expected to potentially strengthen into a tropical depression after it moves across the Windward Islands and into the Caribbean Sea.
Infrared satellite imagery obtained at 3:30 p.m. AST on Sunday shows Invest 98L, circled in yellow, moving across the Windward Islands and into the Caribbean and south of the USVI and Puerto Rico. (Photo courtesy NOAA)
An “invest” is an area under investigation by the NHC for possible development. If this system ultimately intensifies into a tropical storm with maximum sustained winds of at least 39 mph, it would be named “Melissa,” becoming the thirteenth named cyclone of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season.
“Showers and thunderstorms have become slightly better organized since yesterday in association with a tropical wave located just west of the Windward Islands over the eastern Caribbean Sea,” according to an update on Sunday evening from the NHC. “However, surface observations indicate the disturbance still lacks a closed circulation. The system is moving quickly westward at 20 to 25 mph, which will likely limit its development over the next day or so. Thereafter, environmental conditions are forecast to become more favorable for development as the wave slows down over the central Caribbean Sea, and a tropical depression is likely to form during the middle to latter portion of this week.
“Regardless of development, heavy rainfall and gusty winds are expected to continue for portions of the Windward and Leeward Islands through Monday morning,” the NHC said.
Where Will Invest 98L Travel?
Once the disturbance moves farther into the Caribbean Sea, the forecast becomes more uncertain. While the core of the wave is expected to pass south of the USVI and Puerto Rico in the coming days, atmospheric conditions could still steer the system — or its associated moisture — northward toward the local islands later this week.
“The long-term period continues to highlight an increasingly unsettled and wet weather pattern across Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, associated with a deep surge of tropical moisture linked to Invest 98L, a tropical wave currently being monitored by the NHC,” according to an update on Sunday from the National Weather Service in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Meteorologists with FoxWeather also highlighted the uncertainty of Invest 98L’s track and development in the coming days.
“One set of forecast predictions calls for the system to strengthen into Tropical Storm or even Hurricane Melissa and quickly move to the north or northeast toward the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico and/or the nearby islands,” FoxWeather said in an article published on Sunday. “Another set of predictions keeps the system weaker and calls for it to flounder around in the Caribbean for days – maybe well into next week or beyond,” the article stated.
“As far ahead as we can reasonably forecast — about 10 days — there is no sign of a threat to the mainland U.S. mainland. However, residents of Puerto Rico and the surrounding islands should plan to stay informed this week until we see what happens midweek. If the system quickly develops, its move north could occur almost immediately,” the FoxWeather article noted.
“A strong dip in the jet stream is forecast to be over the East Coast of the U.S. on Wednesday and Thursday. If the system strengthens, the jet stream dip will have a chance to scoop up the likely tropical storm and pull it north. If development is slow, however, the scoop will pass by, and the system, whatever form it’s in, will likely loll around in the Caribbean for several days at least,” according to FoxWeather.
The NWS in San Juan echoed that outlook, noting that “Forecast confidence remains low, as the eventual track, intensity, and proximity of Invest 98L to the forecast area will dictate the magnitude and timing of local impacts. A more organized, slower-moving, or closer system could substantially increase rainfall totals and wind hazards, while a weaker, faster-moving, or more distant disturbance would limit these effects.”
While there is no immediate cyclone threat to the U.S. Virgin Islands or Puerto Rico, residents and visitors are urged to remain prepared and monitor official updates closely. At the very least, an increase in precipitation should be anticipated.
Local Weather Threats
Meanwhile, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico will continue to endure choppy seas due to a powerful long-period northerly swell currently affecting the region. Due to the expected hazardous conditions, several marine alerts are in effect for areas of both territories, including a High Rip Current Risk, a High Surf Advisory, a Coastal Flood Advisory, and a Small Craft Advisory.
The NWS in San Juan, Puerto Rico, has warned that hazardous marine conditions will continue due to a powerful northerly swell, and several marine alerts are in effect. (Photo courtesy NWS)
“The north-facing beaches in Puerto Rico and the Atlantic coastline can expect dangerous breaking waves, which may create life-threatening rip currents and cause minor to moderate coastal flooding in vulnerable areas,” the NWS said. “The northern U.S. Virgin Islands can expect dangerous breaking waves and life-threatening rip currents, with life-threatening rip currents developing along St Croix’s north and east-facing beaches by Monday.
“Beachgoers and visitors are urged to exercise extreme caution, heed local advisories, and avoid swimming in high-risk areas, as life-threatening rip currents are expected to persist through early this week before gradually improving,” the NWS warned.
Finally, the NWS in San Juan reminded individuals on Sunday about weather-related threats that will continue to affect the USVI and Puerto Rico over the coming days, including the chance of rainfall and thunderstorms and warm temperatures, with the potential for heat alerts.
Stay Informed
It is important to remember that the forecast, including the tropical outlook, can change very quickly. The Atlantic hurricane season officially ends on Nov. 30, and USVI residents and visitors are encouraged to continue to remain prepared. Weather information is available from the NWS, the NHC, and NOAA.
Calendar for the 36th Legislature of the Virgin Islands
October 20, 2025 – October 31, 2025
Senate Building on St. Thomas
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2025
Committee on Education and Workforce Development
9:00 A.M.
Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall
The Committee on Education and Workforce Development will meet on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, 9:00 A.M. in the Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall on St. Thomas to receive considerations of proposed legislations.
Bill No. 36-0067 An Act amending title 17 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 5 by adding a section 41j requiring thePledge of Allegiance and the Virgin Islands Motto to be recited at the beginning of each school day in public schools, but additionally provides that students may opt out of the recitation
Invited Testifiers:
Kyza A. Callwood, PhD., Chairperson, Virgin Islands Board of Education
Dionne Wells-Hedrington, Ed.D., Commissioner, Virgin Islands Department of Education
Merlene Jones, Ed.D., Principal, Lockhart K-8 School, Virgin Islands Department of Education
Bill No. 36-0069 An Act amending title 17 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 9, subchapter 1, section 82, subsection (a) by changing the age a child begins kindergarten from five years of age to four years of age
Invited Testifiers:
Kyza A. Callwood, PhD., Chairperson, Virgin Islands Board of Education
Honorable Dionne Wells-Hedrington, Ed.D., Commissioner, Virgin Islands Department of Education
Merlene Jones, Ed.D., Principal, Lockhart K-8 School, Virgin Islands Department of Education
Honorable Averil George, Commissioner, Virgin Islands Department of Human Services
Honorable Justa E. Encarnacion, Commissioner, Virgin Islands Department of Health
Bill No. 36-0080 An Act amending title 17 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 5 mandating a daily morning
exercise routine for students in all public schools in the Virgin Islands
Invited Testifiers:
Kyza A. Callwood, PhD., Chairperson, Virgin Islands Board of Education
Honorable Dionne Wells-Hedrington, Ed.D., Commissioner, Virgin Islands Department of Education
Merlene Jones, Ed.D., Principal, Lockhart K-8 School, Virgin Islands Department of Education
Honorable Justa E. Encarnacion, Commissioner, Virgin Islands Department of Health
Brian Young, MD, FAAP, Pediatrician, Partners 4 Kids
Honorable Vincent Roberts, Commissioner, Virgin Islands Department of Sports, Parks, and Recreation
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2025
Committee on Rules and Judiciary
10:00 A.M.
Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall
Please be advised that the 36th Legislature of the Virgin Islands’ Committee on Rules and Judiciary has schedule ahearing for Thursday, October 23, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in the Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall on St. Thomas. The purpose of the hearing is to receive testimonies and consider the following legislative measures:
BLOCK I 10:00 A.M. – 11:30 A.M.
Ms. Joan P. Foy, Governor’s Nominee, Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority Board
Mr. Mark M. Wiechnik, Esq., Governor’s Nominee, Virgin Islands Historic Preservation Commission
BLOCK II 11:30 A.M. – 1:30 P.M.
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.
Invited Testifiers:
Honorable Jean-Pierre L. Oriol, Commissioner, Virgin Islands Department of Planning and Natural Resources
Mr. Sean Krigger, Director, Virgin Islands State Historic Preservation Office, VI DPNR
LUNCH 1:30 P.M. – 2:00 P.M.
BLOCK III 2:00 P.M. – 3:30 P.M.
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.
Invited Testifier:
Honorable H. Nathalie Hodge, Commissioner, Virgin Islands Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs
BLOCK IV
BILLS 3:30 P.M. – 4:30 P.M.
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. 36-0119 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.
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.
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 unwaveringcommitment 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
10:00 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 10:00 a.m., in the Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall, on St. Thomas to discuss the following.
BLOCK I 10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.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 12:40 P.M. – 3:00 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
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
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2025
Regular Session
10:00 A.M.
Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall
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
In profound sorrow we announce the passing of Beryl Smith, 99, of St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, who passed away Thursday, Oct. 2, 2025.
Beryl Smith
Preceded in death by her parents, Zapherah Freeman Hodge and Emmaunel Hodge; her husband, William A. Smith, Sr.; her son, William Smith, Jr.; and her granddaughter, Irene Learperl.
She is survived by
Daughters, Beverly Smith and Andrea Smith
Sons, Berris Hodge, Leonard Learperl Jr., Alnando Learperl, and John Smith
Daughters in law, Maloria Hodge and Leona Learperl
Stepdaughter, Elsa Smith White
Sister, Adora Hodge Foy
Brothers, Edgar Hodge, Sr. and Basil Hodge
Sisters in law, Zulah Hodge, Evelyn Hodge, Carmelia Hodge, Joyce Hodge, Ella Smith
Check out our weekly weather forecast with Jesse Daley, covering Sunday, Oct. 19, through Saturday, Oct. 25. Our YouTube playlist is updated every week, AND check out Jesse’s daily weather updates here.
On Saturday, police were investigating a St. Croix bar shooting that left a man dead shortly before midnight Friday, and arrested a man accused of attacking a motorist with a hammer.
Virgin Islands Police Department officers responded to a shooting at the Bienvenidos Bar in Estate Profit at 11:53 p.m. Friday. They found a man lying face down in the establishment with no vital signs. The deceased was later identified by a family member as 49-year-old Hoedelair Germaine. His death marks the 10th homicide of 2025 on St. Croix, and the 23rd for the territory, according to the Source Homicide List.*
In an unrelated incident, earlier Friday, police arrested Michael Boyce for allegedly attacking a Christiansted motorist with a hammer.
On Oct. 4, doctors at Juan F. Luis Hospital treated a woman for multiple wounds. She told police she was in her car chatting with friends on Company Street when a man approached and began to argue with the group. He allegedly struck the woman with a hammer several times, hitting her head and other parts of her body, police said.
Friends were able to chase away the man identified as Boyce, 38, while the injured woman lay on the ground, police said.
Boyce was charged with attempted murder. He was due in court Monday.
Boyce had been charged with weapons possession and assault charges in 2013. While in custody at Golden Grove, Boyce was arrested again and charged with hiding a makeshift knife in his mattress. He pleaded guilty to the shank in 2015 after launching an unsuccessful appeal to the original charges.
*The Source Homicide List is a chronological log of the homicides recorded in 2025 in the U.S. Virgin Islands, as reported by the VIPD. Cases are broken down by island. While this listing is based on VIPD reports, the Source does not include suicides or vehicular homicides in its listing, which the police and some other media do. This can lead to a discrepancy in the number of incidents reported.
Demonstrators gather at the “No Kings” rally on St. Thomas on Saturday. (Source photo by Finn Sharpless)
On Saturday, demonstrators on St. Thomas gathered at Windward Passage and marched along the Waterfront to the People’s Promenade, taking part in the nationwide No Kings movement.
The St. Thomas rally was part of a nationwide effort involving more than 300 grassroots organizations, with events at over 2,600 locations across all 50 states. Organizers emphasized nonviolent resistance and the defense of democratic principles and institutions.
Events were held in cities ranging from New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles to smaller areas across the country, including all three islands of the USVI.
The demonstrations drew criticism from Republican leaders, such as House Speaker Mike Johnson, who told reporters earlier in the week, “I encourage you to watch — we call it the Hate America rally — that will happen Saturday.”
But on St. Thomas, one protester carried a sign that read, “We love America. That’s why we protest.” The sign provided a stark contrast to Johnson’s characterization, reflecting that local participants saw the demonstrations as a patriotic exercise of their First Amendment rights. Motivated by their love for their country, not hatred.
A local demonstrator holds up a sign reading, “We love America. That’s why we protest,” during Saturday’s rally. (Source photo by Finn Sharpless)
Jane Higgins, organizer of the St. Thomas rally, pushed back against Republican leaders who had labeled the events as hostile and un-American. “They are afraid of people standing up for their rights. People who want to suppress your rights are in fear. We’re not in fear,” she said.
Anna Monica, a local participant, also disagreed with Republican leaders’ characterizations. “It’s peaceful. It is nothing but peaceful,” she said, noting the presence of attendees from diverse backgrounds and communities. “We have some children, we have some older people. It’s a very pleasant gathering, with nice music.”
Demonstrators danced to the music of the St. Thomas All Stars Steel Orchestra, highlighting the peaceful nature of the event. “We are here playing to support the No Kings event, and we’re happy to be here,” said a representative of the orchestra.
The St. Thomas All Stars Steel Orchestra performs for demonstrators during Saturday’s “No Kings” rally. (Source photo by Finn Sharpless)
Attendees raised concerns on a wide range of issues, including defending democracy against what they described as early signs of authoritarianism, advocating for fair and livable wages, higher taxes on billionaires, climate action, stronger opposition to Project 2025, and greater government transparency, including calls for the release of the Epstein files.
Demonstrators voiced opposition to the growing presence of immigration authorities in the territory and across the nation. Others expressed concern about the effects of national policy decisions on the islands.
A local demonstrator holds up a handmade sign reading, “Ice in drinks, not on the streets,” during Saturday’s rally. (Source photo by Finn Sharpless)
“We are a US territory. There’s always the fear. It’s the ripple down effect. Budget cuts and defunding of social programs for children and parents. It is happening, and no one here in our local government was paying enough attention to addressing this previously and preparing people, or coming up with other solutions. Well, now it’s here on our doorstep, so we’re having to demonstrate like the rest of the country is,” said Megan Anderson, a local participant in the demonstrations.
Attendees expressed concern over what they described as worrying signs of authoritarianism and shifting definitions of anti-fascism. Attendees highlighted personal or family histories of resisting fascism and strongly disagreed with the Trump administration’s designation of antifa as a domestic terrorist organization. They viewed this move as an attempt to suppress dissent and intimidate political opposition.
“The government has twisted the meaning of ‘anti-fascist’ and said it’s people here in the United States who don’t like the government,” said Suzy Petersen, a local demonstrator, who said she disagrees with the actions of the Trump administration. “Congress isn’t stopping him. No one’s stopping him. And I’m here marching today because I believe in democracy, and I believe in freedom. I’m not a fascist, I’m anti-fascist.”
A local demonstrator holds up a sign reading, “Proud Antifa Virgin Islander,” during Saturday’s rally. (Source photo by Finn Sharpless)Two demonstrators holding antifa signs during Saturday’s rally. (Source photo by Finn Sharpless)
Many participants said their involvement was about more than any single issue. From protecting civil liberties to challenging policies they viewed as overreach, demonstrators described the rally as a chance to exercise free speech, stand united, and inspire action on a variety of local and national challenges.
Amid their diverse concerns, participants agreed on the need to act collectively to protect the nation’s democratic foundations in response to the unprecedented actions of the current administration. “We’re all going to come together because of this. We have to, to save our country,” said Higgins.
Franklin Powell Sr. Park in Cruz Bay Saturday was the scene of dissent expressed in community at a No Kings Day rally. It was the second such named event held across the United States and territories since June of this year.
National news organizations reported close to 2,500 organized marches, protests, and rallies held in towns and cities nationwide against the actions and policies of President Donald Trump and his administration.
About 70 St. John residents and visitors gathered in the park to signal their discontent; some waved flags and protest signs. Others lined up to create messages on sheets of posterboard.
A number of posters decorate the base of the park’s Freedom statue. (Source photo by Judi Shimel)Terry Bolander smiled as she hoisted a sign that read “I Am Aunt Tifa,” a playful reference to a fictional group the president declared a terrorist organization. (Source photo by Judi Shimel)
A more serious tone came from the park bandstand as rally organizers called on the crowd to continue speaking out against injustice. “Being in community here today is an act of resistance,” said Erin Leib from the St. John Social Action Committee.
She was followed by Trista Sigler, who delivered prepared remarks. “We are a country in crisis; we are a country divided. It is in times like these that the weakest and most vulnerable among us may be oppressed into nothingness,” Sigler said, “Together, we have the power to shape a future where every person’s life is protected; every life matters equally and every community thrives.”
Organizers also encouraged attendees to visit the voter registration table set up steps away from the bandstand. (Source photo by Judi Shimel)
But there was at least one voice at the Saturday scene expressing support for the president and his policies. Sonia Santos, a visitor from Puerto Rico, stepped off a safari taxi and walked in to ask what was going on.
“The man is crazy,” she said, adding some colorful language, “but that’s what is needed now. Change is hard,” Santos said.
Saturday’s rally also added some lighter notes. Kristen Carmichael-Bowers led the group into a chorus of “This Land is Your Land,” by Woody Guthrie. The Dynamic Dancers showed off their rehearsed dance routine, and the crowd was coaxed into forming a line dance to celebrate freedom of expression.
St. John Administrator Shakima Sprauve-Jones opened the rally by singing the National Anthem and the Virgin Islands March. (Source photo by Judi Shimel)
The University of the Virgin Islands’ Caribbean Green Technology Center hosted the Heat Summit 2025 Friday to discuss the growing impacts of extreme heat and strategies to stay safe and resilient. (Photo courtesy UVI)
The all-day summit, which was also streamed virtually and attended by the Source, examined how extreme heat is affecting Virgin Islands residents and highlighted practical strategies to reduce its impacts.
“Summers used to be nice and warm. Now they’re hot – sometimes too hot. So now, the question is how to keep enjoying summer life when it’s hot all the time,” said Gregory Guannel, director of the Caribbean Green Technology Center, in an update from UVI ahead of the event. “The Heat Summit focuses on practical, everyday solutions that help people stay healthy, comfortable, and connected to the outdoors, even as our summers are hotter.”
Heat safety tips from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. (Photo courtesy NOAA)
Presenters underscored the importance of community awareness and preparation, noting that higher temperatures are expected to continue across the territory. Heat Summit 2025 provided tools, resources, and local perspectives on how residents can adapt to hotter summers while protecting health and quality of life, and information from several speakers has been included in this story.
At the Heat Summit 2025 Friday, the National Weather Service highlighted extreme heat as one of the severe weather challenges facing the USVI and Puerto Rico. (Courtesy NWS San Juan and UVI)
Morales emphasized that extreme heat in the Virgin Islands and wider Caribbean is no longer an occasional event but an intensifying trend. He highlighted that both daytime highs and nighttime lows are rising, with 2024 in particular breaking records for prolonged stretches above 90°F.
Morales explained how higher sea-surface temperatures and increased urbanization amplify heat stress, while humidity worsens the body’s ability to cool itself. He noted that 2025 was not quite as hot as 2024, due in large part to stronger trade winds across the islands during the summer months.
Morales warned that extreme heat poses serious health threats, including heat exhaustion, dehydration, and cardiovascular stress. He emphasized that certain groups – particularly the elderly, children, and outdoor workers – face the highest risk, and he urged the public to take heat alerts and advisories seriously to help prevent heat-related emergencies.
Hot temperatures can be dangerous to the human body. It’s important to be aware of warning signs of heat-related illnesses. (Photo courtesy NOAA)
Morales also explained that even when the actual temperature is very high, the “heat index” is often higher. “The heat index, also known as the apparent temperature, is what the temperature feels like to the human body when relative humidity is combined with the air temperature,” according to a definition from the NWS.
In a previous interview between the Source and Morales about extreme heat, Morales offered the following advice regarding staying safe in the heat. With the heat reaching dangerously high levels, staying hydrated and as cool as possible is extremely important – for humans and pets as well.
“What we recommend to the public is to stay in the shade. Drink a lot of water. And if you need to be working or doing something outside, try to complete activities outside of the peak periods of heat between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. And if you have to be outside in the heat, do not expose yourself for more than 15 minutes. We all should know our limitations,” Morales warned.
Community Data and Building Impacts
Hilary Lohmann, Coastal Resilience Coordinator at the V.I. Planning and Natural Resources Department, and Gregory Guannel also shared preliminary findings from a community-driven data campaign that tracked local temperatures in homes across St. Thomas and St. Croix.
The results showed that while outdoor temperatures peak midday, indoor spaces often stay hotter into the evening, with many homes never cooling below 80°F overnight. Data shared during the presentation also revealed that building orientation and construction materials, including concrete, play a major role in heat stress.
Officials with DPNR and CGTC shared preliminary findings from a community-driven data campaign that tracked local temperatures in homes across St. Thomas and St. Croix. Temperatures can remain extremely warm even at night in homes across the territory. (Photo courtesy DPNR, CGTC, UVI)
“Everybody spent the overnight period of time sleeping where the temperature didn’t go below 80 degrees. Or it certainly didn’t feel like it,” Lohmann said.
The findings underscored the challenges of the territory’s building stock, where most homes are concrete with galvanized roofs and louvered windows, which capture breezes but make air conditioning inefficient. Additionally, not all residents have access to air conditioning units. The speakers pointed to solutions such as increasing shade, improving airflow through design, and considering energy efficiency when installing cooling systems.
The Role of Vegetation in Cooling
Vegetation plays a critical role in cooling through evaporative cooling, in which water evaporating from leaves can lower the surrounding air temperature. (Photo courtesy David Hensley and UVI)
David Hensley, a Science Research Specialist at UVI, explained how the built environment and natural ecosystems both influence rising heat in the Virgin Islands. Materials like concrete and metal trap and radiate heat, driving up nighttime temperatures. Vegetation plays a critical role in cooling through both shading and evaporative cooling, in which water evaporating from leaves lowers the surrounding air temperature. He also noted that soil under trees and plants retains more moisture and stays cooler, which prevents it from baking and radiating heat the way bare soil or pavement does. Hensley said that greenery at every scale can help reduce heat stress.
“A single tree would have these effects right around it. So, if you have a tree shading your house, that will make a difference,” he said.
Looking Ahead: Building Resilience Together
As Heat Summit 2025 concluded, attention turned to the next steps for climate adaptation in the Virgin Islands. Viewers raised questions about practical measures such as establishing cooling centers to safeguard residents during the hottest periods, underscoring the urgency of finding community-level solutions.
One of the most impactful closing messages came from LaVerne Ragster, former UVI president and co-investigator with the Caribbean Climate Change Adaptation, Cancer, and Health Disparities Research Center (CARIB-CARES) initiative, which links the University of the Virgin Islands with the University of Puerto Rico. Ragster highlighted that building resilience in the face of rising heat will require regional collaboration, science-based strategies, and a focus on equity in healthcare. CARIB-CARES, funded by the National Institutes of Health, is dedicated to understanding how climate change affects health disparities — particularly cancer prevention and care — across both U.S. territories.
“I think what we have to do as a community is to get enough information from ourselves and from the science to figure out how to effectively function in a changing environment, and that will eventually help us to be more sustainable,” Ragster said in a previous Source interview.
Her remarks echoed the theme running throughout the successful Heat Summit 2025: adaptation is not optional, but a shared responsibility. From planting trees and designing cooler homes, to strengthening healthcare and emergency preparedness, the Virgin Islands must prepare for a hotter future by investing in community resilience and regional partnerships.
The V.I. Diabetes Center of Excellence, in partnership with the Bennie and Martha Benjamin Foundation and the V.I. Department of Education, officially launched its Childhood Diabetes Prevention Program on Friday at Eulalie R. Rivera K-8 School on St. Croix. (Source photo by Diana Dias)
The V.I. Diabetes Center of Excellence, in partnership with the Bennie and Martha Benjamin Foundation and the V.I. Department of Education, officially launched its Childhood Diabetes Prevention Program on Friday at Eulalie R. Rivera K-8 School on St. Croix.
The new initiative aims to identify, educate, and empower children who may be at risk for diabetes, beginning with screenings at schools across the territory. The mobile health center features a waiting area with a television, a triage area, and two examination rooms.
Dr. Julia Sheen, medical director of VIDCOE, said the program comes at a crucial time as the number of young people diagnosed with diabetes continues to increase.
“We’re seeing more children and adolescents show up at our center,” Sheen said. “I used to think our youngest patient was 2 years old, but we just got a referral for a 6-month-old.”
She added that the disease is affecting people at younger ages overall.
“Diabetes is impacting children earlier, and we’re also seeing men in their 30s being severely affected. Most of them with Type 1 and many are having challenges controlling it,” Sheen said.
Students were able to test for the traits of diabetes. (Source photo by Diana Dias)
According to Sheen, obesity remains one of the territory’s major health concerns.
“We have a major problem with obesity in the Virgin Islands. Thirty-eight percent of our population is overweight,” she said. “And if our adults are overweight, that means our children are, too. Being overweight puts us at risk for diabetes.”
“That’s why it’s so important to reach children early to intervene and provide them and their parents with the support they need,” she added. “It’s not only about identifying diabetes early, but also about helping families manage it once it’s diagnosed.”
The mobile center features a triage room. Dr. Donna Christensen, vice chair of the Diabetes Center’s board, emphasized the importance of prevention and education. (Source photo by Diana Dias)
Dr. Donna Christensen, vice chair of the Diabetes Center’s board, emphasized the importance of prevention and education. “Some forms of diabetes can be prevented or slowed in their development,” Christensen said. “We find that some of it is genetic, so it’s important to reach people early, especially if that trait seems to run in their families.”
Principal Loretta Moorehead of Eulalie Rivera K-8 said she was honored to have her school serve as the first in the territory to host the screenings. “I’m very excited,” Moorehead said. “I want to thank everyone who made it possible for our school to be the first to have this screening done. It’s important for us—and for parents—to know our health status.”
Sheen credited Mary Moorehead for helping bring the initiative to life. A longtime advocate for diabetes prevention, Moorehead said her motivation stemmed from observing rising health insurance costs and the growing impact of diabetes on the community.
The mobile health center features a waiting room. (Source photo by Diana Dias)
“I attended a lot of Government Employees Service Commission meetings that deal with health insurance and noticed the numbers climbing year after year,” she said. “Diabetes was contributing to our rising health insurance costs.”
Mary Moorehead said her family’s experience also inspired her to push for prevention.
“My oldest brother became diabetic later in life,” she said. “He had two kidney operations, but just didn’t have the willpower to control his diet—he loved to eat. That made me realize how important prevention really is.”
The mobile health center features two examination rooms. (Source photo by Diana Dias)
She added, “If we can focus on prevention by reaching children early and working with parents to manage it, we can make a real difference. I just hope parents are cooperative, because this is only the first school. The plan is to go through every single school in the territory, and I hope we can have at least 90 percent participation.”
For Sheen, the initiative is not just about testing—it’s about saving lives.
“Honestly, I think every child should be tested regardless, because this is a silent epidemic and it’s not going anywhere,” she said. “The prevalence of diabetes in the Virgin Islands is about 16.9 percent, which means over 14,000 people are living with diabetes. That’s significant.”
Collister Fahie, right, and V.I. Elections Board member Cleopatra Peter, left, exit the V.I. Superior Court during a recess Friday amid a civil suit Fahie and three board members filed against the BOE’s chair, Raymond Williams. (Source photo by Kit MacAvoy)
Moments after dismissing a lawsuit three V.I. Elections Board members and one former senatorial candidate brought against the board’s chair, V.I. Superior Court Judge Alphonso Andrews Jr. said it was clear the action was brought amid “deep infighting” and that some board members “simply are unhappy” with chair Raymond Williams’s leadership.
“That unhappiness is not an issue for this court,” he said, declining to grant a temporary restraining order to halt future board meetings, denying all five of the plaintiffs’ claims and dismissing the complaint altogether.
Collister Fahie — who unsuccessfully ran for a seat in the 36th Legislature — and Elections Board members Harriet Mercer, Lawrence Boschulte and Atanya Springe filed a civil complaint against Williams this week, alleging that he was ineligible to serve on the board because of his positions with the V.I. Lottery, the Public Services Commission and as a “Cabinet member of the Bryan-Roach Administration.” The 15-page complaint also accused Williams of: conspiracy; abuse of authority under the color of law; violation of constitutional rights to equal protection, due process and free association; and fraud.
Andrews denied all of those claims — largely because the plaintiffs failed to submit evidence — and spent much of Friday’s hearing attempting to suss out what, exactly, the plaintiffs were asking him to do. Andrews repeatedly asked if they were seeking Williams’s removal as chair or from the board or what authority the court had to effect those removals. He later said that he was aware of no authority that would allow him to do so.
The initial complaint outlined months of grievances, including one that board members “have had their access to Board Meetings and Committee Meetings of the Board arbitrarily canceled, capriciously rescheduled, and intentionally disrupted by Raymond Williams by surreptitiously denying access to electronic means of communication (Teams) …”
That allegation appeared to stem in part from a decision Williams made to hold Elections Board meetings in person because of an “inability to manage” board members’ talking over one another, according to testimony he gave Friday after Assistant Attorney General Christopher Timmons called him to the stand.
Fahie, who was the only plaintiff to attend the hearing in person, called his co-plaintiffs to testify over the video conferencing platform Zoom. Mercer and Springette both testified virtually, but the court recessed twice Friday to allow them time to log in. More than once, Fahie noted that he traveled to St. Croix specifically to avoid any technical issues.
“Are you suggesting that in-person meetings are better?” Andrews asked him after the other plaintiffs failed to appear virtually following a 90-minute recess on Friday afternoon.
The court recessed to allow Fahie to contact the other plaintiffs, after which Fahie asked for a continuance because Mercer, whom he said had a prior engagement that afternoon, wanted to be present for the closing statements.
“She beat me over the head with that,” he explained.
Andrews denied the motion.
Mercer had testified earlier that Elections Board meetings are frequently “rambunctious,” which Andrews later said he interpreted as meaning “boisterous” and “difficult to control.” When Fahie asked Mercer about problems with the board, Mercer indicated that the main issue was members not listening to each other.
Andrews cited those comments in his final remarks and suggested that board members listening to and respecting one another more could lead to a resolution. The voters who elected them, he said, “will expect nothing less.”
