The Virgin Islands Waste Management Authority would like to inform the community that beginning Saturday, March 8, 2025, the operating hours for metal disposal at the Bovoni Landfill will be as outlined below:
• Monday – Friday: 7 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
• Saturdays: 7 a.m. – 12 p.m.
• Sundays – Closed
The community is reminded to adhere to proper waste disposal guidelines to ensure the continued safety and cleanliness of the landfill facility.
The VIWMA remains dedicated to providing reliable services and appreciates the community’s ongoing support and understanding.
With profound sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved matriarch, Martha Earlin Gordon Wilkins-Ralph, who peacefully transitioned at her home on Sunday, February 16, 2025, surrounded by her loving daughters. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, foster mother, sister, aunt, and friend whose warmth, kindness, and unwavering love touched the hearts of all who knew her.
Martha Earlin Gordon Wilkins-Ralph
Born on March 4, 1941, on the island of Tortola, BVI, she was affectionately known as Earlin. On St. Thomas, she was fondly called “Moms”, recognized as the dedicated owner of Mom’s Day Care and Preschool, and a respected taxi operator known as TP-691, as well as a proud member of the VI Taxi Association. Her legacy of love, service, and dedication to her family and community will forever be cherished.
Martha Earlin was preceded in death by her: Husband – Gershom Ralph “White Knight” – Parents – Leona Frett- Lloyd & Ivan Rabsatt Gordon, Daughters- Priscilla Wilkins, Pricillia Wilkins, Grandchildren – JeSia Ralph, O’Malie and O’Myria Ralph (twins), Siblings – Idelie Somersall (Tiny), Lucien Nibbs Sr. (Boogie), Berchel Wheatley, (Boyblue) VitaliaLeonard(Wethelma)
Martha Earlin is survived by her Children: Perry, Pepsy (Stumpy), Pete, Peggy, Pethronella, Percel, Grandchildren: Lameak, Lamesha (Missy), Jahmaine, Leon (Bunky), Leanna, Julia, Jullina, Jessica, Shian, Shilo, Wesley, Dancarlys, Alexander, Pepsi’Ana, Pepsynique, Enrique, Cyril (Jermaine),Damiel, Daimalyn, Kathleen and Adeja Wilkins, Leal Lettsome (Lyshem), Leandra and Le’Quandra Williams, Petesia Harley (Peddy), K’Rell Frazer, Petrise Hanley, Elana, Alana, O’Mari, O’Mesha, O’Marr, O’Mani, Isaiah, Kimani and Imani Ralph, Ganelle Doyling, Damian JnoBaptiste, Safiya Shillingford, Stepchildren: Esther (Kathy) Ralph – Underwood (Anthony), Francine, Colette, Denecia, Dagmar, Desiree, Dawn, and Dale Ralph Great-Grandchildren 41, Great-Great Grandchild , Sisters: Amona Nibbs-Dickerson, Arona Nibbs, Floria Warner (Koolie), Aunt: Magerita Blyden, Brothers – in – Law: Milton, George (Author) and Glen Ralph, Flynn Dickerson, Eugene Somersall, Sisters – in – Law Evelyn Richards, Patsy Ralph, Sylvia Peters, Marilyn Weston, Gloria Wheatley, Son – in – Law Calvin Williams Sr., Daughter – in – Law, Latoya Richards-Wilkins, Best Friend, Anona Chalwell, Special Friends and Supporters: Sister Pinney, Sister Victor, Zina King, Judith Wayland, Brenda Williams, Gail VanHolten, Eric Williams, Hector Lyndon, Rudolph (Zami) Harley, Clarencio Fleming-Rogers, Maxine Sasso, Juana George,Pastor Dennis and Rachel Estridge, Bishop Glenville and Erica Thompson, Pastor Lerone and Joy Hodge, Bishop George and Amelia Best, Bishop Earl and Grace Harrison. She also leaves to mourn a myriad of family members and friends too numerous to mention.
We will gather to honor her life and legacy, with a celebration of the beautiful memories she leaves behind. Details of the funeral service are as follows:
1st Viewing: Turnbull’s Funeral Home: Friday, March 14 4 – 6 p.m.2nd Viewing : Mount Zion New Testament Church of God: Saturday, March 15, 9 – 10 a.m. Service: Immediately Following 10 a.mInterment: Eastern Cemetery
In lieu of flowers, please honor my mom’s memory by making a donation to the Methodist Radio Ministry. Your support would mean a lot to our family and continue her legacy of giving.
Funeral arrangements are under the care of Turnbull’s Funeral Home and Crematory Services, St. Thomas.
The Virgin Islands Department of Education is proud to announce an exciting lineup of community events as part of the 2025 Artist in Residence Program and Music ME – Music Education Month. These initiatives celebrate music, culture, and education, offering students and the public opportunities to experience world-class performances, interactive presentations, and inspiring educational programs.
Mark Your Calendars!
March 8 – Jazz in the Park from 6 pm to 10 pm at Roosevelt Park, St. Thomas.
The stage is set, the vibes are high, and the rhythm is calling! Jazz in the Park returns with an electrifying lineup. Kicking off the night will be the UVI Jazz Combo, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening featuring Dion Parson & Friends with the incredible Lorna Freeman, alongside powerhouse Artists in Residence: Melvin Jones, Mikael Darmaine, and Henry Cole. Come for the music, stay for the energy!
Upcoming Artist in Residence Program Events:
March 15th – UVI Music Program Showcase
March 16th – Afternoon on the Green at the University of the Virgin Islands (Student Presentation)
March 20th – Lockhart K-8 Concert
March 29th – Steelpan Presentation at 81C led by Victor Provost & Anthony Hailey, featuring steelpan students from schools across the Territory
Music is ME – Music Education Month- Brought to you by the Virgin Islands Department of Education’s Division of Music Education & Programs.
Wellness Wednesdays (each Wednesday throughout March)
March 12th on St. John | The Ronald Lee Experience at St. John School of the Arts, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm.
District Finale Concerts
March 13th – St. Thomas-St. John District Finale Concert
March 20th – St. Croix District Finale Concert
St. Croix Educational Complex HS Auditorium, 6 pm, $10 Adults, $5 Students/Children.
MUSIC IS ME DAY – Thursday, March 27, 2025
The VIDE invites students, educators, parents, and the entire community to join us in celebrating music, artistry, and education throughout the month of March. These programs provide an immersive experience that highlights the cultural richness of the Territory and nurtures the next generation of musical talent.
Relatives and friends are advised of the passing of Duke Charles Ferguson who passed away on November 3, 2024 at the age of 80.
Duke Ferguson
He is survived by his:
Sisters: Enid Lawrence and Bernice Ferguson-Hassel
Brothers: Ian and Paul Ferguson in St. Kitts
Sister: Bernice Hassell in St. Martin
Sisters in law: Thessel Ferguson and Francis Rodriquez-Ferguson
Uncle: Roy Maynard in the UK
Niece: Simone Charles
Nephews: Alonzo Hassel
Great Niece: Hilary Ferguson-Morton
Great Nephews: Anil and Gabriel Ferguson
Relatives ofhis father the late David Ferguson including Purcell Ferguson, Dennis Merchant, Jasmine Hanley Heyliger, Cynthia “Girlie” in St. Kitts; Vernice Merchant, Roy, Lesa, Michael, Stephen and Pamella Maynard in the UK; Swithun Ferguson, Micheal Mandraker Jacobs, Arthur “Franklyn” Frederick, Colleen Hanley, Garfield, Anneta, and Joy Maynard in the USA; and Dora Mollineaux, Judy, Lloyd Jr, Asaunta, and Racer Maynard in St. Thomas
Lifelong Friend – John Bass
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend a memorial service that would be held on Friday, March 14, 2025, at Celestial Chapel of Dan Hurley Funeral Home at 10 a.m.
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 our website at www.hurleydavisfuneralhome.com
With deep sadness we announce the passing of Mrs. Fernella Hilarya Campbell, affectionately known as “Fernie,” on Feb 22. After a brief illness, Mrs. Campbell passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family and friends.
Mrs. Campbell was a caring person known for her generous hospitality to her family and friends. A devoted member of the Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Church, she faithfully served in multiple capacities, including as a Women’s Ministry leader, Sabbath School superintendent and head usher. Mrs. Campbell’s career as a secondary school educator spanned over forty years, during which she taught at Richland Park SDA School in St. Vincent, West Indies; St. Croix SDA School; and St. Croix Central High School.
Mrs. Campbell was preceded in death by her beloved husband of forty-one years, Charles H. Campbell. She is survived by her devoted son, Dr. Cedric H. Campbell, daughter-in-law, Dr. Lenore N. Joseph, and precious granddaughters, Amanda and Ella Campbell. Other family members include her brother-in-law, Colbert Campbell of Tobago; siblings, Gloria and Marilyn Simon of Gambles Terrace, Antigua, Thomas Simon, and Catherine (Blondell) Simon Gordon of New York; nieces Anise Simon, Margaret Simon, Avril Hector, Blondell Carter Lake, and Wendy Lake Ricke; nephews, Dr. Lloydstone Jacobs II, Kevin Simon, Rashaan Simon, Vere Edwards, Bernard Lake and Floyd Francis; cousins, Daisy Jacobs and Nita Simon; and other extended family members. She also leaves to mourn treasured friends including Mr. and Mrs. Denston and Audrey Bacchus, Ms. Goldine Charlemagne, Dr. Valarie Knowles Combie, Mr. and Mrs. Curtis and Ada-Luz Flemming, Mr. Franklyn Joseph, Pastor and Mrs. Reginald and Annette Michael, Mr. And Mrs. Albert and Maria Schuster, Mr. Wendel Thomas, Mrs. Pearl Wells-Lescott, Ms. Masie Willie, and other dear friends too numerous to mention.
A celebration of Mrs. Campbell’s life will be held at Central SDA Church on April 6th, at 9 am. Attendees are asked to wear purple in honor of Mrs. Campbell. Arrangements are under the care of James Funeral Home. Tributes must be sent to cambie20002000@yahoo.com by March 21.
Juan Antonio Garcia, a.k.a “Tony” of Peter’s Rest, transitioned into eternal life on March 3. He was 82 years old.
Juan Antonio Garcia
He is preceded by his mother, Felicita N. James Garcia; father, Juan Garcia Velez; stepdaughter, Sherry Popo; sisters, Joyce Finney, Felicita (Padu) Garcia Simpson; brothers, Raphael James, Jose (Pepe) Garcia, Innocencio (Chencho) Garcia, Felipe Garcia; brothers-in-law, Celestino Helder, William (Bill) D. Roebuck; special friend, Delbert Hewitt.
He is survived by his companion, Marjorie Popo; daughters, Graciella Toribio Batista (McCall), Germaine Andrews, Kimberly Pemberton; stepdaughter, Andrea Popo; sons, Gregory A. Garcia, David Garcia, Ronnie Garcia; grandchildren, Brandon McCall, Sebastian McCall, Matthew McCall, Aaron McCall, Gregory Raphael Garcia Monegro, Christalya Farrelly, Kiymoy Farrelly, Kimmari Farrelly, Makeda Farrelly, Antonio Boneparte, Alexander Boneparte, Alijah Boneparte, Andrew Flynn, Skyler Staton, Ciara Staton; great-grandchildren, Elise Charlie McCall, Akido Parrilla Jr., Asani Francis, Kimaira Farrelly, Nazariah Farrelly; sisters, Julia Garcia Sergent, Juanita Garcia Roebuck, Teresa (Terry) Garcia Gaskin; brothers, Kwame Garcia Sr., Ira Phillips; son-in-law, Reginald Andrews; sisters-in-law, Grete James Garcia, Verna Christian Garcia; cousin, Earl Roebuck; special friends, Brisbane Taylor, Castro Saddler; other relatives and friends too numerous to mention.
The funeral service will be held on March 17 at James Memorial Chapel. The viewing will begin at 10 a.m. and the service at 11 a.m. Interment will follow at Christiansted Cemetery.
Professional services are entrusted to James Memorial Funeral Home, Inc.
Administrator of Courts, Regina Petersen, advises the public and members of the Virgin IslandsBar Association, that in observance of Transfer Day and the Easter holidays, the JudicialBranch will be closed in both districts on the following days:
Monday, March 31, 2025 – Transfer Day
Thursday, April 17, 2025 – Holy Thursday
Friday, Friday, April 18, 2025 – Good Friday
Monday, April 21, 2025 – Easter Monday
Following the Easter Holiday, the Judicial Branch of the Virgin Islands will be closed asindicated observance of the following holidays:
Wednesday, April 30, 2025 – Food Fair 12 noon (St. Thomas/St. John Only)
Thursday, May 1, 2025 – J’ouvert (St. Thomas/St. John only)
Friday, May 2, 2025 – Children’s Parade (Both Districts)
Monday, May 26, 2025 – Memorial Day
Thursday, June 19, 2025 – Juneteenth
Thursday, July 3, 2025 – Emancipation Day
Friday, July 4, 2025 – Independence Day
Monday, September 1, 2025 – Labor Day
Monday, October 13, 2025 – PR/VI Friendship Day (aka Columbus Day)
Saturday, November 1, 2025 – D. Hamilton Jackson Day
Tuesday, November 11, 2025 – Veteran’s Day
The public is reminded that filings will continuously be accepted through the previouslyapproved methods:
Supreme Court: Electronic filings and payments will continue to be accepted in all eligible cases through the Virgin Islands Judiciary Electronic Filing System (VIJEFS) which can be accessed using https://usviefile.vicourts.org. A secured lockbox will be available for nonelectronic filers at the entrance of the Supreme Court’s premises at No. 161B Crown Bay, onSt. Thomas and No. 18 Strand Street, Frederiksted, St. Croix.
Superior Court: Electronic filings and payments will continue to be accepted in all eligible cases through the Virgin Islands Judiciary Electronic Filing System (VIJEFS) which can beaccessed using https://usviefile.vicourts.org. In the District of St. Thomas-St. John, filings(including those for the Magistrate Division) will be accepted via a secured lock box on the FirstFloor, East Wing entrance of the Court’s premises at the Alexander A. Farrelly Justice Center.
In the District of St. Croix, filings will be accepted via a secured lock box located at the entranceon the First Floor of the R.H. Amphlett Leader Justice Complex.
he Virgin Islands Department of Education, in collaboration with the USVI Changemakers Foundation, proudly announces the upcoming Code Red: State of Emergency Summit, a powerful and urgent initiative designed to address the crisis of youth violence in our community.
Set to take place on Monday, March 10, at Ivanna Eudora Kean High School at 8:30 am and Charlotte Amalie High School at 11 a.m., this groundbreaking event will bring real-life experiences to the forefront, offering students invaluable lessons in decision-making, conflict resolution, and accountability.
This summit is not just a discussion—it’s a wake-up call. Our community is in a state of emergency, and the time for action is now. Through firsthand testimonies, students will hear the raw, unfiltered realities of how one decision can alter the course of a lifetime.
The summit will feature individuals who have overcome adversity and transformed their lives, sharing the consequences of their past choices and the lessons they learned along the way.
Among the speakers are:
Dennis “Shabazz” Blyden – Recently pardoned by Governor Bryan, Shabazz brings a powerful story of redemption and change after 42 years of incarceration.
Roberto “Rabbie” Smalls – Formerly incarcerated for 25 years, he is now a respected community figure advocating for youth empowerment.
Nilda Morton – A formerly convicted felon turned mental health advocate, she will share insights into the dangers of drug dealing and the power of breaking negative cycles.
Keshawnie “Billy Blasta” Henry – Paralyzed in a Barbel Plaza shooting at just 17 years old, his story serves as a stark reminder of how one moment can change a life forever.
The event will be hosted by Kyle and Red Man, bringing energy and engagement to this critical discussion. The Code Red: State of Emergency Summit is a direct response to the increasing incidents of youth violence and destructive decision-making. By exposing students to real-life consequences, this event aims to empower them to choose a better path, one that leads to success, safety, and community leadership.
This initiative aligns with the VIDE’s commitment to providing holistic educational experiences that extend beyond academics, shaping well-rounded, socially responsible young adults. Together, we can create a future where our youth are equipped with the knowledge, tools, and inspiration to break cycles of violence and embrace positive change.
Lieutenant Governor Tregenza A. Roach, Esq. announces that effective Monday, March 10, 2025, the Division of the Recorder of Deeds on St. Croix presently located at Government House, King Street, Christiansted, St. Croix, will temporarily relocate to:
Office of the Lieutenant Governor
Old Caribe Home Center Building
#35 Estate Castle Coakley, Second Floor
Christiansted, St. Croix, VI 00820
For the first week of relocation, March 10 to March 14, customers will be able to access the services of the Recorder of Deeds from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m only. The modification of hours of operation is necessary in order to allow employees time to complete all tasks related to the relocation.
The last day of operations at Government House Christiansted will be Friday, March 7, 2025. The Office of the Lieutenant Governor apologizes for any inconveniences which may occur due to the relocation and modified service hours.
For more information, contact the Division of the Recorder of Deeds in the St. Croix District at 340-340-773-6449 or visit ltg.gov.vi.
V.I. Labor Commissioner Gary Molloy provided lawmakers on the Senate Education and Workforce Development Committee with an update on the territory’s labor initiatives Friday on St. Croix. (Photo courtesy V.I. Legislature)
Leadership from the V.I. Labor Department Friday provided lawmakers on the Senate Education and Workforce Development Committee with an update on the territory’s workforce and the government programs meant to prepare Virgin Islanders to meet the territory’s towering labor needs.
During questioning, Sen. Hubert Frederick said the territory’s business community is leaning on the Labor Department to supply skilled workers. Noting that several businesses had recently announced temporary closures due to fears around the Trump administration’s stated antipathy toward undocumented workers, Frederick asked how the Labor Department planned to account for the shortfall.
“They shouldn’t be working anyway — we’re aware of that — but the point is, they were, and we need to fill the gap,” he said. “So, where are we?”
Molloy deferred to Workforce Development Director Charlene Hodge, who appeared to answer a different question.
“I’m sorry, but my question deals with your department preparing a workforce substitution for the workers that were recently … vanished from their current roles for businesses right now,” Frederick said. “What are you guys doing to help us replace or gain other workers that will help us out in the business community?”
Molloy said it depended on the industry.
“Every business in the Virgin Islands is expected to file their vacancies in the Virgin Islands Electronic Workforce system … and so once an employer has a vacancy, that’s the way that we know that you have needs,” he said.
Frederick pressed on, stating that members of the Legislature recently had difficulty securing hotel rooms on St. Thomas because the unnamed hotel or hotels didn’t have enough staff to prepare rooms.
Molloy reiterated that businesses have to report their vacancies, at which point the Labor Department refers to its bank of applicants and places eligible candidates in training.
“So it sounds convoluted, but it’s a lot simpler than it is once the business alerts us and does the posting,” he said.
The territory has boasted a relatively low unemployment rate in recent years. During his seventh State of the Territory Address, Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. said unemployment has remained below four percent for an “unprecedented” 14 consecutive months and even dropped to a “record-breaking” 2.9 percent at one point.
Those percentages only account for the number of Virgin Islanders who are actively seeking employment. Only half of the population fits that criteria.
In an interview with the Source last year, Molloy said the territory needed approximately 7,000 skilled workers to complete its myriad federally-funded disaster recovery projects.
Bryan acknowledged that job posts have outpaced the number of applicants and announced that a Virgin Islands Technical College will open in September 2025 to “address workforce shortages and provide residents with access to higher-paying careers,” giving territory high school students a way to graduate with two-year college degrees and certifications.
Senate Majority Leader Kurt Vialet, who chairs the committee, asked testifiers Friday how the territory could engage residents in key industries like construction.
“How are we getting out there to all those guys on the street that just cooling all day, doing … not a thing — I wanted to say something else — how are we hitting our population so that we don’t have to import a hundred Puerto Ricans? We have a large number of Venezuelans — and thank God they’re here — but how do we get our people to be able to enter into those fields,” he asked.
Molloy said his team had been through “every housing community in the territory at least three times — minimum” to recruit for Labor Department programs. Individuals are recruited for programs based on their interest, he said.
“I can tell you that throughout the territory, there’s not been too much interest in the St. Thomas-St. John district in the construction area,” he said. “The interest in the construction area has been in the St. Croix district.”
Lawmakers heard from the leadership of My Brother’s Workshop, the University of the Virgin Islands Center for Excellence in Leadership and Learning, and Crucian Heritage and Nature Tourism in the afternoon.
The stage is set, the vibes are high, and the rhythm is calling! Jazz in the Park returns with an electrifying lineup. Kicking off the night will be the UVI Jazz Combo, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening featuring Dion Parson & Friends with the incredible Lorna Freeman, alongside powerhouse Artists in Residence: Melvin Jones, Mikael Darmaine, and Henry Cole. Come for the music, stay for the energy!
