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‘Keeping Masquerading Traditions Alive’ Hosts Roundtable on ‘Masked Memory’

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‘Keeping Masquerading Traditions Alive’ Hosts Roundtable on ‘Masked Memory’
“The Keeping Masquerading Traditions Alive” initiative invites the public to explore the rich and profound masquerading legacy of the Virgin Islands through a roundtable discussion titled “Masked Memory.”
Masqueraders with their king dancing by Government House in Christiansted, early 1900s (Photo courtesy St. Croix Landmarks Society

Scheduled for Tuesday, starting at 6 p.m. at the Dorsch Center in Frederiksted, St. Croix, the roundtable promises to be a deep exploration of both the fading and surviving forms of masquerade. The discussion will breathe life into traditions ranging from Raffia, Baby Dolls, Mother Hubbards, and the Bull, to the now rarely seen Pitchy Patchy and the Clowns of St. Thomas.

This event will feature a remarkable gathering of local culture bearers, including Willard John, Amy Petersen, Asta Williams, Dembaya Arts Conservatory, and the Ay Ay Cultural Dancers. Presenters will share their knowledge and personal connections to these cultural traditions.

Adding a unique dimension to the conversation is special guest Baba Onifade, a marine scientist and Babalawo, internationally recognized for integrating science with Africana spirituality. His work often centers on Olokun, the divinity who guards the deep ocean. In a landmark 1986 expedition, Baba Onifade helped explore the ocean floor, bringing back artifacts now housed in the Museum of Natural History in New York. His presence will bridge the masquerading practices of the Virgin Islands with their West African roots, exploring themes of water, movement, and ancestral memory.

The timing of this round table is significant, held on the eve of Contract Day, also known as Fireburn, a day that commemorates the 1878 labor uprising. Stephanie Chalana Brown, the cultural steward and coordinator of this project, believes in the lasting impacts of this initiative. “Masquerading is a form of movement, memory, and survival. It carries the spiritual and ethical weight of our ancestors while giving our youth a chance to move in that same rhythm. This project ensures that masquerade is not only remembered, but lived,” Brown said.

This roundtable is a key part of a broader, ongoing initiative to keep masquerading traditions vibrant. This project offers free weekly masquerade community dance and drum classes for adults and children, held most Thursdays at the Caribbean Boys and Girls Club in Frederiksted. These sessions are designed as an intergenerational bridge, connecting the wisdom of the elders with the energy of the youth.

“The Keeping Masquerading Traditions Alive” initiative is supported by grant funding through the St. Croix Foundation’s Healing Humanities Grant, ensuring all events are free to the public. Its mission is to strengthen community identity through the powerful, embodied practice of cultural tradition.

For the most current schedule and updates, please follow the official Virgin Islands Masquerading Traditions Facebook page.

Third Installment of Elder Justice Summit Set for Monday

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Third Installment of Elder Justice Summit Set for Monday

The third in a series of Elder Justice Workshops invites senior citizens, dependent adults and their caregivers to a Monday workshop on St. Thomas. Organizers working with AARP of the Virgin Islands say those who attend will learn how to protect themselves, their loved ones and their finances from abuse and exploitation.

The session also provides an opportunity for the audience to discuss situations they face in daily life that leave them feeling vulnerable. In some cases, the information shared at Monday’s summit may help others question their own behavior.

One of the concerns expressed throughout the series is the role some family members play in perpetrating abuse, behavior that experts say they may not recognize. Experts say many cases of elder abuse go underreported, highlighting the need for specialized psychological and legal support.

“We felt it necessary (sic) to get certain targeted populations within the community seated in one space, really focus in on elder justice and how they can prevent abuse or any kind of exploitation that happens against them … and what they can do to help protect themselves,” said AARP Associate State Director Pamela Toussaint.

Three speakers are expected to help the audience explore various topics. Jessica Whyte, licensed professional counselor, will explain why reporting abuse is essential and address common fears about turning in family members or losing care support.

Whyte is the lead clinician for the JW Medical Behavioral Health Center on St. Thomas.

A representative from First Bank will explain why it’s important for seniors to guard against financial exploitation in a presentation called Banking Safe. And attorney Shelby King Gaddy from Legal Services of the Virgin Islands will describe the necessity and risks of legal directives: guardianships, powers of attorney, and advanced directives.

“You want to ensure that the documents that you’re signing, they’re legally binding. You want to ensure that you understand all of the documents that you’re signing that you’re not signing away (sic) your finances; you’re not signing away your homes; you’re not signing away, (sic) your treasured assets,” Toussaint said.

Each month since July, AARP, along with the Human Services Department Division of Adult Protective Services, has held Elder Justice Workshops for the law enforcement and banking communities. Toussaint said organizers are encouraged by signs of increased awareness and the willingness of some to report suspected abuse.

The Monday summit is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the My Brother’s Workshop behind Home Depot in Estate Donoe.

Photo Focus: VIMSIA Hosts Second Annual Carni-Fall Fundraising Event

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Photo Focus: VIMSIA Hosts Second Annual Carni-Fall Fundraising Event

The Virgin Islands Montessori School and Peter Gruber International Academy hosted its second annual Carni-Fall fundraiser on Saturday at Coral World Ocean Park. The event brought together families, local vendors, and community members to celebrate culture and the start of the school year.

“I think this is an opportunity not only for Montessori to embrace the community, but also for the community to learn what Montessori is about,” said Vernon Araujo, marketing director for the school. “There are only a few schools in the entire world that offer this type of education. For everyone on the island to have access to talk with teachers, administration, and kids is amazing. That’s what I love about this event. It’s a carnival in the fall — like ‘Christmas in July.’ It highlights our culture and community and encourages more dialogue.”

A colorful collection of hand-drawn letters spelling “Montessori & PGIA” (Source photo by Finn Sharpless)

Araujo noted that the event drew a diverse crowd, with people of all ages and backgrounds mingling, and multiple languages being heard throughout the park.

Two moko jumbies perform in front of a crowd. (Source photo by Finn Sharpless)

“Tonight is as much about raising money for our important student scholarship programs as it is about bringing together the community at the beginning of the school year,” said Gloria Arpasi, head of school at Virgin Islands Montessori School and Peter Gruber International Academy. “Carni-Fall is our way of celebrating one of our most beloved events — carnival — in September, to kick off the school year with our families and friends.”

Attendees enjoyed food from Island Edge Culinary, drinks at bars sponsored by Coca-Cola and Leatherback Beer, and performances by VIMSIA’s student moko jumbies and Topp Notch Band.

Topp Notch Band performs live music during the Carni-Fall event. (Source photo by Finn Sharpless)
A moko jumbie leans on the roof of Coral World’s touch pool during the Carni-Fall fundraiser. (Source photo by Finn Sharpless)

Local vendors and artisans were featured in a mini Vendors Plaza, giving the community a chance to support small businesses while celebrating island culture.

Priscilla Lynn poses in front of a sign reading “Vendors” during the Carni-Fall fundraiser. (Source photo by Finn Sharpless)

“The event is a beautiful opportunity to celebrate our culture and share it,” said Ital Delroy Anthony, a vendor selling local crafts. “It allows us to teach children, adults, and visitors. This is how we keep the community alive, by hosting events like these. People can learn about traditional Virgin Islander coconut bird feeders and moko jumbies.”

Ital Delroy Anthony poses behind his vendor booth selling native arts and crafts during the Carni-Fall fundraiser. (Source photo by Finn Sharpless)

“I think the event is a great opportunity that brings the community together,” said Erica Peterson of Cheerful Cherry Studio USVI. “I love participating in cheer.”

Proceeds from Carni-Fall 2025 went to VIMSIA’s Annual Fund, which supports expanding access to high-quality education for Virgin Islands families, enhancing the school’s distinctive learning experience, and funding teacher training, school operations, and community outreach programs.

Weekly Weather Forecast With Jesse Daley

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Weekly Weather Forecast With Jesse Daley

Check out our weekly weather forecast with Jesse Daley, covering Sunday, Sept. 28, through Saturday, Oct. 4. Our YouTube playlist is updated every week, AND check out Jesse’s daily weather updates here.

NHC Monitoring Storms in Atlantic; Hazardous Marine Conditions and Showers Forecast Across USVI, Puerto Rico

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NHC Monitoring Storms in Atlantic; Hazardous Marine Conditions and Showers Forecast Across USVI, Puerto Rico
The NHC is currently monitoring two systems in the Atlantic basin: Hurricane Humberto and Tropical Depression Nine. (Photo courtesy NHC and NWS)

The National Hurricane Center is monitoring two systems in the Atlantic basin: Hurricane Humberto and Tropical Depression Nine, anticipated to intensify into Tropical Storm Imelda. While neither storm is expected to directly affect the USVI and Puerto Rico, showers are possible, and marine conditions will be hazardous.

Tropical Cyclones Monitored by NHC

Infrared satellite imagery obtained at 6 p.m. AST shows Hurricane Humberto located well to the northeast of the USVI and Puerto Rico. Tropical Depression Nine is also visibly located near the Bahamas. (Photo courtesy NOAA)

As of a 5 p.m. update from the NHC on Saturday, Hurricane Humberto, a major Category 5 hurricane, was located approximately 300 miles north north-east of the northern Leeward Islands. The storm is expected to remain over water as it moves in the general direction of Bermuda, though the cyclone is forecast to pass west of the island.

Hurricane Humberto

The NWS in San Juan, Puerto Rico, warned on Saturday of choppy seas due to swells generated by Hurricane Humberto. Several marine alerts have been issued. (Photo courtesy NWS)

However, powerful swells generated by Hurricane Humberto will cause dangerous marine conditions across several areas, including the USVI and Puerto Rico.

“Swells generated by Humberto will affect portions of the northern Leeward Islands, the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and Bermuda beginning tonight and continuing next week,” the NHC warned. “Swells from Humberto will also affect the U.S. East Coast beginning Monday. These swells are likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions.”

In anticipation of the hazardous conditions, the National Weather Service in San Juan, Puerto Rico, has issued a Small Craft Advisory for portions of the waters surrounding the local islands, with seas expected to reach between at least four and seven feet. Additionally, a High Surf Advisory is in effect for areas of Puerto Rico.

The NWS also said that the risk of rip currents will be elevated at coastlines across the region due to the strong swell. A High Rip Current Risk is in effect for portions of Puerto Rico and the USVI until 6 a.m. on Monday.

“A long period northeasterly swell from Hurricane Humberto will continue to increase seas and breaking waves during the weekend, resulting in a high risk of rip currents,” the NWS reported on Saturday. “There is a Small Craft Advisory in effect across the offshore Atlantic waters.”

“Improving coastal conditions are expected beginning on Monday,” the NWS added.

Additionally, the NWS noted that trailing moisture associated with Humberto could bring periods of rainfall and thunderstorms to areas across the local islands over the coming days, and minor concentrations of Saharan dust are also anticipated.

“An increase in moisture is forecast from Monday into Tuesday; however, Saharan dust will also move in, resulting in hazy skies in some isolated areas,” the NWS stated.

As of Saturday afternoon, there were no reports online from the Virgin Islands Port Authority regarding changes to port conditions across the territory.

Tropical Depression Nine

In addition to Humberto, the NHC is closely watching Tropical Depression Nine, which is expected to become Tropical Storm Imelda soon. As of Saturday afternoon, the cyclone was moving across the Bahamas, bringing rainfall and wind. Tropical weather alerts have been issued for the Bahamas as well as areas along the east coast of Florida.

The NHC has noted that there is significant uncertainty regarding the track of the cyclone as it moves toward the southeastern U.S. Due to the interaction between Humberto and Tropical Depression Nine, the system could move over land near South Carolina, or it may stall offshore. Either way, the NHC has warned that weather impacts are expected to occur along the U.S. East Coast, and travelers are encouraged to monitor flights regarding any possible disruptions.

Weather Updates

Finally, the NWS has cautioned that very warm temperatures will continue to occur across both Puerto Rico and the USVI. Heat alerts may be issued.

It is crucial to remember that the forecast can change very quickly. USVI residents and visitors are encouraged to continue to remain prepared. Weather information is available from the NWS, the NHC, and NOAA.

Additionally, the local weather forecast for the U.S. Virgin Islands is regularly updated on the Source Weather Page and VI Source YouTube Channel. A weekly Tropical Outlook article from the Source is also published throughout hurricane season to provide in-depth updates. Residents and visitors can find additional weather alerts and preparedness information from the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency.

Steelworkers Union Stalwart Frederick Joseph dies at 81

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Steelworkers Union Stalwart Frederick Joseph dies at 81

Frederick Joseph, a Virgin Islands labor leader who helped secure better wages and working conditions for unionized refinery workers, is being remembered for his activism and community support.

Joseph — known to his friends as Freddy — passed away Sept. 23 at the age of 81. Among those paying tribute was Delegate to Congress Stacey Plaskett, who called Joseph “a fierce, passionate, and meticulous” advocate.

He was best known for his work with the United Steelworkers Union, Local 8248, where in 2001, he helped preserve the jobs of about 240 Hovensa refinery workers when the Texas-based subcontractor they worked for was replaced by Triangle Construction and Maintenance. At the time of the transfer, there were concerns that the local workers would be replaced by imported labor brought in from the U.S. mainland.

Prior to that — in 1999 — Joseph led the civilian staff at the Virgin Islands Police Department through an effort for better workplace conditions. And, in 2002, the Steelworkers leader helped resolve a strike involving workers at Innovative Communications.

“He was a fierce champion of the rights of the working men and women, and was instrumental in shaping the pillars and building the foundation of organized labor locally,” said Democratic Party Chairwoman Carol Burke in her condolence message issued Thursday.

Joseph held the title of Steelworkers subdistrict director until his retirement. Plaskett credited him for supporting her first Congressional campaign and his continued support through her years of service. Although the delegate also mentioned the verbal jabs she suffered from Joseph and the late labor leader Luis “Tito” Morales during the days when they sat on opposite sides of the negotiating table.

“I enjoyed being jointly — affectionately — challenged, badgered, and harassed by him and Tito Morales … As can happen in the practice of law, when you find worthy competitors, it breeds mutual respect and oftentimes friendships,” Plaskett said.

Those who paused to acknowledge his passing expressed condolences for Joseph’s wife, Amy, other relatives, and members of his swimming group.

Funeral services are pending.

Averil Gwenette Smith Dies

Mat Probasco
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Averil Gwenette Smith Dies

With deep love and profound sorrow, we announce passing of Averil Gwenette Smith on Sept. 15, 2025. 

Averil Gwenette Smith

She is survived by Husband Raymond A. Smith; Children: Orville Webster, Alvery Smith, Casey Smith, Shermon Smith; Grandchildren: Leon Pennyfeather, Jilyssa Smith Cross, Alonte Smith, Lorenz Smith Brothers-in-Law Conrad Hodge, Sheridan Smith, Burnet Hodge, Kennedy Hodge; Sisters-insLaw Shirley Hodge Ryan, Marcia Hodge, Eglantine Vanterpool; Daughter-in-laws: Patricia Webster, Nicole Smith, Ana Cristina Garcia; Great-Grandchildren: Leandra Pennyfeather, Kayla Pennyfeather, Daken Pennyfeather, Phoenix Pennyfeather, Jaylyn Cross; Extended Children: John Garcia, Tristan Montalvo, Tony Samuel; Extended Grandchildren: Taj Alexander Garcia, Matteo Corralez, Antonio Samuel, Jr.

Funeral service will be held on  Oct. 5 Philadelphia SDA Church #5 Raphune Hill 

St. Thomas, VI 00802 Viewing: 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Service: 10 a.m. Internment Eastern Cemetery, Smith Bay, St. Thomas, VI 00802

Arrangements will be provided by Turnbull’s Funeral Home.

Magens Bay Authority to Commence Bath House #1 Reconstruction Project

Mat Probasco
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Magens Bay Authority to Commence Bath House #1 Reconstruction Project

The Magens Bay Authority is pleased to announce that construction on Bath House #1 will commence with mobilization beginning Sept. 29.

Magens Bay, St. Thomas, USVI (Shutterstock)

This long-awaited project is funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and awarded to Rumina Construction, LLC. Bath House #1 sustained severe damage during Hurricanes Irma and Maria in Sept. 2017, 

and its reconstruction marks a significant step in restoring and improving the park’s facilities.

“As we move forward, the Authority remains committed to ensuring that this project enhances the visitor experience while preserving access to Magens Bay,” said Monique Simon, General Manager of the Magens Bay Authority.

During construction, traffic and parking adjustments in the area may be necessary. The Authority will provide timely updates to keep the public informed of any changes.

The Magens Bay Authority kindly requests the cooperation of all patrons during this period of progress.

For additional information and updates, please contact the Magens Bay Authority at (340) 777-6300 or via email at info@magensbayauthority.org.

Sustin Alexander Donovan Dies at 59

Mat Probasco
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Sustin Alexander Donovan Dies at 59

The family of Sustin Alexander Donovan, fondly known as ‘Nun Nun’ is deeply saddened to announce his passing on August 17, 2025, in St. Thomas, at the age of 59. 

Sustin Alexander Donovan

He is survived by his children Taresha and Josiah Donovan and Kyliel Barnes, his siblings Austin ‘Jelly’ Donovan, Stephanie V.D. Homme, Winifred Lewis, Henry Petersen, and James Donovan, his late parents, Susthen Donovan and Muriel Testamark Donovan. His late sister, Colleen Donovan Lowry. And other family and friends are numerous to mention. 

A memorial service will be held on Sept. 30, at 10 a.m. at the Memorial Moravian Church – #5023 Norre Gade, Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, VI. Tributes will be between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. Interment at the Eastern Cemetery at #8 Smith Bay Road, St. Thomas.

VIWMA Temporarily Accepting Sludge and Other Wastewater

Mat Probasco
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VIWMA Temporarily Accepting Sludge and Other Wastewater

The Virgin Islands Waste Management Authority would like to inform all wastewater haulers that, due to technical issues at the Mangrove Lagoon Wastewater Treatment Plant, sludge, septage, and gray water are temporarily being accepted at the Cancryn Pump Station on St. Thomas. This service is available on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Grease will NOT be permitted. 

Virgin Islands Waste Management Authority

Haulers are reminded to adhere to all safety protocols, rules, and regulations when entering the facility. 

We understand the inconvenience this may cause and rely on your cooperation and continued patience as we work towards a permanent solution. 

For updates or further assistance, please contact the Division of Wastewater at (340) 715-9151 or Communications Management at communications@viwma.org. Stay connected with us on Facebook, X, and LinkedIn for updates.

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