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‘Gods of the Universe: Rise of the Star Child’: Set for the Caribbean Premiere by Local Filmmaker

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‘Gods of the Universe: Rise of the Star Child’: Set for the Caribbean Premiere by Local Filmmaker
Filmmaker Cathy SitaRam, writer, director, and producer of “Gods of the Universe: Rise of the Star Child,” celebrates the sci-fi short’s premiere at the Trinidad & Tobago Film Festival. (Photo courtesy Cathy SitaRam)

“Gods of the Universe: Rise of the Star Child” will make its Caribbean debut at the Trinidad & Tobago Film Festival with special Storytime screenings designed for family audiences. The film will be shown on Saturday, Sept. 27, at 10 a.m. at the IMAX Cinema, and again on Sunday, Sept. 28, at 10 a.m. at the 4DX Cinema.

Local filmmaker Cathy SitaRam wrote, directed and produced the sci-fi film. She is also one of the cast.

The Trinidad & Tobago Film Festival celebrates films from and about the Caribbean and its diaspora through a flagship annual festival, a Carnival film series, and a UK-based screening series, as well as other year-round screenings. TTFF also seeks to nurture the growth of Caribbean cinema by offering a wide-ranging industry program and networking opportunities.

 

 

 

Film Details:

Director: Cathy SitaRam

Language: English

Country: Trinidad and Tobago

Year: 2024

Genre: Adventure

Length: Short

Runtime: 20 minutes

Cast: Nickolai Salceso, Zane Foster, Genesis Belgrove, Cathy SitaRam

Synopsis: Advanced beings must train star children to guide humanity to the next stage of evolution before a catastrophic event destroys Earth, but their methods differ and time is running out.

“Gods of the Universe: Rise of the Star Child” is celebrated at the annual TTFF in the sci-fi category. Writer, producer, director Cathy SitaRam had a [REM] dream some 10 years ago, which manifested in this sci-fi film. SitaRam began to write and rewrite the film story over the past decade until she was satisfied with the outcome. It was a “labor of love” for the artist. She was grounded in the significance of the theme and her passion drove her to continue through three different crews.

SitaRam was born in Trinidad to Trinidadian parents and was raised by them on St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands. She studied radio, TV, and film at the University of Maryland and minored in theater. She studied advanced film/TV writing classes at the University of Southern California and worked as a broadcast journalist in Los Angeles. SitaRam continued as a journalist in the U.S. Virgin Islands. She later migrated to Trinidad when, at the time, the Trinidad & Tobago Film Company was seeking projects to fund. She submitted her film. They liked it and helped a lot in structuring the film, she said. They began work on it in 2016 to write, develop, and shoot it. The film’s final cut was made in 2024.

“I think this is what I was put here to do,” SitaRam said of the sci-fi theme of her work. “I’ve done some documentaries and commercials and produced loads of news segments, documentary TV shows, and other short live-action films. This is my first sci-fi film and it has given me more joy, more of a feeling of purpose than all the others,” SitaRam expressed with a jubilant sound in her voice.

That jubilance is echoed in the critiques offered by several of Sitaram’s audience at the film festivals where “Gods” was screened. The film garnered numerous awards and credits at the following events:

Southern Shorts Awards; Black Writers Weekend Pitch Fest; Charlotte Black Film Festival; Kwanzaa Film Festival; Trinidad & Tobago Film Company; United Nations World Space Week; Denton Black Film Festival; and the People’s Film Festival.

The Trinidad and Tobago film festival is a film festival in the Anglophone Caribbean. The festival was initially conceived in 2005 by film historian, academic, and producer Bruce Paddington, with the unique intention of showing only Caribbean films. This remains the festival’s purpose today, which takes place annually in Trinidad and Tobago. The festival will run Sept. 24-30, with 88 films from 20 countries.

For more information:
sitaramstudios.tv
sitaramstudios@gmail.com
ttfilmfestival.com
@ttfilmfestival

St. Croix Man Identified After Being Found Unresponsive in Roadway

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St. Croix Man Identified After Being Found Unresponsive in Roadway

A 25-year-old man was found lying unresponsive in the roadway early Wednesday morning in La Grande Princess, St. Croix and was later pronounced dead at the scene, the V.I. Police Department reported.

At 3:38 a.m., the 911 Emergency Call Center received a report of a male lying motionless on Northside Road (Route 75) near Princess Health Center. Officers from the Traffic Investigation Bureau and Emergency Medical Services responded and confirmed the man was unresponsive. EMS personnel pronounced him dead shortly after their arrival, according to the police report.

The man was identified by a family member as Ras-I Hendrickson, the police report stated.

The Traffic Investigation Bureau is investigating the circumstances of the incident. Anyone with information is asked to call 911 or Crime Stoppers VI at 800-222-8477.

Oscar Alejandro Hernandez-Correa Dies at 87

Mat Probasco
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Oscar Alejandro Hernandez-Correa Dies at 87

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our dad, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Oscar (Larry) Alejandro Hernandez-Correa, on Sept.17, 2025, in Ocala, Florida. Oscar was born in Fajardo, Puerto Rico, on Jan. 8, 1938, to Oscar and Juanita Hernandez.

Oscar (Larry) Alejandro Hernandez-Correa

Oscar worked for many years at First Federal Savings and Loan (FirstBank) in St. Thomas and in Puerto Rico before retiring and becoming a stockbroker. Everyone who knew Oscar knew his love for animals. He was also passionate about boating and playing sports. In later years, he enjoyed traveling.

Oscar is survived by his daughters, Kim (Michael) Zbiegien, Kathy (William) Tervo, Sue (Carlos) Leiva, Jennifer (Leo) Sibilly, Sally (Robert) Gatlin, Nitza Agrait, and Ada (Tim) Rossmeissl. He has 12 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be at a later date in Puerto Rico.

Worldwide Day of Play! Free at Virgin Islands Children’s Museum

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Worldwide Day of Play! Free at Virgin Islands Children’s Museum

Join the Virgin Islands Children’s Museum for a day of FREE – GRATIS – GRATUIT family fun during the Worldwide Day of Play on Sept. 27. From 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., the children’s museum will be filled with cultural demonstrations, hands-on learning activities, performance art, traditional games, and more at the Buccaneer Mall location in St. Thomas.

VI Children’s Museum Day of Play 2024 Kids at Slime Science Station. (Submitted photo)

This exciting event is part of Nickelodeon’s Our World initiative, encouraging kids to dream big and make a difference. With support from Nickelodeon and the Association of Children’s Museums, the Virgin Islands Children’s Museum is joining over 360 museums around the world to inspire the next generation via play on the same day! See the map of participating museums at: https://childrensmuseums.org/dayofplay/

Thanks to charitable contributions from local sponsors including 340 Real Estate Co LLC, Jammin Jeep Tours LLC, Marjorie Roberts PC, Self-Insurance Consultants, Inc., Stout Realty LLC, and Tree Limin Extreme, the Virgin Islands Children’s Museum is able to open its doors to all visitors free of charge for this worldwide community event!

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to participate in educational demonstrations and performance art from community partners including:

– AskaHomer Wellness: Offering a playful yoga and meditation session for kids of all ages and abilities.

– DPNR Fish and Wildlife: Hosting a fishing game and setting up a vivarium with various species.

– Family Resource Center: Providing information and resources for families.

– GRROE USVI Mangroves: Bringing a mangrove planting station and hands-on outreach demonstrations.

– JS Therapies: Showcasing Sunny Jr, their therapy bus, and providing information about their services.

– Kcartcreations: Drawing technique with a local artist, published comic book author/illustrator, and certified art therapist, Karim Callwood.

– MLB School of Dance: Featuring Baby Ballerinas performing solos.

– Nikki Creations: Offering temporary tattoos and henna at low cost.

– The Book Stop: Facilitating book related crafts for kids. 

– The Concrete Bloom Organization: Hosting activities centered around planting seeds of hope and healing.

– Fun with Guitar: Playing music, singing, and playing guitar.

– Virgin Islands EPSCoR/Virgin Islands Marine Advisory Service: Providing sensory-based environmental education activities.

– Virgin Islands Next Generation Network (viNGN): Demonstrating how the internet works with a hands-on component.

– WTJX: Sharing information about PBS and providing PBS “play pad” handheld games.

– Slime Science: Learn a family-friendly recipe for making slime and enjoy slime sensory play.

– Teen Time: Participate in logic-building social games led by mathematicians from the University of the Virgin Islands.

– Gabby’s Dollhouse MEOWseum Discovery Days activities: Offering crafts, scavenger hunts, selfie stations, and more.

Performance Schedule Performance Art Performance Type Duration (minutes)
10:30 AM Trevonne Homer Kids Yoga 15 – 30
11:30AM 12:30PM 2PM Guitar Sing Along with Stephanie &/or Andrew Guitar Sing Along 15
1:00 PM Shen Dragon Dojo Martial Arts Demonstration 30
3:00 PM MLB School of Dance Ballet & Modern Dance Demonstration 30

Attendees will also have the opportunity to explore many of the regular exhibits on the museum showroom floor, providing a full day of interactive learning and discovery.

“Thanks to the generous support of local businesses, many children, including those from low-income families, will have the opportunity to step into a world created just for them, free from financial barriers,” said Amber McCammon, VICM Chief Executive Officer. “It’s a place where local culture and curiosity is celebrated, imagination is nurtured, and children discover that anything is possible.”

Other local businesses and philanthropists are encouraged to support the Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Arts and Humanities, Mathematics (STREAM) based informal education exhibits, programs, and opportunities provided by the Virgin Islands Children’s Museum.

For event details, sponsorship opportunities, or to view highlights from last year’s celebration, visit www.vichildrensmuseum.org/dayofplay or contact the VICM at: info@vichildrensmuseum.org. Don’t miss this opportunity for a day of family fun and learning at the Virgin Islands Children’s Museum! #OurWorldPlays

WAPA Enhances Customer Communication with New Phone Alert System 

Mat Probasco
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WAPA Enhances Customer Communication with New Phone Alert System 

The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority is rolling out a new automated phone notification system to keep customers informed about their utility accounts. Starting Thursday, Sept. 25, customers may receive phone messages providing important information about their account status, including past due notices.

(Shutterstock image)

WAPA emphasizes that these calls will not come from a live person and are for informational purposes only. No payment will be requested during these calls. Customers should remain vigilant and not provide personal or financial information to anyone claiming to collect payment over the phone, as scams continue to be a concern worldwide.

“Keeping our customers informed is a top priority,” said WAPA Chief Information Officer Julius Aubain. “This new notification system allows us to reach customers quickly and efficiently. Remember, WAPA will never reach out to you to request payment over the phone and that only official channels should be used to make payments.”

Customers are encouraged to manage their account contact information through WAPA’s website www.viwapa.vi and only submit payment through official channels as seen below:

  • Online: Visit www.viwapa.vi and click “Pay Your Bill Online” in the top right corner.
  • By Phone: Call 340-774-3552 or 340-773-2250, then select Option 3.
  • Drop Box: Submit payments via money order or check at any WAPA business center.
  • Kiosk: Self-service kiosks accept cash, checks, and credit card payments at WAPA business centers.
  • Local Bank: Visit a branch of First Bank, Banco Popular, or the Bank of St. Croix to make your payment.

For more information, please contact WAPA directly with any questions or concerns at customer.service@viwapa.vi

Henry O. Smith Sr. Dies

Mat Probasco
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Henry O. Smith Sr. Dies

It is with great sadness that the family of Henry O. Smith Sr, affectionately known as “Smitty” or “Hen”, announces his passing on Monday, September 8, 2025.  He died peacefully, surrounded by family and friends.

Henry O. Smith Sr.

He is survived by his wife, Marion “Goldie” Smith, Five children: Barbara Smith-Sorhaindo, Sheryl Nelson, Henry Smith, Jr., Robert Smith and Marcia Smith-Anderson

Sons-in-law: Jeremiah Sorhaindo, Cuthbert Nelson.

Grandchildren: Stephen Blake and Dorothy Lloyd, Jason/Kalyn Nelson, Rhonda Williams, Justin Nelson, Ashley Smith, Destiny Smith, Grace Smith.

Great-grandchildren: Li-Hron Williams, Kemori Liburd, De-Mahri Williams-DeCastro, Sienna Blake and Stephen Blake, Jr.

Aunt/Uncle: Ethlyn Hodge, Wendall and Israel Thomas

Siblings: Annette “Nettie” Smith, Lydia L. Ells, Nerbert Smith, Alicia Smith Temlong, Alwon E. Smith, Alena Smith Rouse, Beverly I Smith, Eli Nibbs

In-laws: Eileen Smith, Shelly Schneider Smith, Paulette Smith, Michael/Muriel Blyden-Rhymer, Aubrey/Eria Raymond, L. Patrice Raymond

Host of loving nieces, nephews and cousins

Special thanks:

Caregivers: Mandisa Browne and Karen Leon, Consortium Care VI, Nurse Shasta, Turnbull’s Funeral Home & Crematory

Services:

St. Thomas Memoriam (Informal): 

Thursday, September 25th, 3:00 pm to 6:00pm

Emmanuel Baptist Church

Anna’s Retreat, St. Thomas, USVI

 

Tortola, BVI Funeral Service: 

Saturday, September 27th at 10:00 am

New Life Baptist Church (BVI)

Tortola VG1110, BVI

Wednesday Storm Closes Most Government Offices

Mat Probasco
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Rain may not stop the Carnival, but Wednesday’s weather had almost all public-facing Virgin Islands government offices shuttered until the storm passes. Most offices indicated they would reopen Thursday.

Public schools and the University of the Virgin Islands were closed Wednesday. The territorial courts and Department of Justice were closed. The Department of Health and Human Services closed. VITRAN service was suspended.

The Legislature was closed as well, with Senate Vice President Kenneth L. Gittens urging Virgin Islanders to be careful.

“Given our community’s recent experience with torrential rain and flooding just last week, I fully support the Executive Branch’s decision to close all public schools and government offices,” Gittens said. “Essential employees are advised to contact their respective agency heads for guidance, as they may be required to report for critical services. I want to stress, this is not a cause for alarm. This is about being prepared.”

The Board of Elections’ ever-lively Grievance & Resolution Committee meeting was postponed. The Economic Development Authority offices were closed and the Public Service Commission meeting was postponed.

In a twist, the Virgin Islands Waste Management Authority issued a statement saying it would continue normal operations.

Allisyn Dedinsky Dies at 51

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Allisyn Dedinsky Dies at 51

Allisyn Dedinsky, 51, of St. Croix, Virgin Islands, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at her home in the Delray Beach, Florida, area with her loving partner, Daniel T. Mugavero, at her side.

Allisyn was preceded in death by her parents, Bonnie L. Dedinsky and Joseph D. Dedinsky, and her sister, Jill Marie Dedinsky. She is survived by her nephew, Jay Ridgway, and a wide circle of friends who loved her dearly and will cherish her memory.

Allisyn Dedinsky

Allisyn Dedinsky had no middle name. Her mother, Bonnie, thought that there were enough syllables in her first and last names, so she didn’t need another one. Allisyn’s college roommates even made up a song about it. And just like her big name, Allisyn’s presence was so tremendous that she made friends wherever she went. She was full of charm and sunshine.

Allisyn was born on October 23, 1973, in Indiana, where she lived until her family relocated to St. Croix, in the U.S. Virgin Islands. She was a graduate of St. Croix Country Day School (now Good Hope Country Day School) where she was a valuable member of the varsity volleyball and softball teams. Allisyn was a natural athlete, as well as a natural leader, organizing spirit events, prom committees, and beach days. 

After graduating with the class of 1992, Allisyn joined the Alpha Delta Pi sorority at North Carolina State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication. During summer breaks from college, Allisyn served as the swim counselor for Country’s Day’s summer camp, paving the way for her early career as a teacher. She soon followed in her sister’s footsteps, finding her calling in the hospitality industry. 

Allisyn will be remembered for her infectious laugh, love of the song “Alison” by Elvis Costello, and legendary parties.

Information about a future celebration of life will be forthcoming.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Allisyn’s honor to the St. Croix Animal Welfare Center at stcroixawc.org.

Louis B. Taylor, Jr. Dies at 76

Mat Probasco
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Louis B. Taylor, Jr. Dies at 76

With deep love and profound sorrow, we announce the passing of Louis B. Taylor, Jr., who was born on September 12, 1949, and peacefully departed this life on his birthday, September 12, 2025.

Louis B. Taylor, Jr.

Louis touched countless lives through his music, teaching, and devotion to family and community. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 15, at 9 a.m. at the University of the Virgin Islands Elridge Blake Sports and Fitness Center.

He is survived by:

Wife: Michele L. McClean-Taylor

Children: Louis B Taylor III  Moné Taylor, Safiya Taylor

Grandchildren: Taylor Pryce

Son-in-Law: Steve Shore

Siblings: Roy Stephens Sr, Lloyd “Phonso” Stephens Sr, Geraldine Georges

Sister-in-Law: Maxwell Georges, Sharon Adams-Taylor,  Mary Williams, Leona Stephens, Laura Velinor, Rachel McClean, Jason McClean, Jermaine McClean, Roy McClean, Rudolph McClean

Nieces and Nephews: Gerald Stephens, Roy Stephens Jr, Olanzo Stephens, Leonard Stephens, Lloyd Stephens Jr, Lisa Stephens,  Aja Taylor, Ife Taylor

Cousins: Jacqueline Lewis, Leticia Duncan, Kayavril Duncan-Smalls, Ruslin Rabsatt, Ismay “Girly” Powell,  Franky “Jimmy” Powell, Gorda Dorfleet, Gilbert Hendricks, Valentino Hendricks, Dr Linda Thomas, Diane George, Dr. Cleve Dawson, Barbara Marks, Dale Duncan, Carlton Duncan, Cecil Henley.

And many more family and friends.

We invite all who knew and loved Louis to join us in celebrating his remarkable life and honoring his memory.

Arrangements will be provided by Turnbull’s Funeral Home.

Committee Advances UVI Retirement Carve-Out, Rejects Local Materials Bill Over Federal Compliance Concerns

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Committee Advances UVI Retirement Carve-Out, Rejects Local Materials Bill Over Federal Compliance Concerns

Senators on the Legislature’s Committee on Government Operations, Veterans Affairs and Consumer Protection wrestled Monday with two bills that touched on core issues of workforce shortages and economic development. By the end of the hearing, they unanimously advanced a measure to help the University of the Virgin Islands attract retirees back into its ranks — but narrowly rejected a separate proposal requiring the use of locally manufactured construction materials on public projects, citing federal procurement rules and administrative challenges.

Retirees at UVI
Bill No. 36-0061, introduced by Sen. Carla J. Joseph, would allow Government Employees Retirement System (GERS) retirees to work at UVI without forfeiting their pensions, provided they enroll in a separate retirement plan. Joseph framed the measure as both a practical fix and a community investment. “This legislation is a win-win-win,” she told colleagues, pointing out that it helps experienced retirees return to service at UVI while protecting their hard-earned benefits.

GERS Administrator and CEO Angel Dawson supported the proposal, describing the fiscal impact as “essentially neutral” since the carve-out applies only to UVI and not the broader government workforce. He noted the university already has a carve-out for certain employees, and the measure would extend that flexibility to retirees.

UVI President Safiya George said the change would immediately affect three employees and help the institution recruit and retain highly qualified staff in critical areas. “By providing this flexibility, we can help secure the financial future of employees, reduce turnover, and improve recruitment efforts,” she said.

Several senators voiced strong support. Sen. Hubert L. Frederick said the bill adds value to the university without undermining GERS. “This does not harm the system. This, in fact, doesn’t do any damage whatsoever to it. Because the GERS is comfortable with this, I’m comfortable with it,” he said. Sen. Ray Fonseca called the proposal “an excellent bill” that strengthens opportunities for educators.

The committee voted unanimously to send the measure forward to the Rules and Judiciary Committee for further consideration.

Local Materials Proposal Stumbles

The debate was more divided on Bill No. 36-0102, sponsored by Sen. Marvin Blyden, which sought to require government contractors to use locally manufactured construction materials “to the greatest extent practicable” on projects funded with local or federal dollars. Blyden described the measure as a way to stimulate economic growth, encourage innovation, and strengthen resilience during disasters. “With the passing of this bill, Virgin Islanders will know that if they can produce a construction material that meets quality standards and falls within a competitive price range, they will have a market for the product,” he said.

He pointed to Puerto Rico’s decades-long local materials law and argued that the Virgin Islands could do the same. Sen. Angel Bolques, Jr. agreed, noting that other territories like Guam have enacted similar policies. “From a disaster readiness perspective, a stronger local supply chain means faster recovery,” he said.

But critics warned that the bill, while well-intentioned, could create conflicts with federal procurement standards that emphasize open competition. Procurement exper Kate Davis testified that local preference requirements could jeopardize funding for federally backed projects. “Federal compliance remains a significant concern,” she said, stressing that the authority supports the intent but must weigh affordability, quality, and compliance equally.

Property and Procurement Commissioner Lisa Alejandro and Public Works Commissioner Derek Gabriel both echoed the need for caution. Alejandro said procurement rules already require competitive strategy, and any changes must not hinder competition. Gabriel added that “we all agree with the intent” but emphasized that unintended consequences could arise if the law isn’t carefully drafted.

Sen. Alma Francis Heyliger said she supports the concept but could not vote for the bill in its current form. “I need to make sure that all I’s are dotted and all T’s are crossed before this leaves this committee,” she said. Sen. Kenneth Gittens also voted no, citing the risk of bureaucratic delays and disputes. Sen. Carla Joseph added that subject matter experts had advised her that amendments were necessary, and she deferred to their judgment.

In the end, the measure failed on a 3-3 tie, with Sens. Novelle Francis Jr., Franklin Johnson, and Avery Lewis in favor, while Francis Heyliger, Gittens, and Joseph opposed. Sen. Ray Fonseca was absent.

Next Steps
The votes highlighted the tension lawmakers face between fostering local economic development and navigating federal restrictions. While the local materials measure stalled, senators left the door open for a revised version with clearer exemptions and compliance language. Meanwhile, the UVI retirement bill moves ahead with broad support and could soon provide relief for the university’s staffing needs.

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