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The Village Open House Highlights Hope, Healing, and Community Support for Addiction Recovery

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The Village Open House Highlights Hope, Healing, and Community Support for Addiction Recovery
The Village VI Partners in Recovery held an open house on Friday. (Photo by Kareem Alexander)

The Village VI Partners in Recovery team, one of the Virgin Islands’ only residential treatment facilities for individuals battling addiction, opened its doors last Friday for an open house. The event not only raised awareness about addiction recovery services but also celebrated stories of hope and transformation.

According to Brandy Brookes, prevention coordinator at The Village, the open house is a vital opportunity to connect with the wider community. “The Village is one of the only residential treatment facilities for people who are dealing with addiction in the territory,” Brookes said. “We’ve been around the longest, and as a nonprofit, we pull in residents from all over who need care. It’s important for people to know that we’re still here and continuing to serve.”

The Village’s Sion Hill location houses approximately 20 residents at any given time, providing around-the-clock care and support. In addition to its residential program, the organization has expanded its prevention and outpatient treatment services, particularly for youth ages 12 to 25. “Our prevention program is newer,” Brookes explained. “We go to schools and teach students about behavioral health so they can make better decisions and hopefully avoid addiction in the future.”

The open house, held in partnership with Senator-at-Large Angel Bolques Jr., brought together community members, government officials, and former clients. Brookes expressed gratitude for the senator’s support. “Senator Bolques came to our first open house two years ago and encouraged us to continue. This year, he helped with sponsorships and made sure we had what we needed to host this event,” she said.

Bolques also praised the courage of those in recovery. “I am proud of you. It takes a huge amount of courage, determination, and perseverance to decide that you are ready to change your life,” he said.

Sen. Clifford Joseph and Sen. Kurt Vialet were present, and acknowledgments were also given to Sen. Novelle Francis Jr., in recognition of their continued advocacy for recovery services.

Representative from the Office of Gun Violence Prevention, Damian Lang, speaks on Friday. (Photo by Kareem Alexander)
Police Chief Uston A. Cornelius speaks at the open house. (Photo by Kareem Alexander)

Among the guest speakers were Government of the Virgin Islands Administrator Sammuel Sanes, Police Chief Uston A. Cornelius, and Damian Lang, a representative from the Office of Gun Violence Prevention, who shared a personal story about his brother’s journey through The Village. “He spoke about how addiction impacted his family and the power of recovery,” Brookes recalled.

Another moving testimony came from Jamila Russell, who spoke about being the daughter of someone who successfully completed treatment at The Village. “Her mother has been sober for 17 years,” Brookes said. “She shared how her mother was able to become the parent she never had—it was a very emotional and powerful moment.”

Former client Maxwell Peters, who recently completed his treatment, also addressed the audience. He is now employed at The Village as a houseman, providing mentorship and maintaining structure for current residents. “It’s inspiring to see someone who has come full circle,” Brookes said. “He knows exactly what our residents are going through.”

Brookes emphasized that while the event celebrated recovery, it also highlighted the ongoing challenges nonprofits face, particularly around funding. “Most nonprofits in the territory are severely underfunded,” she noted. “We’re providing services that often fill the gap where government programs don’t exist. Despite limited funding, we continue to serve those most in need,” she said.

Through the open house, The Village received donations of food, hygiene products, and household items, and even secured a new dryer to replace one that had broken. “Businesses and community members really came through for us,” Brookes said. “Someone even volunteered to host art classes with our residents, which is the kind of community involvement we love to see.”

Looking ahead, The Village hopes to expand its programs and restore services for mothers with children, a program previously offered but paused due to a lack of funding. “Many women don’t seek treatment because they worry about what will happen to their kids,” Brookes explained. “We’re working to change that.”

Brookes said the open house was a reminder that everyone can play a role in supporting recovery. “Not everyone can work in this field, but there are always ways to give back,” she said. “Whether it’s volunteering, donating, or just spreading awareness, every bit helps someone on their journey to recovery.”

The Village VI Partners in Recovery provides residential substance use treatment and prevention programs designed to meet the unique needs of adults and children. Services include safe residential care, one-on-one and group counseling, aftercare support, relapse prevention strategies, substance use prevention and education, job readiness and educational counseling, family and parenting support, youth life skills programs, and youth outpatient treatment.

For more information, contact Treatment Director Carita Stevens-Gumbs at 340-244-1396 or email carita.stevens@westcare.com.

Deion Pruitt Wins Bronze Medal in Chessboxing for Team USA

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Deion Pruitt Wins Bronze Medal in Chessboxing for Team USA
Professional boxer Deion Pruitt, sitting at the chessboxing arena in Loznica, Serbia, before competing. (Submitted photo)

Last week, Virgin Islander and professional boxer Deion Pruitt competed in the 7th World Chessboxing Championship in Loznica, Serbia, winning the bronze medal in the 84-kilogram weight class.

Pruitt, who had a 9-0-0, seven wins by technical knockout, earned his spot on the USA’s chessboxing team and was one of nine, out of 12 team members, to bring medals home for the country.

“It was nice being able to be on that boxing side and being able to add my own experience I’ve had with team US Virgin Islands and bring that over to Team USA,” he said.

Though Pruitt has an undefeated professional record in boxing, this was his first time competing in this hybrid sport.

Chessboxing is a sport that combines chess and boxing, with each round alternating between the two fields for three minutes. The game ends when time runs out, a player is checkmated, or knocked out. The sport emphasizes both strategic thinking in chess and physical endurance in boxing.

There were 17 countries with a total of 174 fighters competing in this year’s tournament. Pruitt first competed against France, allowing him the opportunity to place third and qualify for the bronze medal. He said that after about 90 seconds with three body shots to his opponent, France’s team threw in the towel. He then competed against Russia.

Boxer, Deion Pruitt, viewing the chessboxing arena in Loznica, Serbia, before competing. (Submitted photo)

The “first three minutes of chess was a very even game. I got compliments from a grandmaster saying I was playing at a very high level,” said Pruitt of his fight against his Russian opponent. “I hit him with some tough shots but those Russians can take some shots. They’re just built different.”

Pruitt said his first move after his three-minute boxing round cost him the game.

“I got checkmated right after,” he said. “I respect chess so much more.”

The bronze medalist added that his biggest challenge leading up to this fight has been understanding the game of chess.

“There’s different planes of thought,” he said.

Despite facing an opponent who proved to be a better chess player, Pruitt’s experience during the tournament improved his performance and conviction. Inspired, he even aims to encourage others to participate in chess by establishing clubs in the Virgin Islands and Louisiana, where he currently resides. He also shared that he participated in his first chess tournament representing Ulla Muller Elementary School in 2007 for a territorial school competition and received second place overall. He acknowledged that his chess club  teacher was “Mr. Clover.”

Of the competition in Serbia, “I got a bronze medal my first time ever trying this sport,” said Pruitt. “The Virgin Islands knows I’ve been bringing medals home, but to now bring a bronze medal home to the USA is a dream come true.”

He jokingly said he gets asked, “Is he a chessboxer or is he just a boxer now?”

Pruitt added that he plans to continue competing in chessboxing and has future matches lined up, indicating a long-term commitment to the sport.

“I will be a part of chessboxing until I die. I’ll have my first professional chessboxing match in May. I plan to do a bunch of tournaments and play at a Elo chess rating of 2500,” said Pruitt.

Pruitt’s journey can be followed on his chessboxing Instagram page at https://www.instagram.com/chessorboxer/ or his personal page https://www.instagram.com/businessxxl/?hl=en.

“Special shoutout to USVI Boxing Federation for pushing me to become the man I have become today, because without them, I would never have the need to step out and do what I do for myself. They motivated me to go further than the Virgin Islands,” said Pruitt.

The 2025 USA chessboxing team after competing in Loznica, Serbia. (Submitted photo)

To note, James Canty III on Team USA became the Super Heavyweight Chessboxing World Champion in the 7th World Chessboxing Championships.

Former K-Mart Customers Left to Navigate Pharmacy Landscape

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Former K-Mart Customers Left to Navigate Pharmacy Landscape
The Illinois-based parent company of K-Mart did not respond to questions about how many customers were served at the pharmacy at Tutu Park Mall or what prompted the decision to close. (Source photo by Judi Shimel)

The abrupt closure of the K-Mart Pharmacy at Tutu Park Mall has raised questions about timely notice to patients about the sudden change. The pharmacy — in operation on St. Thomas since the store first opened in 1995 — closed on Sept. 16.

Those questions became more pronounced with the end-of-the-month arrival of letters from K-Mart’s corporate headquarters in Illinois saying, “As you may be aware, our pharmacy will be closing on Tuesday, September 16th.”

Both the letter and a sign posted to the glass partition where customers used to pick up medications directed them to visit the Walgreens Pharmacy across the road in Anna’s Retreat.

Even the administrators at a medical center inside the mall said they were caught off guard by word of the closure. But Diane Morales, executive assistant to the medical director at St. Thomas East End Medical Center, said staffers there had no advanced notice of the closure.

Questions sent to media services at Transform KM, LLC, asking how many customers were affected by the closure went unanswered. A spokesperson at Walgreens’ corporate headquarters did respond to a press inquiry, but said they could not disclose how many K-Mart Pharmacy patient records were sent over.

“I would encourage you to reach out to K-Mart’s communications team as we do not have those details,” said Senior Specialist Jennifer Coto.

But Coto said the company acknowledged the receipt of pharmacy records. “We welcome patients from any pharmacy and are proud to offer a wide array of healthcare and pharmacy services,” she said.

Newly transferred customers to Walgreens may experience changes at the cash register. National and regional discounts offered by K-Mart Pharmacy no longer apply, but information found online suggests there are discount options available at Walgreens.

Morales said East End Clinic patients are among those who stand to benefit. “The reason why that benefits us as a facility is that we are part of the 340B Pharmacy Program; we are actually the only entity on St. Thomas that has the 340B Pharmacy Pro Discount Program,” Morales said. “I’m able to give them a card that identifies them as our patient and allows them to get the 340 pricing.”

Two other St. Thomas pharmacies — Tradewinds Pharmacy in Red Hook and the Medicine Shoppe at Havensight Mall — also partner with East End Clinic through the federal 340B Drug Pricing Program, the administrator said.

A small shop with big ideas: Kelly Edens at the Medicine Shoppe says a robotic med dispensing device (in background) allows pharmacists to spend more time with customers. (Source photo by Judi Shimel)

Medicine Shoppe pharmacist Kelly Edens said her shop is eager to welcome former K-Mart customers. “We try to encourage many people in the community to come here and let them know this pharmacy is able to provide extras that the other pharmacies can’t,” Edens said. “We have a robot that fills medications, we have special equipment to keep an eye on everyone’s meds to make sure they don’t have interactions.”

Medicine Shoppe is one of four small, independent shops that fill prescriptions on St. Thomas aside from the larger stores that are part of national retail chains. But some of the other smaller shops have reportedly expressed interest in welcoming K-Mart pharmacy customers as well.

Sargassum Amount Eases; Inundations Still Possible Across USVI, Puerto Rico

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Sargassum Amount Eases; Inundations Still Possible Across USVI, Puerto Rico
A map of sargassum observed via satellite in September 2025. Darker red colors indicate more sargassum. (Photo courtesy USF Optical Oceanography Laboratory)

Sargassum levels declined across the region in September, but totals remain above historical norms, leaving the U.S. Virgin Islands and neighboring islands at continued risk of beach inundations, according to a recent report from the University of South Florida’s Optical Oceanography Lab.

The OOL at USF uses satellite imagery to monitor the presence of sargassum across the tropical Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, and the Gulf.

A sargassum outlook report released on Sept. 30 from the OOL at USF noted that the total amount of seaweed has diminished considerably across nearly all of the areas monitored.

“As in previous years, the momentum of sargassum decline continued in September, while total sargassum amounts in each of the five regions decreased,” according to information included in the USF report.

“The decline was substantial in all but the East Atlantic region, with total sargassum amount more than halved. Most sargassum is now in the eastern Caribbean region, followed by the East Atlantic,” USF said.

“In the Gulf, sargassum amounts decreased from 1.9 million metric tons in August to 0.6 million metric tons in September. Yet due to changes in ocean circulation, the amount of sargassum reaching the Straits of Florida increased, likely causing more inundations along the southeast coast of Florida,” the report indicated.

“Despite the overall declines, total sargassum amounts in every area except the East Atlantic region still exceeded the historical record for the month of September, and inundation pressure around many Caribbean regions is still high,” the report noted.

Inundations Still Possible Across Areas Including USVI, Puerto Rico

The trend of decreasing seaweed totals is welcomed news, and a reduction in the amount of sargassum across monitored areas was also reported in a USF report released in August. However, USF cautioned that more inundations should be expected, and the exact locations of algae arrivals are challenging to predict. Still, the report specifically noted the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico as areas where sargassum may end up.

“Total sargassum amounts in all regions are likely to continue to decline, possibly reaching the annual minimum between October and November,” USF stated. “However, because the absolute amount is still much higher than any previous September, sargassum inundation of variable degrees will continue to occur, especially along the Mexican Caribbean coast and around Haiti, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, among others.”

“Importantly, whether a beach or small region receives a large amount of sargassum depends on local factors that are difficult to predict, including winds and ocean currents,” USF acknowledged.

The Source contacted Chuanmin Hu, a professor of optical oceanography at USF after receiving the September update. When asked about the potential for more inundations across the USVI, Hu emphasized that while additional seaweed arrivals are possible, they do not automatically mean an extreme inundation will occur.

Minor accumulations of sargassum were observed on September 29, along the North side of St. Croix. (Source photo by Jesse Daley)

“Although the amount of sargassum in September is much lower than August, it is still higher than previous September months,” Hu said. “Inundation events may continue to occur around the areas mentioned in the report, but it does not necessarily guarantee that more events or more severe events will occur,” he noted.

As reported in a recent Source interview with Amy Dempsey, a marine biologist and founder of the consulting firm Bioimpact, Inc., officials in the U.S. Virgin Islands have begun using floating barriers to divert incoming mats of sargassum before they reach the shoreline. The booms have shown promise in keeping beaches clearer, but they require constant upkeep due to strong currents and storm damage, and must also be removed ahead of any approaching cyclones.

Sargassum Explained

A previous Source article included additional information about sargassum in an interview with Yuyuan Xie, Ph.D., a research scientist at USF. Xie is involved with the university’s OOL.

“Pelagic sargassum seaweed is a brown macroalgae floating on the ocean surface,” Xie said. “It was first reported in the 15th century by Christopher Columbus, and a regional sea in the North Atlantic Ocean, the Sargasso Sea, was named after this plant. Sargassum serves as a habitat for many marine animals, such as turtles, fish, shrimp, crabs, and so on. These macroalgae can grow to a length of several meters and form floating mats on the ocean surface,” Xie continued.

 Health Impacts

Sargassum has positive and negative benefits for the environment. Fortunately, the arrival of the algae is not extremely dangerous to people. However, there are some significant health risks.

“Most of the time, moderate amounts on beaches would not represent a risk factor for humans. However, there are exceptions,” cautioned Xie. “After a couple of days onshore, sargassum starts to decompose and release noxious and stinking gases such as ammonia and hydrogen sulfide. The bad smell can cause respiratory problems. There are reports that in some of the Caribbean Islands, the hospitalization rate has gone up during the sargassum season,” he said.

“Sargassum can be both good and bad for the environment. In the ocean, it is a critical habitat for many animals, so they should like to see increased sargassum. Sargassum on beaches can also stabilize sand dunes, thus helping to avoid beach erosion. But too much of a good thing can also make it bad — excessive amounts of sargassum can also cause environmental and economic problems,” Xie added.

“There is no scientific consensus on exactly what caused the sargassum increases in the past decade in the Atlantic Ocean, but climate change may be part of the reason, as it affects precipitation, ocean circulation, and dust events, among others. This is still a research topic,” according to Xie. “The current predictions for a busy year of sargassum are based on statistical models rather than the exact causes of why the amount of seaweed is expected to increase.”

Follow Sargassum Updates and the Weather Forecast

 Individuals can follow the progression of the current mat of seaweed and stay up to date each month on where sargassum may be headed.

Finally, in addition to tracking the occurrence of sargassum, residents and visitors across the U.S. Virgin Islands are encouraged to continue monitoring the local weather forecast.

The NHC is monitoring Disturbance #2 in the central Atlantic, which has a medium chance of development over the next seven days. Residents and visitors across the USVI are encouraged to monitor the system closely. The NHC has also flagged “Disturbance #1,” an area of low pressure in the Gulf; however, the system is not expected to develop. (Photo courtesy of NHC)

The National Hurricane Center is monitoring a tropical wave moving across the Atlantic Ocean with a medium risk of development over the next seven days. The wave, currently designated as “Disturbance #2,” could potentially develop into at least a tropical depression as it travels west to west-northwest across the Main Development Region between the west coast of Africa and the Caribbean. Residents are urged to follow the forecast closely.

The NHC has also flagged “Disturbance #1,” an area of low pressure in the Gulf; however, the system is not expected to develop.

Marine conditions will remain hazardous across the local islands until early this week. (Photo courtesy NWS)

Meanwhile, the National Weather Service in San Juan, Puerto Rico, has warned that very warm temperatures will persist across the area, and heat alerts may be issued. Showers and thunderstorms are also possible, and marine conditions will remain hazardous for the next few days due to a powerful swell affecting the local islands. Multiple marine alerts are currently in effect for areas of Puerto Rico and the USVI.

Weather information is available from the NWS, the NHC, and NOAA. The local weather forecast for the U.S. Virgin Islands is regularly updated on the Source Weather Page and VI Source YouTube Channel, and individuals can also find helpful weather information and alerts from the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency.

St. Thomas Sailor Serves Aboard USS Cole as Ship Marks 25 Years Since Deadly Attack

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St. Thomas Sailor Serves Aboard USS Cole as Ship Marks 25 Years Since Deadly Attack

Seaman Arami Mazara, a 2022 graduate of Charlotte Amalie High School, is serving aboard the USS Cole, a U.S. Navy destroyer based in Norfolk, Virginia, as the ship observes the 25th anniversary of a terrorist attack that killed 17 sailors and wounded 37 others, a press release announced.

Seaman Arami Mazara (Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Marieliza Rosales, Navy Public Affairs Support Element East)

Mazara, who joined the Navy a year ago, serves as a retail services specialist. “I joined the Navy to be the first in my family to enter military service,” Mazara said. “I also wanted to see the world outside of the island, and I knew I could do that in the Navy.”

The attack on the Cole occurred in October 2000, when two al-Qaida suicide bombers detonated explosives while the ship was refueling in Yemen. The blast tore a 40-foot hole in the vessel, and sailors worked more than 96 hours to free trapped shipmates, contain flooding and prevent catastrophic fires, according to the press release.

Nicknamed the “Determined Warrior,” the Cole returned to service in April 2002 after 14 months of repairs and has since deployed on numerous missions. Its most recent deployment in 2024 lasted seven months, with operations in the Mediterranean Sea, Red Sea, Gulf of Aden and Arabian Gulf to provide deterrence and defense for U.S. allies and partners, the press release stated.

The Cole is a multi-mission destroyer equipped with Tomahawk missiles, torpedoes, guns and a Phalanx close-in weapons system. More than 300 sailors serve on board, performing highly specialized jobs ranging from engine maintenance to weapons handling, the release stated.

Mazara said he takes pride in his work and accomplishments. “I’m proudest of winning Blue Jacket of the Quarter last year, and I’m grateful to everyone onboard USS Cole who helped me get there,” he said.

The Navy is celebrating its 250th birthday this year. Officials noted that America’s prosperity is tied to the seas, with 90 percent of global commerce traveling by ship and undersea fiber optic cables supporting internet access, the release stated.

“Serving in the Navy means I am making my family proud and enjoying my time seeing the world,” Mazara said.

Thomas F. Shelley Dies at 85

Mat Probasco
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Thomas F. Shelley Dies at 85

Thomas F. Shelley, aka Tom Shelley, of Christiansted, St. Croix, passed away on Monday, August 18, 2025. He was 85 years old.

Thomas F. Shelley

He is survived by his son, Scott T. Shelley; special friends, Christine Oliver (Personal Caretaker), Barbara Henderson, Alan Bronstein, Leroy Parker, Errol Cromwell, Lew Drain, and Tracy Bradshaw; other relatives and friends to include, Staff and Members of Quantum Health Care Services, The Turning Point Senior Care, JFL Surgical Ward and Emergency Ward, Express Deli Sandwiches Tide Village & McChain Hamm & Associates; a host of other friends too numerous to mention.

The family of Thomas F. Shelley would like to express their heartfelt thanks to all who have expressed their condolences. At this time, they will mourn their loss privately.

Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Schuster’s Crematorium, LLC.

Melita Leona Miller-Menders Dies at 87

Mat Probasco
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Melita Leona Miller-Menders Dies at 87

Melita Leona Miller-Menders, of La Grange, transitioned into eternal life on September 17. She was 87 years old. 

Melita Leona Miller-Menders

She was preceded in death by her mother, Christina Trotman; father, Hubert Miller; spouse, Raymond Theodore Menders; daughters, Dawn Thomas, Sonia Menders; son, Almeric Menders; grandchildren, Akiesha, Raymond, Joseph, Jahni; sister, Marie James; brothers, Luckely Roberts, Alric Miller.

She is survived by her daughters, Rosita Menders, Ramona Menders, Gertrude Menders, Jacqueline Menders; sons, Donald Francis, Leon Thomas, Noel Menders Sr., Wallace Menders, Reynard Menders Sr.; grandchildren, Tekisha, Danisha, Jessica, Akiela, Ashmeed, Akiama, Deray, Khalied, Rita Marie, Omega, Omari, Nadine, Sienna, Unity, Adama, Noel Jr., Nevaughh, Ray, Roi, Reynaldo, Leona, Steve Jr., Janet, Jacey, Jahleed, Jehlani, Angela, Reynard Jr, Rakela, Kevin, Keanu, Syri, Latisha, Shenisha, Kaliesha, Ray Harris Jr.; (59) grandchildren and (10) great grandchildren; sisters, Beulah Robinson, Gladys Anthony; brother, James Parris; nieces, Paulette, Virginia, Laura Mae, Irene, Nathalia, Louise, Lynette, Delacie, Nerene, Janya, Marcelle, Ronell, Monet; nephews, Alfredo, Shawnee, Barry, Rudy, James Jr., Alric Jr., Albert; daughters-in-law, Naomi Clark-Thomas, Carol Peters-Menders, Sharlene Titus-Menders; sister-in-law, Celine Parris; godchildren, Renwick Samuel, Wayne Miller, Deseri Lewis, Germaine Payne; cousins and other relatives, Miller, Messer, Springer, Gautier, James, Trotman; special friends, Inez Armstrong, Catherine Jarvis, Georgiana Farrell, Deanroy Baptiste Sr., Steve Hendrickson Sr., Denese Mason, Michelle Murray, John Franklin, Richards Family, McIntosh Family, Nesbitt Family, Shakurs Family, Ms. Martin, Lawrence Family, Margaret Edwards, Dave Young, Fox Family, Lenore Thomas, Ray Harris Sr., Kimlyn James, Tricia Lynch, Angela McIntosh, Ms. Rex; Other relatives and friends too numerous to mention. 

Funeral service will be held on Oct. 9 at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Frederiksted, St. Croix, USVI. Viewing will begin at 9 am with service at 10 am. Interment will follow at Frederiksted Cemetery. 

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

Lisa P. White Carty Dies

Mat Probasco
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Lisa P. White Carty Dies

With deep love and profound sorrow, we announce the passing of Lisa P White Carty who passed on September 19, 2025.

Lisa P. White Carty

She is survived by:

Son: Alyster Edwards Jr.

Adopted Son: Kamal Parker and Akimba Jones Sr.

Daughter: Adia Edwards White 

Adopted Daughter: Ranisha Stephens

Grandchildren: Alyjah Edwards, A’zha Edwards, Camalie O’Neal, Azaan O’Neal and Cameéra O’Neal. 

Spouse: Calvin Carty

Sisters: Lavern Olive, Monique Hobson and Veronica White

Brothers: Gregory Duncan and Alfred White 

Neices: Tamra Olive, Tara Olive, Monisha Wheeler, Nyella Duncan and Anna George

Nephews: Tarik Adams, Thorne Olive, and Thomas Olive II

Uncle: Mario Duncan

Aunt: Ima Duncan

Father: John White

Mother: Myrtle P Duncan (deceased)

Funeral service will be held on Oct. 24, at Turnbull’s Funeral Home  

Tributes 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Service: 10 a.m. 

Internment Private 

Workforce Development Talks Include Technology Factors

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Workforce Development Talks Include Technology Factors
Panelists and a sign language interpreter discuss global marketing strategies at Friday’s workshop. (Source photo by Judi Shimel)

Organizers of the third and final day of the 2025 Governor’s Workforce Summit invited the audience to consider building resilience and exploring opportunities in the environment. Some attendees who sat in on St. Croix and St. Thomas sessions earlier in the week also joined the Friday session at the Cleone Creque Legislative Conference Room on St. John.

The theme of this year’s series was training, technology, and transformation, said moderator Sana Joseph Smith at day’s end. Smith serves as a special adviser on education and workforce development.

“ … the reason why we selected that theme is because we are acknowledging that technology is in a state right now where it is completely transforming the way that we do business, the way that we train, the way that we are empowering people to really take part in the workforce,” Joseph Smith said.

One of the day’s panels took a look at how technology affects the lives of home-based remote workers — a sector that gained prominence during the 2020-21 COVID-19 pandemic.

Lt. Gov. Tregenza Roach listened attentively to all of the day’s panel discussions. Later on Friday, he reflected on the value of promoting further dialogue. “I think when you gather all of these perspectives together, there’s an opportunity to identify ways to improve,” he said.

Roach also spoke about the role workforce development is playing in the ongoing recovery from the 2017 hurricanes Irma and Maria. Eight years have passed since the storms brought widespread destruction to the Virgin Islands.

The government at that time saw workforce development as a way to maximize employment and keep federal recovery funds circulating locally.

Was that effort as successful as was once hoped? The lieutenant governor said unresolved matters remain a hindrance. “Things like maximizing our contractors’ ability to participate when they have these issues with bonding, and how do we look towards improving the climate so that they can participate more,” Roach said.

Since 1998, the territory has pursued initiatives designed to build the kind of capability that adapts to changes in the economy both locally and globally. Joseph Smith said the evolution of V.I. workforce development has produced world-class workers and entrepreneurs. “We have the ability to compete at a quality and a service level that is on par and even better than some of our counterparts across the globe,” she said.

“What we wanted folks to be able to get from this summit and this theme is for them to acknowledge the fact that if they embrace and take advantage of the training that’s available, they cannot only upskill themselves, but they can upskill their team members, their staff, and literally transform the organizations that they participate in,” she said.

Op-Ed: Creation of Maroon Sanctuary Territorial Park Greeted with Jubilation

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Op-Ed: Creation of Maroon Sanctuary Territorial Park Greeted with Jubilation
The northwest coast of St. Croix was the last stronghold of Maroons in the Danish West Indies. (Photo by Olasee Davis)
The northwest coast of St. Croix was the last stronghold of Maroons in the Danish West Indies. The land is now a territorial park. (Photo by Olasee Davis)

Since the newly established Maroon Country Park, now called Maroon Sanctuary Territorial Park, I have been getting hundreds of texts, phone calls, and email messages — locally, nationally and from around the world — congratulating me for my decades of efforts to preserve the Great Northwest of St. Croix. Believe me, I am not an island unto myself. What I did was I kept the fire burning politically and socially for 42 years until Maroon Country became the largest established territorial park system in Virgin Islands history.

Olasee Davis
Olasee Davis (Submitted photo)

Starting from 1969 to 1973, an inventory was completed of the Great Northwest and the Great Northeast Central of St. Croix to establish a park in Maroon Country. This proposed park would have encompassed 6,000 or 7,000 acres of land with forests, historic sites, and the northwestern rough coastline of St. Croix. However, the park never materialized. Nevertheless, let us move forward to 1983. In 1983, a developer named Jake Jacobus purchased 4,000-plus acres of land from the northwest and northeast central of St. Croix from the Rockefeller family.

Rudolph Schulterbrandt
Rudolph Schulterbrandt

It was there where I began my social and political career in land preservation to protect Maroon Country. My first public hearing was held at the then College of the Virgin Islands, now the University of the Virgin Islands, on the St. Croix campus, where the late Agriculture Commissioner Rudolph Schulterbrandt was the facilitator for the hearing. I was in my early 20s. I had just completed my undergraduate studies and planned to return to graduate school to study environmental science, natural resources, and agriculture — a promise that I made in the 1970s to the late Gov. Cyril Emmanuel King.

Nevertheless, we received funding from the Department of Commerce and National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to protect Maroon Country. As a result, the designation of 2,469 acres of land as the Maroon Sanctuary Territorial Park was made official Aug. 25 of this year by Virgin Islands Gov. Albert Bryan Jr.

Following are some of the many comments from people expressing their views about the newly established Maroon Sanctuary Territorial Park in the Virgin Islands. Mary Roebuck Mason wrote, “I am so thankful for all the work Bush Man has dedicated his efforts and spiritual self to preserving, what I consider exceptionally sacred land, for all ah we. My great-grandparents’ navel strings, sweat, blood, and, I am sure, many tears were shed in Annaly and Orange Grove West, documented from the 1700s …”

A Crucian youth enjoys the tidepool at the newly establish Maroon Sanctuary Territorial Park, the largest in the Virgin Islands, with its jagged coastline on northwest St. Croix. (Photo by Olasee Davis)
A Crucian youth enjoys the tidepool at the newly established Maroon Sanctuary Territorial Park, the largest in the Virgin Islands, with its jagged coastline in northwest St. Croix. (Photo by Olasee Davis)

Jeanne Cole, commented, “I’m so glad people are helping preserve the real history of our early settlements. I have Native American friends fighting the same battles. Glad St. Croix won this one. Hope the mainland celebrates with you.”

Carolyn Ehle wrote, “Tears of joy here!!! The best news I’ve heard in ages!! Congratulation to all of the team, but especially to Professor Davis for carrying the torch of the history and bush knowledge of St. Croix and fulfilling a personal dream which I share! Many spirits may now find peace and refuge. My prayer wheel is rolling that we all live many more years to bask in the joy and relief and gratitude news brings.”

Kathy Lawson Costello commented, “Olasee is such as amazing man. So much knowledge of the island history and island botany. The hiking club was one of the unexpected treasures of my 5 years on island.” Susan Q Britton noted, “Preserving our history! Fabulous, thank you Professor Davis!” Mattice Haynes added, “I’m so grateful this is finally happening!! Professor Olasee Davis is an exemplar of vision and dedication!” Bruce E. Small commented, “This is awesome. Congrats on the advocacy and determination to preserve our heritage and culture. Kudos!!!!” Patrick Richardson added “Wonderful news, history and ecological biodiversity.”

Irene Lewis wrote, “Hard work and passion pay off!! Thank You!” Anastasla Doward commented, “Great news! Thank you Dr. Olasee Davis!” John McKeon shared, “Good man doing good work.” Ann-Marrie Hendrickson wrote, “Exceptional job Olasee, congratulations!” Sayeeda Carter said, “Praise Jah and the efforts of Olasee!” Riise Shulterbrandt Thurland noted, “Job well done Olasee!”

George Tyson wrote, “Hearty congratulations for this piece and all you have done to make the Maroon Park possible.” Jennifer Valiulis commented, “This is such amazing news! Congratulations to you and all the folks that have worked to make this a reality. Thank you for your years of dedication to preserving this essential area of St. Croix history, culture, and environment. It is a very welcome relief to receive some good news for a change.” Em Whalen said, “Wow, Olasee! This is incredible news! Your article brought tears to my eyes. I ‘m so incredibly happy for you and for all of the people with a connection to Maroon Ridge. It truly is a sacred site.”

Denise Blanchette wrote, “At a time when there is not a lot of good news, THIS is such good news! I was a little worried for a while, what with Trump at the helm. Bravo!” Suzanne Pierre commented, “Good Afternoon, Bushman, God works through certain people, and in ways don’t understand, to bless the Earth and humanity. Thank you for being one of those people who listen, reflect, and remain steadfast to make the impossible a reality for the next generation. Thank you for living a life we can all look up to. I am ever grateful to be your student and honored to walk in your shadow.”

Tashya Allen shared, “Dr. Davis — this is so exciting!! Thank you for all your hard work, dedication and faith in making this happen. I know it been years on you doing to make this happen. This is truly amazing, and transformational — this sacred land will be safe from development and preserve St. Croix’s heritage.” Nick Drayton stated, “Congratulation Olasee, on your latest and historical accomplishment! Your struggle has been ageless and tireless, and has paid off in the end, you are an inspiration to all!! This ordinary bushman’s name is now etched into the pages of history forever on a topic that spans many past generations and serves to inspire many future generations! That’s extraordinary for an ordinary Bushman! I am proud of you and proud to be your friend!!”

Susan Kraeger wrote, “Thank you for this! What an important step forward in protecting our island’s cultural heritage! And a tremendous addition to our heritage sites!” Melissa Hill commented, “Olasee, What a beautiful article. I can tell a lot of your heart went into it. Thank you for including me and the Trust for Public Land in it. Congratulations on the conservation of Maroon Ridge, thank you for all you’ve done!”

I would like to thank the St. Croix Hiking Association members, V.I. Trail Alliance members, my colleagues of the University of the Virgin Islands,  V.I. Territorial Praks System colleagues, Division of Department of Planning and Natural Resources and so many other people at home and abroad for this great accomplishment by all of us to preserve our history and culture of the Virgin Islands. It was impossible to mention everyone’s names and their congratulations to me. In many of the comments I got, people wanted to know when the big ribbon cutting will take place for the park and big cultural celebration. I will say this, the park is the people’s park. So, anyone or groups can get together and celebrate our ancestor grounds.

 — Olasee Davis is a bush professor who lectures and writes about the culture, history, ecology and environment of the Virgin Islands when he is not leading hiking tours of the wild places and spaces of St. Croix and beyond.

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