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Lucias Geddian Thomas Dies at 89

Mat Probasco
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Lucias Geddian Thomas Dies at 89

In Loving Memory of Lucias Geddian Thomas
April 14, 1935 – April 5, 2025

It is with deep sorrow and love that we announce the passing of Lucias Geddian Thomas, who departed this life on April 5, 2025, just days before his 90th birthday. Born on April 14, 1935, in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Lucias lived a life full of dignity, strength, and unwavering love for his family.

Lucias will be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father, a proud grandfather, a cherished brother, and a steadfast friend. He is survived by his wife Jennie Thomas, his daughters and sons, his many grandchildren, brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws.

Lucias also leaves behind many friends, including Cutbert Alexander and Evelyn Ward, whose shared memories were a meaningful part of his journey.

A man of strength, Lucias touched countless lives through his spirit, warm smile, and willingness to help others.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Funeral arrangements will be shared with family and friends in the coming days.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.

 

Style With Love Fashion-Show Fundraiser For Nana Baby Children’s Home

Mat Probasco
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Style With Love Fashion-Show Fundraiser For Nana Baby Children’s Home

Fashion meets philanthropy at Style With Love, a dynamic fashion show fundraiser benefitting Nana Baby Children’s Home, taking place Friday, May 10, from 4–7 p.m. at the historic Hotel 1829.

The fashion show will be hosted by Shaylah Cruz (Submitted photo)

This unforgettable evening will feature runway showcases from some of the island’s most beloved local brands: Posh Boutique, D.O.P.E. World, DPMNM, Just Me Fashion, Shammie’s Boutique, and Sole to Soul. Each designer brings a unique flair, coming together to support a powerful cause—providing emergency shelter and care for children in need.

Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased through the Nana Baby Children’s Home Facebook event page, or in person at Just Me Fashion (Tutu Park Mall), Sole to Soul, and Shammie’s Boutique in town.

The event is proudly presented by Alpine Philanthropies and John Foster Real Estate, with additional generous support from Community Medical Laboratory, Yacht Haven Grande, and Merchants Commercial Bank.

All proceeds will directly benefit Nana Baby Children’s Home, which has served vulnerable youth in the Virgin Islands for over four decades. The organization is now taking bold steps to expand their impact by developing a Teen Home for youth ages 14–20, addressing a critical gap as there are currently no teen shelters on island.

“We are honored to bring the community together through creativity and compassion,” said Darian Hairston, Director of Nana Baby. “Every ticket purchased and every sponsor’s contribution is helping to create a safe haven for youth who have nowhere else to turn.”

Come dressed to impress and ready to give back—because fashion has never looked so good or meant so much.

Spirit of Craft to Spotlight Craft Distilling, Social Enterprise, and Agricultural Innovation in the Virgin Islands

Mat Probasco
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Spirit of Craft to Spotlight Craft Distilling, Social Enterprise, and Agricultural Innovation in the Virgin Islands

With rum cover-over taxes accounting for nearly 30 percent of the Virgin Islands’ economy, it’s time to spark a robust conversation about the future of the distilling industry and its local impact.

Nearly 20 trailblazing Black-owned spirits brands from across the Caribbean and mainland U.S. are coming to Frederiksted, St. Croix, to share their entrepreneurial journeys, discuss community-centered business models, and offer tastings of their award-winning products.

The Spirit of Craft – Celebration of Craft Distilleries was created to open dialogue around the distilling industry, ignite new local ownership opportunities, and explore changes that could bring direct economic benefits to the territory. The celebration centers around six core goals:

  • Empower aspiring local distillers and craftspeople with practical, accessible tools and guidance.
  • Model employee-owned business and social entrepreneurship practices promote equity and economic justice.
  • Support farmers by increasing the value of locally grown herbs, fruits, and botanicals.
  • Maximize the local impact of rum cover-over revenues by advocating for reinvestment and transparency.
  • Launch career pathways through a UVI Craft Distilling Certificate Program, hands-on apprenticeships, and investment opportunities.
  • Foster resilience and food security by linking sustainable agriculture to economic development.

No visiting founder may embody these values more fully than Lincoln Nicholson of Wait A Bit Vodka. Based in Jamaica’s Trelawny region, Wait A Bit is the country’s first Black-owned distillery. The area is known for its yellow yams, a prized agricultural product. Nicholson purchases the cut ends of harvested yams—typically discarded as waste—and transforms them into a premium vodka, creating income for farmers and reducing waste.

In contrast, the Territory’s two major distillers—Diageo (Captain Morgan) and Beam Suntory (Cruzan Rum)—are international corporations that do not source local agricultural inputs. Molasses used in their production is imported from Honduras, Guatemala, and the Dominican Republic. By 2035, the Virgin Islands will have spent nearly $1 billion on imported molasses to support these operations.

The Spirit of Craft event invites community members to engage in bold conversations about local ownership, sustainable farming, and economic empowerment. From employee-owned business models to modern farming practices, this festival reimagines a more sustainable, locally rooted distilling industry for the Virgin Islands.

Guests can expect tastings from visiting distillers, a curated marketplace of local artisans and vendors, live demonstrations in the newly restored Prosperity Farm Distillery Farmhouse (formerly Plantation Nightclub), and hands-on workshops.

Learn to make your own moonshine or mango brandy. Kids will enjoy tractor pull rides and Jungle James’ petting zoo. Entertainment includes quadrille dancing, Rising Stars Steel Band, Baz N’ Dem, Los Maestros, and the Craft Cocktail Mixology competition.

The evening culminates with a concert under the stars from 6–9 p.m. featuring legendary jazz drummer Dion Parson & The 21st Century Band with special guests. Opening act: St. Croix’s own, The Troublemakers.

Admission: One canned food item per person, benefiting My Brother’s Table. Adults 18+ can purchase a $20 wristband on-site for full access to tastings and cocktails. Wristband proceeds will help launch UVI’s Craft Distilling Certificate and Apprenticeship Program.

 

Albert Sibilly Dies at 74

Mat Probasco
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Albert Sibilly Dies at 74

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Albert Sibilly, a devoted member of our community, who departed this life on May 2, 2025. Born on October 7, 1951, to Cecile and Emile Sibilly, Albert lived a life marked by quiet strength, unwavering dedication, and a tireless work ethic that helped shape the very fabric of our town.

Albert Sibilly

With the tools of his trade and the kindness in his heart, Albert made a difference every single day—touching the lives of those around him through his actions and presence. 

Family, friends, and loved ones are invited to join in honoring his memory on Tuesday, May 13, at 10 a.m. in Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church. Interment will be at Sea.

All Boats will be departing for the burial at sea at 1 p.m.

Albert’s legacy of compassion and hard work lives on in all who had the privilege of knowing him.

List of Survivors his wife, Julia A Sibilly; Siblings: Clara Bryan, Laura Bryan, Clorien Overcast and Bernard Sibilly; Children: Nicole Polo, Lynn Sibilly and Eric Wilson; Grandchildren: Ariel Emile Turnbull, Kasey Sibilly, Deanna Henry, Elijah Bailey, Jacob Hoffmann and Marley Wilson; Nephews: Milton Sibilly, Ashley Bryan, Marvin Bryan, Glenn Bryan, Kelvin Bryan and Juarez Morgan; Nieces: Tesha Koltys, Elisa Bryan and Jessica Mora and Aunt, Clementine Bryan.

Arrangements Entrusted to Turnbull’s Funeral Home & Crematory Services. 

New Solar Farm to Power Sustainability, Innovation, and Workforce Development

Mat Probasco
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New Solar Farm to Power Sustainability, Innovation, and Workforce Development

The University of the Virgin Islands Research and Technology Park and The University of the Virgin Islands celebrated a major milestone on May 5, 2025, breaking ground on the UVI RTPark Solar Farm and Teaching Array — a SPARK Project.

(Submitted photo)

Hosted at UVI RTPark’s 64 West Center headquarters on the University’s Albert A. Sheen Campus, the ceremony marked the launch of an ambitious and collaborative effort to strengthen energy resilience, build a future-ready workforce, and promote sustainable economic growth across the U.S. Virgin Islands. The solar farm is a flagship project under the S.P.A.R.K. Initiative (Strategic Projects for Advanced Resilience and Knowledge) — a broader effort aimed at preparing Virgin Islanders for careers of the future by integrating clean energy infrastructure with education and workforce development.

The solar farm replaces a previous rooftop array that was damaged during Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017. Funded through a FEMA 406 Hazard Mitigation Grant (Disaster #4340DR | Damage #311893) and supported by the Office of Disaster Recovery, the new ground-mounted system is designed to reduce reliance on fossil fuels while also minimizing risk from future storms. The project directly aligns with UVI’s broader Energy Management Strategy, which targets a 60% reduction in fossil fuel use across the institution. Estimated completion for the solar farm is August 2026.

As part of this transformative project, UVI RTPark is spearheading the development of a one-acre, 423kW, state-of-the-art, ground-mounted, WAPA-interactive solar farm on the west side of the 64 West Center—a shared facility that houses both the UVI RTPark headquarters and the laboratories for UVI’s College of Science and Mathematics. This collaborative space reflects the powerful intersection of innovation, research, and education. The new solar installation is designed to serve as a regional model—demonstrating not only the practical and profitable potential of solar energy, but also the territory’s capacity to lead in sustainable development and climate resilience.

“This project demonstrates how strategic partnerships between the RTPark and UVI can drive meaningful change by integrating renewable energy solutions with workforce development,” said Eric Sonnier, Executive Director of the UVI RTPark. “We are not only reducing our carbon footprint but also creating hands-on learning opportunities that will equip UVI students with the skills needed to thrive in the green economy. Ultimately, it is about empowering the next generation of innovators and ensuring a resilient future for the Virgin Islands.”

As part of the project’s educational component, and in partnership with UVI’s Caribbean Green Technology Center (CGTC), local contractor VOLT Energy, LLC will also construct a 2kW modular teaching array for student use. The full installation process will be integrated into the curriculum of UVI’s new Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Renewable Energy Technology (RET) creating a dynamic “living lab” experience where students can gain in-demand technical skills in system monitoring, installation, and clean energy innovation.

“The solar farm will serve as a critical hands-on lab for our students in the Renewable Energy Technology program,” said Dr. Gregory Guannel, Director of the CGTC. “This kind of immersive learning is essential—not only to prepare students for careers in the green energy sector, but to ensure that the territory has the skilled professionals needed to build a more sustainable and resilient future.”

“At UVI, student success is at the heart of our mission, and projects like the UVI RTPark Solar Farm are integral to our GRAND Momentum strategic vision,” added Dr. Safiya George, President of the University of the Virgin Islands. “By investing in innovative STEM-based learning opportunities, we are preparing our students to lead in industries that are vital to our region’s resilience and sustainability. We are proud to collaborate with the Research and Technology Park in creating a talent pipeline that will power the future of the Virgin Islands and beyond.”

The UVI RTPark Solar Farm and Teaching Array is one of three core components of the SPARK Initiative:

1.UVI RTPark Solar Farm and Teaching Array – A 423kW solar installation coupled with a modular teaching array for workforce training.

2.Living Lab: Resilient Buildings Workforce Development Program – Student interns will benchmark building energy performance at RTPark and recommend efficiency improvements using industry standards.

3.Resilient UVI Project – Led by the University, this effort will include ASHRAE Level 2 energy audits and energy monitoring system installations in 40 campus buildings to reduce utility costs and support long-term sustainability.

This milestone marks just the beginning of a bold vision for collaborative development. As the UVI RTPark and UVI continue to align academic innovation with infrastructure investment, the territory moves one step closer to becoming a regional leader in sustainability, workforce readiness, and economic resilience.

Project Partners:

University of the Virgin Islands (UVI)

UVI Research and Technology Park (UVI RTPark)

UVI Caribbean Green Technology Center (CGTC)

Contractor: VOLT Energy, LLC

Funding Source: FEMA 406 Hazard Mitigation Grant, supported by the Office of Disaster Recovery

About the UVI RTPark

The University of the Virgin Islands Research and Technology Park (UVI RTPark) is a specialized economic development organization committed to attracting and supporting technology and knowledge-based businesses in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Through incentive programs, strategic partnerships, and workforce initiatives, RTPark strengthens the region’s innovation economy and creates sustainable community impact.

Eulie Rolle Dies at 87

Mat Probasco
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Eulie Rolle Dies at 87

It is with bitter-sweet feelings that the family of Ms. Eulie Rolle announces her departure from this earthly realm on Tuesday, April 29, 2025. She was 87 years old. A native of St. Joseph, Dominica, Ms. Eulie had been  residing in St.Thomas.for the past 40 years.

Eulie Rolle

She is survived by her 10 children: Michael Dorrinstan Robere George, Dorie George-Elwin, Delon Nicholas, Agnes Dorcas Nicholas, Frances Ingrid Nicholas-Lindsey, Candia Rolle, Dean Vertie Rolle, Lance Daniel Rolle, Hunt Hilton Rolle and Chase Rolle. 

Twenty-three grandchildren: Malika George – Browne, Michael George Jr., Chad Elwin, Delston, Delian, Delon Jr., Dequina, and Delisia Nicholas, Ken-Anthony Adams, Minoka Nugent, Markis, and Monic Lindsey, Mia Johnson; Kishma Rolle, Anisha Emanuel, Dean Jr., Racquel, Devin, Masrai, Marrisa, Nayah, Matthew, and Amina Rolle. 

Eighteen great-grandchildren: Shyar, Daelah, Kayla, Nairi, M’Kell-Anthony, Ke’Nari, Kenyari, Masyn, Miracle, Molli, Jubilee, Holiday, Kalani, Semira, Jayden, AJ, JJ, and SJ. 

Brother: Angelo Joseph; Sisters: Sylvia Joseph, Emaline Denis, Sonia Jones, and Rosamond Jones. 

Nieces and Nephews: Augustus, Freddy, Vincia, Annette, Petula, Naomie, Andy, Verna, Claxston, Gladys, Sonjah, Eddie, Earl, Vilma, Diana, and Deborah. 

Daughters-in-law: Angela Nicholas, Eurina, Maudry, Sylvia, and Josephine Rolle. 

Cousins and other relatives: Merlyn Bruno-Vidal and Family, Nashaly Rouse, Lloyd Brade, The King Family, and Serrant Family, other precious family members too numerous to mention. Special friends: Milly, Martina, Carrol, Matindale, Dano, and others, also too numerous to mention.

The 1st viewing is on Thursday, May 15 from 4-6 p.m. at Turnbull Funeral Home ,the 2nd  viewing from 9-10 a.m. Funeral Mass will be held on Friday May 16 at Holy Family Catholic Church in Hidden Valley (Tutu) at 10 a.m.. Interment will be at the Eastern Cemetery, Smith Bay. Funeral arrangement by Turnbull Funeral Home and Crematory Services

Charles Leon Wheatley Jr. Dies at 67

Mat Probasco
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Charles Leon Wheatley Jr. Dies at 67

It is with solemn reverence that we announce the passing of Charles Leon Wheatley Jr., affectionately known as “Ace” and “Bucky,” who departed this life on April 15, 2025, at the age of 67. Born on Jan. 31, 1958, and raised in Oswald Harris Court, St. Thomas, Charles was a cherished brother, uncle, cousin, and friend whose presence enriched the lives of many with his warmth, wisdom, and unwavering support.

Charles was preceded in death by his devoted parents, Charles Leon Wheatley Sr. and Florecia Emelda Wheatley; his brother Roy “De Eye” Wheatley; his nephew Ajani L. Wheatley; and his niece Katarina E. DeVaux.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and memories cherished by his siblings: (Sisters) Bernice A. Denbow, Lorna D. Wheatley, Christine P. Greaux, Kathleen E. DeVaux, Aileen R. Wheatley, and Jenise A. Wheatley-Roberts; (Brothers) Milton E. Wheatley Sr., Oral E. Wheatley, and Dean A. Wheatley Sr.

His memory will also live on through a host of nieces and nephews who adored him, including Kareem M. Daniel Sr., Jerome C. Farley Jr., Makeem E. Rhymer, Deaniquo A. Wheatley, Jabari C. Wheatley, Meleek A. Sylvester, Khalfani Williams, Kareem M. Daniel Jr., Alicia D. Dalmida-Cobb, Bernice A. Denbow-Arnold, Diana R. Martin, Joanna C. Farley, Michelle M. Pitts, Deaniqua A. Wheatley, Moniqua F. Wheatley, Shaniqua E. Wheatley, Lea’Yah Dalmida, Denajha Lettsome, Destiny M. Philip, Da’Laiya A. Tonge, MaKayla Guishard, Linda Maduro, Shaneel Farley and many more to numerous to mention.

Charles was known for his quick wit, generous heart, and magnetic personality. He was a true pillar in his community, always offering a helping hand or a word of encouragement. His legacy will live on in the stories shared, the laughter remembered, and the countless lives he touched.

Funeral Services will be held at Dan Hurley Home for Funerals and Cremation Centers in St. Thomas. A first viewing is scheduled for Monday, May 12, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., with a second viewing on Tuesday, May 13, from 9 p.m. to 10 p.m., followed by the funeral service at 10 a.m. Interment: Eastern Cemetery, Funeral arrangements are under the care of Dan Hurley Home for Funerals and Cremation Centers of St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix. For online condolences or to share a special memory visit www.hurleydavisfuneralhome.com 

Charles will be laid to rest in the Veterans section of the Eastern Cemetery in Smith Bay, a space dedicated to honoring Virgin Islands Veterans.

He will be deeply missed but never forgotten. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Final Performances in the VIDE Spring 2025 School Concert Series

Mat Probasco
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Final Performances in the VIDE Spring 2025 School Concert Series

The Virgin Islands Department of Education’s Division of Music Education & Programs invites the public to attend the final concerts of the Spring 2025 School Concert Series. Come out and enjoy vibrant performances from our talented students and dedicated music educators as they showcase their hard work, musical growth, and passion for the arts!

Remaining concert dates and locations:

$10 Adults | $5 Students

May 7

Yvonne Milliner Bowsky Elementary School – Cafeteria, 9 a.m. 

Joseph Gomez Elementary School – BCB Auditorium, 6 p.m.

May 14

St. Croix Educational Complex – Auditorium, 7 p.m.

Plaskett and Bolques Celebrate Agriculture Grants

Mat Probasco
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Plaskett and Bolques Celebrate Agriculture Grants

For the past two years, Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett and her team have actively worked with the St. Croix Farmers in Action (FIA) group to assist with the acquisition of funding for a sustainable water source for local farmers. During the Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24) appropriations process, FIA submitted a Community Project Funding (CPF) request to rehabilitate water infrastructure on Estate Bethlehem and were subsequently approved for $1 million dollars in community project funding, of which FIA would have to provide a non-federal match of $250,000.

(Right to left) FIA volunteer Tralice Bracy, Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett, FIA Board member Paulette Edwards, FIA Board member Tahemah Edwards, Representatives from Senator Angel Bolques’s office – Judy Torres and Marcellino Ventura (Submitted photo)

FIA’s plans to rehabilitate Estate Bethlehem’s water infrastructure include an existing 1-million-gallon cistern on the Bethlehem Sugar Factory Site. This funding is critical as the cistern restoration would help fulfill the needs of farms and businesses whose economic success depends upon a consistent water source to maintain farmland. Within the past year, FIA faced significant challenges in providing the required funding match and requested assistance from the Congresswoman and her team.

Kareem Edwards, FIA board member shared, “FIA extends heartfelt gratitude for Congresswoman Plaskett’s unwavering advocacy and support of our organization and the broader agricultural community in the Virgin Islands. Thanks to Congresswoman Plaskett and her team’s dedicated efforts, we were able to secure the necessary USDA waiver to rehabilitate the million-gallon cistern on the island—a vital step toward strengthening our water infrastructure and enhancing the resilience of our farming operations. The Congresswoman’s commitment to championing the needs of St. Croix’s farmers continues to make a meaningful and lasting impact.”

Another FIA board member, Tahemah Edwards shared the following, “St. Croix Farmers in Action thanks the Honorable Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett and her staff for their vision, dedication, and collaboration in making the Bethlehem Sugar Factory Restoration site a reality. I would also like to thank Kareem Edwards, Tralice Bracy and the St. Croix Farmers in Action board of directors for their lobbying efforts.”

“This outcome is the result of true collaboration,” said Senator Angel Bolques, whose office provided a letter of support to the U.S. Department of Agriculture in pursuit of the waiver. “Our office worked closely with our Honorable Congresswoman Plaskett and her office, St. Croix Farmers in Action, USDA, and VIEDA—exploring every possible funding solution to help overcome the financial barriers to assist with securing this vital waiver. I’m so proud to have contributed to this effort and remain committed to supporting initiatives that strengthen our agricultural infrastructure and empower our farmers.”

“I am tremendously pleased that FIA has received a waiver of the match that USDA-Rural Development (USDA-RD) originally required to access the funding provided to rehabilitate existing cistern infrastructure to support the farmers of St. Croix,” said Congresswoman Plaskett. “I commend FIA and the board members, led by Tahemah Edwards and his nephew, Kareem Edwards, for their diligence and perseverance in pursuit of agricultural development and advocacy for St. Croix farmers. I would also like to thank the Senator Angel Bolques and his team for their advocacy and presence on FIA’s behalf.

“USDA-RD’s decision to waive the match, particularly during this political climate speaks well of our ability to galvanize our efforts in order to get things done for our territory.”

 

Larsen PreK-8 School Dismissing at Noon Because of Water Outage 

Mat Probasco
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Larsen PreK-8 School Dismissing at Noon Because of Water Outage 

The Virgin Islands Department of Education informs parents and guardians that Pearl B. Larsen PreK-8 School on St. Croix will have an early dismissal at 12 p.m. on Tuesday, May 6, due to a water service interruption impacting the surrounding area.

All students will be provided with lunch prior to dismissal. Transportation will be provided for students who utilize the school bus service. Parents and guardians are kindly asked to make the necessary arrangements to pick up their child(ren) at 12 p.m.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work to ensure the health and safety of all students and staff.

For updates, please continue to monitor official VIDE communication channels.

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