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Student Facing Charges After Gun Found at STT School

An Ivanna Eudora Kean High School student faces several charges after he allegedly brought marijuana and a gun to school, according to documents filed Wednesday in V.I. Superior Court on St. Thomas.

Khalid A. Warrell faces charges of carrying or using a firearm, possession of ammunition and disturbance of the peace. Bail was set at $25,000 and his arraignment is scheduled for May 30.

According to a probable cause fact sheet filed by VIPD Officer Maria Hodge, she was on duty at the school Tuesday morning when she was called to the second floor to assist Officer D. Matthew with โ€œan incident involving a student who had refused to cooperate with a routine search and was exhibiting hostile behavior.โ€

The search of the upstairs classrooms was prompted by a tip from a maintenance staff member โ€œwho reported witnessing a student dropping a pistol the previous week,โ€ the fact sheet states.

The student, later identified as Warrell, allegedly fled the classroom with his backpack, and the officers were instructed by Principal Sally Petty to stop him.

โ€œI proceeded downstairs to locate Mr. Warrell, but he was not visible. Officer Matthew turned right to check if Warrell was fleeing down the ramp or exiting the school grounds, while I turned left toward the rear of the building. Upon rounding the corner, I heard a loud โ€˜clinkโ€™ sound, as if an object had been thrown. I then observed Mr. Warrell with his backpack open and trying to remove items from said backpack. I asked Mr. Warrell, โ€˜What did you throw over the fence?โ€™ to which he initially responded โ€˜nothingโ€™. Upon repeating the question, he stated that he did not want to be searched because he had โ€˜toolsโ€™ in his bag, referring to marijuana,โ€ Hodge wrote.

Warrell began to walk away, but she guided him back to the fence area where he had discarded something and observed a โ€œsmall chrome pistolโ€ on the ground, which Warrell denied was his, she said. A subsequent search of his backpack by school monitor Angel Liburd found a โ€œmedium-sized Mason jar containing several baggies of green leafy substance, which later tested positive for marijuana,โ€ according to the fact sheet.

Further investigation revealed that the recovered firearm was a gray Phoenix Arms .22 long rifle, loaded with a magazine containing three rounds, said Hodge. Warrell did not have a license for either a gun or ammunition, according to the VIPD Firearms Bureau, she said.

Placed under arrest and taken to the Richard N. Callwood Command, Warrell allegedly told police that he fled the search because he feared he would miss his exams if he was found with marijuana in his backpack.

โ€œMr. Warrell stated that he voluntarily left the classroom with his backpack, fully aware of the contents therein. He described the marijuana as being stored in baggies inside a jar, which was then placed inside a Crown Royal bag. He emphasized that the quantity of marijuana was minimal and asserted that he had placed it in his backpack the previous night without any intention of selling or consuming it on school premises. However, he was unable to provide an explanation for why he possessed marijuana at school,โ€ according to the probable cause fact sheet.

He allegedly told police that he โ€œcontemplated disposing of the marijuana but ultimately chose to keep it, stating that he did not want to incur a loss. Mr. Warrell added that as he approached the school gate, he began to search through his backpack, which he uses to carry his โ€˜toolsโ€™; referring to items related to his marijuana use, including a bamboo smoking device.”

Warrell denied possessing a firearm or discarding any item over the fence, despite the officer retrieving a gray or silver firearm from the vicinity where it was alleged to have been thrown, the fact sheet stated.

Viya Restructuring Has Senators Questioning Territoryโ€™s Tax Incentive Programs

The Senate Housing, Transportation and Telecommunications Committee convened Wednesday to receive a handful of infrastructure updates from government agencies and telecommunications companies. (Photos by Alvin Burke Jr., Jamal Potter and Mario Fonceia, Legislature of the Virgin Islands)

Lawmakers Wednesday continued to question why the company formerly known as Viya is receiving tax incentives after aย corporate restructuringย saw local executives laid off and a number of Virgin Islands jobs exported to Guyana.

The discussion came during the first half of a wide ranging Senate Housing, Transportation and Telecommunications Committee meeting that included infrastructure updates from the V.I. Public Works Department, Water and Power Authority, Information Technology Bureau, Management and Budget Office, Virgin Islands Next Generation Network, T-Mobile and One Communications โ€”ย a rebrand of Viya.ย 

Members of the 36th Legislature grilled Viya leadership about the layoffs during a March Committee of the Whole meeting. On Wednesday, newly installed One Communications chief executive Siobhan James-Alexander said she was aware of the senatorsโ€™ concerns.

โ€œThroughout the process we have been sensitive to the needs of our employees, particularly those who have served with us for so long,โ€ she said during prepared remarks. โ€œWe have made every effort to smooth their transition back into the broader workforce or even retirement.โ€

Sen. Clifford Joseph asked about tax incentives the company receives through the University of the Virgin Islands Research and Technology Park.

โ€œSo, how is it that youโ€™re moving jobs out of the Virgin Islands, or the territory, while benefiting from our territory?โ€ he asked.

James-Alexander said the changes were part of the companyโ€™s attempts to remain viable in an increasingly costly industry and that One Communications is committed to its current structure and the Virgin Islanders comprising its workforce.

โ€œWe remain committed, however, to the current structure and engaging and ensuring that the Virgin Islandsโ€™ persons become part of our workforce,โ€ she said.

Joseph seemed unconvinced.

โ€œFinancially, youโ€™re gaining from the Virgin Islands, and then you donโ€™t want the people here. Itโ€™s not making sense to me, personally,โ€ he said.

Sen. Carla Joseph reiterated her concerns about the layoffsโ€™ impact on the territoryโ€™s income tax base, and Senate Majority Leader Kurt Vialet returned to the issue of tax incentives.

โ€œThe reason why tax incentives were given to companies coming to the Virgin Islands was to maintain employees, to grow the workforce, to have a base that are going to receive additional benefits โ€” health care, insurance, retirement,โ€ he said. โ€œAnd what Viya has been doing is systematically getting rid of those individuals, transferring those positions to Guyana and getting rid of Virgin Islanders that work in those area for over 20 years. So how can you say that that is a prudent financial decision? Prudent for who โ€” for the company, or for the Virgin Islands?โ€

James-Alexander said she noted the senatorโ€™s comments.

โ€œIt is a balance between both employee and company, so the decisions that we make โ€” we try to balance customer, company and employee,โ€ she said.

โ€œItโ€™s a balance for One, and thatโ€™s why you rename โ€” youโ€™re hoping that we forget what Viya has done to the employees of the Virgin Islands,โ€ Vialet replied before calling on the RTPark to be transparent and adhere to the same compliance rules as the V.I. Economic Development Authority. โ€œAnd that is going to be codified so that no longer can companies come to the Virgin Islands and take advantage, and import and hire individuals that were held by locally qualified Virgin Islanders. Thatโ€™s a definite no.โ€

Sen. Marise James went further, noting that previous iterations of the company began receiving tax benefits through the territoryโ€™s Economic Development Commission Program.

โ€œIn terms of companies and the benefits that they receive in the Virgin Islands, we really need to do a deep dive into both the Economic Development Authority and the RTPark, and how companies are able โ€ฆ to move from being an EDC beneficiary whose certificate expired in 2003 and then later become an RTPark tenantโ€ around 2012, she said.

The EDA is one of the stated reasons for the U.S. Virgin Islands inclusion on the Council of the European Unionโ€™s list of noncooperative jurisdictions for tax purposes โ€” sometimes called the โ€œblacklistโ€ โ€” which lists countries and territories considered to have unfair or opaque tax practices in an effort to combat worldwide tax fraud, evasion and avoidance. In its assessment of the U.S. Virgin Islands, the council highlighted โ€œharmful preferential tax regimesโ€ like the EDA, exemptions for companies and aspects of the International Banking Center and Regulatory Act.

Since the most recent update in February, the list includes American Samoa, Anguilla, Fiji, Guam, Palau, Panama, the Russian Federation, Samoa, Trinidad and Tobago, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Vanuatu.

Lawmakers on Wednesday also received testimony from V.I. Next Generation Network President and Chief Executive Stephan Adams, who said a $2.1 million grant from the National Technology and Information Administration was terminated last week after the Trump administration said it was โ€œcreated with, and administered using, impermissible and unconstitutional racial preferences.โ€

Public Works Commissioner Derek Gabriel provided testimony on subjects including Liberty VIโ€™s undergrounding efforts, testifying that the company proposed โ€œmicro-trenchingโ€ to minimize the impact on the territoryโ€™s motorists. Gabriel said existing policy mandates that lines be buried 18-24 inches below the roadway and that the department added special conditions to its telecommunications applications, including a five-year warranty and agreements for line relocation when necessary.

โ€œOur goal is to mitigate risk and minimize our liability in this regard,โ€ he said. โ€œThe need to relocate a line or multiple lines may arise for the purpose of emergency road maintenance or an upcoming planned project. It is important to have these items in place up front, as โ€” once installed โ€” these lines effectively become part of our built infrastructure.โ€

Vialet pressed Gabriel for his thoughts on the workaround later, noting that the territoryโ€™s roads already boast nine-inch deep potholes.

โ€œWe are not in too big a favor of it,โ€ Gabriel acknowledged. โ€œI think thatโ€™s a fair statement.

Senate Committee Holds Tenant Rights Measure

The Senate Housing, Transportation and Telecommunications Committee considered a measure requiring landlords to provide residential tenants with 60 daysโ€™ notice of termination for month-to-month leases and 60 daysโ€™ notice of rent increases of five percent or more. Photos by Alvin Burke Jr., Jamal Potter and Mario Fonceia, Legislature of the Virgin Islands)

Lawmakers on the Senate Housing, Transportation and Telecommunications Committee discussed a bill Wednesday that would require landlords to give residential tenants 60 daysโ€™ notice before terminating their lease or increasing their rent.

Leadership from the V.I. Housing Authority testified in support of the measure, which was sponsored by Sen. Marvin Blyden.

โ€œThis provision is particularly crucial for our low-income residents, who are often the most vulnerable to the adverse effects of abrupt changes in their living arrangements,โ€ VIHA Chief Operating Officer Lydia Pelle testified. โ€œBy allowing tenants the proper time to evaluate their options, secure alternative accommodations and manage their finances effectively, we are ensuring that their rights are protected and their security prioritized.โ€

Lawmakers generally supported the measure and its intent but debated the meaning of โ€œfair noticeโ€ mentioned in the billโ€™s summary. Others lamented that there were no private landlords at Wednesdayโ€™s hearing to testify. Sen. Dwayne DeGraff noted that sections of the bill pertained to month-to-month leases, which the Housing Authority doesnโ€™t even offer.

โ€œDoes this apply to you at all?โ€ Sen. Marise James asked.

โ€œIt does not,โ€ Pelle said.

Lawmakers also sought clarity from legal counsel Nandi Sekou on how the proposed changes to the V.I. Code would affect the eviction process.

โ€œThis bill is simply providing notice. Nothing happens here until a notice to quit is filed by a landlord,โ€ she said, or until a tenant decides theyโ€™re not agreeable to a rent increase of five percent or more and decides to vacate. โ€œShould the landlord want the tenant to vacate the premises after this 60-day requirement notice, then the landlord would have to file a notice to quit.โ€

That process is outlined in a different subchapter of the V.I. Code not slated for amendment, Sekou said.

Blyden later told his colleagues that the bill had nothing to do with the eviction process and appeared exasperated by some of their lines of questioning.

โ€œThis bill seeks to assist renters and help with homelessness and stability in the territory. Letโ€™s vote it up or down and move on,โ€ he said. โ€œThatโ€™s my position right now, because I ainโ€™t got no time for all of this stuff โ€” every time I bring a bill, itโ€™s something else. We find a billion things to talk about. The bill is plain and simple.โ€

Lawmakers voted 6-1 in favor of holding the bill in committee.

SRMC Honors Outstanding Employees at Hospital Week Ceremony

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Schneider Regional Medical Center employees honored for dedication and service at Hospital Week event held Wednesday on St. Thomas (Source photo by Judi Shimel)

Administrators at the Schneider Regional Medical Center honored their own at an employees’ recognition event held Wednesday in the lobby of the Roy L. Schneider Hospital. It was an awards ceremony celebrating longevity, dedication and service in challenging times.

About 50 staffers cheered each other on while settled in their seats. A technical crew used a video camera and laptop to stream the ceremony to those who could not attend.

Organizers recognized โ€” among others โ€” the hospitalโ€™s physician of the year, nurse leader of the year and 2025 Employee of the Year, Vernester Cyrille-Hodge. Hodge, an administrator in the Hemodialysis Unit, was praised by Nursing Director Delphine Olivacce for recruiting and training hemodialysis technicians from different divisions within the hospital, including the cafeteria.

Anniversary certificates were handed to employees who completed five, 10, 20, and 25 years of service. Recent retirees were greeted with applause.

Medical center Chief Executive Tina Comissiong pronounced the theme for this yearโ€™s National Hospital Week. โ€œThis yearโ€™s national theme โ€ฆ is a symphony of compassionate care, and I just love that theme because I think it perfectly captures our team right here at SRMC,โ€ Comissiong said. โ€œSo, it takes all of us to run this hospital. Just like in a symphony, every department, every role, every person, every individual has a part to play in what the outcome is.โ€

Officials also honored their new information technology director and his staff for guiding Schneider Hospital through two cyberattacks last year. Among those recognized was IT Nurse Emily Henderson, who was also named Nurse Leader of the Year.

Henderson was cited for going โ€œabove and beyond to ensure patient safety, data integrity and continuity of careโ€ย despiteย disruptions caused by the cyberattacks, Olivacce said.

And Interim Chief Medical Officer George Rosenberg introduced Internal Medicine Chief Lisa Forrester as the 2025 Physician of the Year. โ€œSheโ€™s one of those people that whenever something needs improvement, whenever anyone needs help, Lisa is always there,โ€ Rosenberg said.

Comissioning took time at Wednesdayโ€™s recognition ceremony to hand out her CEO Star Awards and Excellence in Service Awards to several more staff recipients.

Tributes to medical center staff are set to continue Thursday on St. John at the Myrah Keating Smith Clinic.

Student Mental Health Discussed at Disability Rights Center Webinar

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Rebecca Russell, parent advocate, Dawn Oโ€™Bryan, Disability Rights advocate, Haley King, clinical director for Island Therapy Solutions and Shammi Carr, Disability Rights advocate, discuss student mental health at Wednesday’s webinar. (Screenshot from Zoom webinar)

In conjunction with Mental Health Awareness Month, the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands presented a webinar Wednesday that outlined steps to take when working with young people with mental health concerns.

Shammi Carr and Dawn Oโ€™Bryan of the Disability Rights Center moderated the program.

The first presenter was parent advocate Rebecca Russell, who spoke eloquently about her son, born with Down syndrome. From the time he was young, she needed help communicating with and understanding him correctly. Over the years, she learned to help him through his โ€œbehavioral traumaโ€ and express himself verbally without slapping himself. With the help of Disability Rights Center, they learned to connect after he felt emotionally safe.

โ€œSeeking help is not a sign of failure and I had to learn that,โ€ she said. โ€œShifting our language is very important. We must move from โ€˜thatโ€™s wrong to something positive โ€” letโ€™s try something else, let try another way.โ€™โ€

Now, at the age of 20, when he is frustrated, he takes a deep breath and โ€œfinds the words,โ€ said his mother.

Fellow presenter Haley King, clinical director of applied behavior analysis at Island Therapy Solutions on St. Thomas, shared “evidence-based strategies” for how teachers, therapists, and administrators can interact with children. Applied Behavior Analysis, she explained, is the science of behavior change, focusing on observable behaviors, she said.

ABA has been found to increase desired behaviors and decrease undesired behaviors. It promotes the childโ€™s independence and supports academic and social success, King said.

The strategies include antecedent interventions โ€” proactively adjusting the environment to support positive behavior. These approaches may involve modifying the difficulty of a task, clarifying instructions, or removing stimuli that may lead to distress or challenging behaviors.

Teaching alternative behaviors and positive reinforcement can make a difference, i.e., instead of yelling, the student is asked to raise his/her hand, according to the clinical director.

Another strategy is to ask for the easy tasks to be completed first and then build up to the more difficult challenges.

Students can track their own behavior using lists and signs that can give visual support, especially for nonverbal or anxious clients, King said.

To be successful, King said to be consistent with directions, use data to make decisions, collaborate with team members, and donโ€™t expect to control behavior but try to empower the student.

โ€œThe child should not be punished if the behavior is related to the disability,โ€ King said.

There was a question-and-answer period before the webinar ended.

To contact the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands, call 340-772-1200.

Virgin Islands ABCs Initiative: Cultivating Literacy Among St. Croix Youth

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Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts artist-in-residence Angela Golden Bryan led the ABC initiative to empower local third graders to explore, appreciate, and celebrate the unique heritage of the Virgin Islands. Through cultural immersion, artistic expression, and storytelling โ€” and with the collaboration of her colleagues โ€” the ABC book was successfully published in February 2025.

Angela Golden Bryan (Photo courtesy Angela Golden Bryan)

Bryan, executive director and founder of non-profit Fireburn Heritage, Inc., authored the ABC book as an educational program that culminated from Angelaโ€™s five-week residency at CMCARTS.

ABC Island Alphabet book cover (Photo courtesy Angela Golden Bryan)

โ€œWe are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve in this capacity. I am both humbled and honored by this meaningful project, which not only fosters cultural appreciation and storytelling skills but also ensures the preservation of our rich cultural tapestry for future generations,โ€ Bryan said.

Avocado by Janessa Acevedo (Photo courtesy Angela Golden Bryan)

 

Bryan worked alongside โ€œsuch esteemed individualsโ€ as Professor Olasee Davis, CMCArts Educational Coordinator Jessica Parker White, and Art Director Danica David. โ€œThey bring their invaluable expertise and dedication to this initiative,โ€ Bryan added.

E is for Emancipation by Makeil Felix Bright (Photo courtesy Angela Golden Bryan)

Each week of her residency, Bryan read to the students from her childrenโ€™s books, โ€œJames and the Fireburnโ€ and the newly published, โ€œAnna and the Goat Foot Woman.โ€ Through this storytelling, students are exposed to Virgin Islands folklore and historical figures, a core value of Fireburn Heritage, Inc., Bryan shared.

H is for Hook Bracelet by Sโ€™Niyrah Moving (Photo courtesy Angela Golden Bryan)

In addition to cultural discovery hikes with Davis, students selected their letter of the alphabet, along with the item, person, or place that the letter represents. The schools selected for this yearโ€™s project are Claude O. Markoe, Alfredo Andrews, and Ricardo Richards Elementary Schools.

L is for Leatherback by Aneesa Oujaid (Photo courtesy Angela Golden Bryan)

During the final week of the program, students completed their watercolor paintings and their research on the items they painted, which were included in the ABC book.

M is for Moko Jumbie by Dale Dupigny (Photo courtesy Angela Golden Bryan)

Bryanโ€™s exploration into the project was also for her own experience, she said. โ€œGrowing up on St. Croix did not provide many opportunities. My mom was a single parent and she was not exposed to a lot.โ€ When Bryan does projects, she said that they are things that she would have liked to have had as a child.

Q is for Queen Mary by Jewelise Soto (Photo courtesy Angela Golden Bryan)

โ€œThere are so many ways that this program, which is amazing โ€” as it is by itself โ€” can be enhanced,โ€ Bryan shared. Thatโ€™s when she applied for a grant from the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands. โ€œWe can incorporate the contributors and upscale the whole program in a nutshell,โ€ she said.

X marks the Spot by Darieaux Baptiste (Photo courtesy Angela Golden Bryan)

The project began in October 2024 with Bryan, given the task as artist-in-residence, to expose the children to the hiking, the storytelling, the art, and the celebration of culture that would trigger their imagination to produce such a โ€œtellingโ€ document as the ABC book.

Z is for Zest (Photo courtesy Angela Golden Bryan)

ย Key Student Performance Indicators include:

  • Knowing local Virgin Islands plants.
  • Being knowledgeable about native land and sea animals of the Virgin Islands.
  • ย Knowing cultural and folklore figures of the Virgin Islands.
  • Identifying the territorial symbols of the Virgin Islands, such as the bird, flower, and food.
  • Being knowledgeable of the marine ecosystem in the Virgin Islands.

Jessica Parker White

As the educational coordinator at CMCArts, Parker played a pivotal role in this project. She facilitated collaboration between the schools and the museum, she utilized her skills as an art teacher to guide and hone the studentsโ€™ artistic abilities and she gave her hands-on support during the painting process. Her dedication to fostering cultural education was instrumental in bringing this initiative to life, empowering young learners to explore and celebrate their heritage.

Professor Olasee Davis

As an ecologist, an ethnobotanist, historian, and educator, Prof. Davis brought a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to this project. Through his role as an assistant professor/extension specialist of the University of the Virgin Islands, Davis guided students in educational hikes to significant historical and cultural landmarks. His engaging storytelling and ability to connect students with the natural and cultural heritage of the Virgin Islands made learning fun and impactful, leaving a lasting impression on the children and inspiring their curiosity and appreciation for their roots.

Danica David

Serving as the art director for this project, David brought her expertise as a dedicated artist and visual arts educator at St. Croix Educational Complex High School. David carefully reviewed all the childrenโ€™s artwork, contributed to the election process for inclusion in the book, and made critical recommendations on layout, coloring, and artistic enhancements. Davidโ€™s leadership and artistic vision elevated the project, ensuring the final product showcased the creativity and talent of the students while reflecting the cultural essence of the Virgin Islands.

Erin Shae Bryan

As a creative consultant, Bryan brought her energy and insight to every aspect of this project. From assessing students during field trips to working hands-on in the classroom, she encouraged and inspired the children throughout the art process. She also provided valuable input on the bookโ€™s design, layout, and rhyme, helping to ensure that each element resonated with creativity and purpose. Bryanโ€™s passion for education, creativity, and cultural preservation made her an integral part of this projectโ€™s success.

Alfredo Andrews Elementary School

Ms. Finchโ€™s third-grade class

A special thank you to Ms. Finch and her third-grade class at Alfredo Andrews Elementary School. Your artistic contributions and passion for preserving the heritage of the Virgin Islands have been invaluable to this book.

Claude O. Markoe Elementary School

Ms. Lancloseโ€™s third-grade class

A heartfelt thank you to Ms. Lanclose and her third-grade class at Claude O. Markoe Elementary School. Your creativity and dedication have been a vital part of bringing this project to life. Your enthusiasm for celebrating our culture is truly inspiring.

Ricardo Richards Elementary School

Ms. Haynesโ€™ third-grade class

Thank you to Ms. Haynes and her third-grade class at Ricardo Richards Elementary School for contributing your thoughtful and deep love for the islandsโ€™ traditions. Your creativity and enthusiasm have truly enriched this project.

About the Author โ€“ Angela Golden Bryan

As the executive director of Fireburn Heritage and a Crucian by heritage and upbringing, Bryan is passionate about preserving and celebrating the rich history and culture of the Virgin Islands.

An award-winning author and cultural advocate, she co-authored โ€œAnna and the Goat Foot Womanโ€ with Erin Shae Bryan and has written several other works, โ€œJames and the Fireburn,โ€ โ€œFireburn: The Screenplay,โ€ โ€œRoots and Resilience,โ€ and โ€œAuthorities.โ€

A sought-after motivational and inspirational speaker, Bryan delivers engaging messages on faith, spiritual growth, personal transformation, holistic well-being, and cultural heritage. Whether speaking at conferences, churches, or community events, she inspires audiences to embrace personal growth and resilience.

This ABC book is her latest effort to inspire the next generation to embrace and honor their heritage. She hopes it will encourage readers of all ages to celebrate the unique culture of the Virgin Islands for generations to come.

Acknowledgments:

Bryan is deeply grateful to the Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts for the invitation to be an artist-in-residence. Their support, the lodging, resources, and platform were all integral to the success of this project.ย 

She extends her deepest gratitude to the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands, the National Endowment for the Humanities, and the Resist Foundation.

Special thanks to Fireburn Heritage for securing funding, managing the project and providing financial oversight. Fireburn Heritageโ€™s dedication to preserving and sharing Virgin Islands culture has been instrumental in the success of this initiative.

Cinematography Team:
Kevin Moolenaar, George Cannon, and Malik Gomes of Blue Tarp Productions

For more information or to purchase the ABC book:
FireburnHeritage@gmail.com
fireburnheritage.org
cmcarts.org
Call CMCArts: 340-772-2622

Youth Conservation Corps Summer Jobs Available at V.I. National Park

Youth and young adults interested in summer employment and hands-on environmental experience can apply now for the Youth Conservation Corps Program at Virgin Islands National Park. Applications are being accepted through Thursday for the paid summer opportunity, which runs from June 16 to Aug. 1.

Open to applicants ages 15 through 18, the program offers youth the chance to earn $15 per hour for 32 hours of work each week. Participants will take part in a range of outdoor projects โ€” including trail maintenance, natural resource conservation, and public education โ€“ while learning leadership skills and gaining experience in environmental stewardship, according to the press release.

No prior experience is required, only a willingness to learn and contribute. Housing is not provided, the press release stated.

The YCC, a nationwide initiative with more than 50 years of history, connects youth to public lands through meaningful work experiences. Last year, nearly 400 young people participated in YCC programs across the country, the release stated.

To apply or learn more, visit the YCC website.

Commissioner Brooks Joins Regional Law Enforcement Leaders in Guyana To Tackle Transnational Crime

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Law enforcement leaders from across the Caribbean gather at the 39th Annual Association of Caribbean Commissioners of Police Conference in Guyana. (Photo courtesy VIPD)

Virgin Islands Police Commissioner Mario Brooks is attending the 39th Annual General Meeting and Conference of the Association of Caribbean Commissioners of Police, which is being held this week at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre in Greater Georgetown, Guyana, the V.I. Police Department announced in a press release.

The conference, which opened Monday, brings together 25 police commissioners from across the Caribbean to exchange intelligence and strategies focused on combating narcotics trafficking, terrorism, and organized crime. The event is being held under the theme โ€” โ€œUnited in Action, Transformed in Purpose: Building an Integrated Caribbean Security Architecture.โ€

Mohamed Irfaan Ali, president of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, is also attending the conference, underscoring its significance in fostering regional security collaboration, according to the press release.

Brooks, an active member of the ACCP, stressed the need for joint action in addressing criminal activities that often exploit the regionโ€™s interconnected borders, the press release. stated.

โ€œThe deep-rooted cultural similarities and shared norms that bind our Caribbean nations underscore the importance of strengthened collaboration across the region,โ€ Brooks said. โ€œWhile these commonalities foster a vibrant and interconnected Caribbean identity, they also, unfortunately, extend to the realm of criminal activity.โ€

Virgin Islands Police Commissioner Mario Brooks joins fellow regional police leaders and Guyana President Mohamed Irfaan Ali during a reception at the 39th Annual Association of Caribbean Commissioners of Police Conference in Georgetown, Guyana. (Photo courtesy VIPD)

Brooks emphasized that criminals exploit the openness of regional borders to carry out serious offenses, and that this growing threat demands a unified response.

โ€œJust as we celebrate our shared heritage and support one another in times of need, we must adopt a collective approach to safeguarding our citizens,โ€ Brooks said. โ€œBy working together, sharing intelligence, and harmonizing our security efforts, we can effectively curtail cross-border criminal activities and create a safer environment for all Caribbean people. By standing together, we can effectively address the challenges posed by transnational crime and ensure the security and well-being of the Virgin Islands and our region.โ€

The ACCP, founded in 1987, is the premier regional body for professional policing cooperation in the Caribbean.

More information is available at www.vipd.gov.vi.

Joseph Uriah Phillips Dies

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Friends and Relatives are advised of the death of Joseph Uriah Phillips, AKA: Big Joe, Boze, Horse, Slobba or simply, lovingly JOE.

Joseph Uriah Phillips

He is preceded in death by his father Samuel Uriah Phillips and nephew, Sekanii A. Bell

Left behind to mourn:ย 

His Mother, Pearline โ€œMs. Phillipsโ€ โ€œMaaโ€ A. Phillips

Sisters:ย Valerie Williams-Ottley, Heather Phillips, Arlene Phillips-Donovan, Gwen Phillips-Roberts and Octavia Phillips-Roberts

Brothers:ย Alphonso โ€œFonsoโ€ Williams, Frederick โ€œSnakeโ€ โ€œRalphyโ€ Phillips

Aunts:ย Violet Smitten, Ellia Rogers, Clarita Hendrickson, Pat Ward, Yvonne Broderick, Francis Thomas ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย 

Uncles: Anthony โ€œTonyโ€ Patrick Rogers,ย Albert โ€œSunnyโ€ Thomas, Leroy Thomas, Steven Thomas,ย Kieth Thomas, Ivan Thomas,ย  Leonard Thomas

Extended sisters and brothers:ย Wilmoth โ€œJoeyโ€ Jarvis and Family, Francisco โ€œCitoโ€ Javis and Family,ย Goldine Callwood and family,ย Gayle Christopher and Family,ย โ€œSuggieโ€ Johnson and Family,ย  Alexander โ€œJunieโ€ โ€œSargโ€ Robertsย and family,

Brothers-in-law: Allen โ€œBig Alโ€ Roberts Sr,ย  Cecil โ€œBes-A-Demโ€ โ€œButchโ€ Roberts, Kelvin โ€œKellyโ€ Donovan ย  ย  ย  ย  ย 

Sister-in-law:ย Cathy Daiz-Phillipsย 

Aunts-in-law:ย Viola Rogers, Valerie Thomas

Uncles-in-law:ย Irvin Hendrickson,ย  Timothy Ward,ย  John Broderick

Nephews:ย Sheldon Ottley, Kareem โ€œBajaโ€ Phillips and family,ย Keishawn Richards and family, Kyam Richards and family, Cecil โ€œBigShoโ€ โ€œKeboโ€ Roberts and family, Akheem โ€œBambamโ€ Roberts and family, Akheel โ€œKeloโ€ โ€œTookieโ€ Roberts and Family, Carlos Stephens and family, Micheal โ€œMIC LOVEโ€ Stephens and Family, Tyquoy Phillipsfย ย Kanika and Kalila Roberts ย 

Favorite Nephew:ย Allen โ€œAJโ€ Roberts Jr and family,ย 

Nieces: Kheelah Richards-Criswell and family,ย Tyshanna Phillips and family, Tykoiya Phillips, Latoya Williams and family, Alfonsene Williams and family, Tamika Williams and family, ย  ย  ย  ย 

Special nieces and nephews: Great niece Anniyah Bell, Marie Charles, Zhuri Stephens, Ahโ€™quein Roberts and family,ย  Joseph โ€œLil Joeโ€ Williams,ย  Crystal Richards and family, ย 

Cousins:ย Francis Buckly and family, Lynette and Valerie Smitten, Verna, Alfreida, Joan, Glenda, Elston and Winston Williams, Jewel Williams, Mackchesney โ€œMackyโ€ Appleton and family, Felicia Appleton and Family, Clarita โ€œLydiaโ€ Todman and family, Diana O. H-Farrington and family, Viola Henderickson and family, Paul Henderickson and family, Akeem and Mackeem Appleton, Gwendolyn โ€œFannyโ€ Duncan and family, Cora Buckley familyย 

Other cousins:ย John, Denzil, Rupert, Gazzi, Peter, Melda, Charlotte, Annette, Yvett, and Philip Bertie out of England/St. Kitts, The Pennyfeather family out of St. Kitts/St. Thomas, The Rogers Family out of St. Kitts/Anguilla/ST. Thomas/St. John, Williams family out of St Kitts/St. Thomas; Phillips family out of St. Kitts/St. Thomas,ย  Serrant Family out of St. Kitts/St. Thomas, Other cousins out of England, St. Kitts and Anguilla.

A family member of the OTM (Old Tutu Massive) and friends of Alvin McBean Field

Many other family members that are too numerous to mention.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend the viewing on May 17 at Turnbullโ€™s Funeral Home is from 9 to 10 a.m., with services to follow internment PRIVATE

In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer sentiments of love be expressed by visiting a Go-Fund-Me page. This is to offset funeral expenses, ensuring Joseph has the most dignified sendoff he deserves.

Funeral arrangements are under the care of Turnbull’s Funeral Home and Cremation Services of St. Thomas. ย 

Cape Air Deploys Tecnam P2012 Traveller to its Caribbean Market

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(Submitted photo)

Cape Air is pleased to announce the deployment of its Tecnam P2012 Traveller to the Caribbean market, an aircraft the Hyannis-based company has been operating in the U.S. Northeast and Montana since 2019. Cape Air has been a key partner in the development of the Traveller, along with Lycoming engines and Garmin avionics. Starting May 2025, you will begin to see the aircraft circulating the Cape Air Caribbean market on select routes.

โ€œWe are excited to introduce the Tecnam P2012 Traveller to our Caribbean network, offering our passengers a modern, stylish, and highly capable twin-engine aircraft perfect for connecting smaller communities. We are confident that this innovative aircraft will provide an exceptional flying experience for the passengers and communities we serve. We look forward to seeing the Traveller enhance our service throughout the Caribbean,โ€ said Linda Markham, Cape Air President & CEO.

Equipped with the latest avionics from Garmin, the new G1000 Nxi and powered by two modern 375 HP Lycoming piston engines, the Tecnam P2012 Traveller has been designed from the start to be a very versatile and flexible aerial platform offering multi-role opportunities. The aircraft also features amenities like air conditioning, a USB port, an armrest, a cup holder, fresh air outlets and more legroom.

(Submitted photo)

“Today marks a pivotal moment in our journey as we proudly introduce our newest aircraft to the Caribbean. This launch is not only a symbol of our continued commitment to this vibrant region but also a testament to our unwavering belief in its potential to better serve our passengers. As we expand our fleet and strengthen our connections, weโ€™re excited to offer enhanced travel experiences that bring us even closer to the heart of the Caribbean. We are not just expanding our routes; weโ€™re expanding our dedication to the communities we serve and the promise of greater opportunities for allโ€, said Bobby Falcon, Cape Air Managing Director of the Caribbean.

More information on the P2012 Traveller at tecnam.com/aircraft/p2012-traveller

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