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Virtue of the Week – Friendliness

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Virtue of the Week – Friendliness

Virtue of the Week – Friendliness

Virtue of the Week focuses on building peaceful and caring communities through understanding and fostering the practice of virtues. The Source supports the Virtues Project and will publish one virtue developed by the project each week.

 

Friendliness

Friendliness is reaching out and connecting to others with warmth, care and trust. It is essential to our spirit. We attract others by what we are willing to contribute. The presence of a friend can soothe us, unleash our laughter, amplify our joy and diminish our sorrow. Friends are compassionate witnesses to one another’s stories. We share our time, attention, love, and above all ourselves. We look upon strangers as friends we haven’t met yet. Friendship is the best cure for loneliness.

Quote: “One thing everybody in the world wants and needs is friendliness.” -William E. Holler

The Practice of Friendliness

I make others feel welcome.

I have compassionate curiosity.

I connect truthfully and meaningfully.

I take a genuine interest in others.

I share my laughter and my tears.

I invest my time and attention in friendship.

Questions for Discussion

  • What do we need in order to invest our time and attention to social justice?
  • How do we reach out to others with warmth and caring, especially to those who may seem different?
  • What virtues do we need to strengthen in order to build bonds of friendship to create a more inclusive community?
  • What gifts of friendliness do we have to offer to our community in order to help everyone feel welcome?

Sign up to receive the Virtue of the Week by email!

Visit https://cfvi.net/Virtues-Project and scroll to the end of the page to fill out the form.

Virtue of the Week is provided by the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands (CFVI) in partnership with the VI Source and Virtues Matter.

About the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands

Since 1990, CFVI has been a catalyst for positive change in the territory through initiatives committed to youth, learning, family support and the environment. With a professional staff and a volunteer Board of Directors composed of community leaders, CFVI is a trusted advocate and supporter of programs that ensure opportunity and sustainability for current and future generations. CFVI is a registered non-profit organization entirely supported by individual donors, grants, trusts, corporate donations and estate planning. For more information, visit cfvi.net.

About Virtues Matter Virtues Matter was started by a passionate wife-husband team of social entrepreneurs seeking to positively uplift as many lives as possible. We aim to inspire and empower, to build capacity, strengthen relationships, and help everyone lead lives of passion and purpose.

Virtues Matter believes in a world where people are committed to kindness and respect, strive to be their best, and live with hope, courage and in unity. We built the Virtues Cards mobile app, an interactive personal and team development tool, to help people identify and develop key virtue skills. We also offer dynamic workshops, online training, and customized programs to help people cultivate these positive qualities of character. To learn more, visit virtuesmatter.com.

To learn more about the Virtues Project, visit www.virtuesproject.com.

Man Arrested in Domestic Violence Assault on St. Thomas

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Man Arrested in Domestic Violence Assault on St. Thomas

A St. Thomas man was arrested Saturday after allegedly assaulting a woman in Estate Smith Bay, authorities said.

Raheim George, 51, was taken into custody by the Domestic Violence Unit at approximately 3 p.m. and charged with simple assault—domestic violence and aggravated assault and battery—domestic violence, according to a statement from the Virgin Islands Police Department.

Police said the victim, an adult female, reported that George struck her in the face multiple times with his head, causing a black eye. The alleged assault occurred around 3 a.m. Saturday.

George was transported to the Criminal Investigation Bureau, where he provided a statement but denied the allegations, police said. He was booked and turned over to the Bureau of Corrections, pending his advice of rights hearing scheduled for Monday, the police report stated

The Domestic Violence Unit continues to investigate the case. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact 911, the Domestic Violence Unit at 340-715-5535, or the Office of the Police Chief.

USVI U-20 Women Downed 0-6 By El Salvador

Mat Probasco
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USVI U-20 Women Downed 0-6 By El Salvador

The U.S. Virgin Islands Under-20 team lost their Concacaf Women’s U20 Qualification match  against El Salvador 0-6 Thursday night.

The El Salvador squad scored on the Lady Eagles in the twice in the first half of the match at Santo Domingo’s Olímpico Félix Sánchez Stadium and four times in the second half, including back-to-back goals by 15-year-old midfielder Angie Alvarenga.

The Virgin Islands’ next match is against Honduras on Tuesday.

Norma and Raphael Edwards Die

Mat Probasco
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Norma and Raphael Edwards Die

In loving Memory of our Parents Raphael R. Edwards, Sr. December 1, 1934 – July 11, 2020 and Norma Edwards April 15, 1939 – February 12, 2025. 

A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, Feb. 28 at Blyden Chapel. Viewing from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. and service from 5:30 p.m. Final Resting Place will be St. Phillips Antigua, WI.

Raphael Siblings ~ Keathley Edwards, Lincoln Edwards, Valerie Francis and Paulette Francis; Norma Siblings ~ Vanessa Nedra David and Aston Francis Children & Spouses: Nickiete Edwards, Corrine Edwards, Raphael, Jr. and Melrona Edwards, Terry Edwards, Cheryl Edwards, Carol Edwards, Rodney & Janice Edwards Dalmain & Angel Edwards Adopted Children: Chanee’ Chalon, Gladwin Edwards, Sonia Edwards, Euretha Edwards, Mariette Matthews, Agnes Edwards, Stephen Edwards, Henry Carty and Cecile Tongue-Foy, Grandchildren: Cindy Joseph, Tashawn “Sudy” & Sheldon Edwards, and Tiffany Matthias, Tenesha Keyes, and Torrance Jae Clarke, Raquida, Rashaun, Raquel, Raquisha, Kyre and Qi’Yana Edwards, Kareem, Sr, Keeyanda and Shakir Edwards, Elvis, Jr and Emoi Petersen, Chenelle M. and Wilfredo, III Castro, Tenequa Jackson, LeNiqua Edwards, Luciano Hodge, Rodney, Jr, Leila, LeNeya, and Gia Edwards, Dre and Samiya Edwards, 26 Great Grandchildren and nephews and nieces too numerous to mention. Special Family and Friends: Irose Payne-Chalon, Rita Payne-Samuel, Audric Thomas, Eustace Watson, George Sebastian, Mr.& Mrs. Jeffery Chandler, Mr. & Mrs. Ramon Kuntz, Josephine Williams, Alvin Stevens, Charles Walters, Henley Daniel, Haynes Daniel, Cornell Armstrong, Nurse Parker and Family, #1 & Family, Edna Parker, Pauline Nisbett, Dilly D’Alley and Perfume Palace Staff, Bovoni Neighbors, and many more too numerous to mention

Funeral Arrangement by Turnbull’s Funeral Home and Crematory Services 

Beachcomber Hotel Demolition Starts March 3

Mat Probasco
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Beachcomber Hotel Demolition Starts March 3

The Virgin Islands Port Authority has contracted DCM Corporation to demolish the former Island Beachcomber Hotel located at 70-T and 70-U Lindberg Bay, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. The property consists of ten buildings and has been vacant since 2018. It has also suffered damage from several fires. The empty structures pose a safety hazard and detract from the appearance of the beachfront property.

Demolition is scheduled to begin on Monday, March 3, 2025. Work will take place from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and is expected to be completed in approximately 45 days. The demolition site will be secured. However, VIPA advises the community to exercise caution when traversing the area while work is being conducted. The Authority also apologizes in advance for any inconvenience caused as it works to improve its properties.

Contact: Virgin Islands Port Authority

Engineering Department

Tel: (340) 774-1629

Email: info@viport.com

Weekly Weather Forecast With Jesse Daley

Marelise Beach
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Weekly Weather Forecast With Jesse Daley

Check out our weekly weather forecast with Jesse Daley, covering Sunday, Feb. 23, through Saturday, March 1. Our YouTube playlist is updated every week, AND check out Jesse’s daily weather updates here.

St. John’s Episcopal Church Asking for Community Help After Burglary, Vandalism Strikes

Marelise Beach
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St. John’s Episcopal Church Asking for Community Help After Burglary, Vandalism Strikes
The St. John’s Episcopal Church in Christiansted town. (Photo from St. John’s Episcopal Church Facebook page)

A major landmark in the history of St. Croix, the St. John’s Episcopal Church, has been the target of two recent break-ins, and church members are asking for the community’s help in identifying who may be involved.

In the two burglaries that occurred on Feb. 9 or Feb. 10 and then again sometime between Feb. 16 and Feb. 18, important, valuable equipment was stolen, said church member Ruthlyn Matthew.

On two separate occasions, thieves broke into St. John’s Episcopal Church. (Submitted photo)

Matthew suspects that the thieves may attempt to resell these stolen goods and is asking for the community to become vigilant.

Church volunteer for the media team Patricia Brown stated, “I can say all our electronic equipment that we use to do our livestream were stolen. We do bring our services live Sunday morning via Facebook and YouTube. As well as some of the equipment we use in house like the microphones for the podium, the in-house television, the projector that project images that delivers words, messages, and hymns.”

Damage to various parts of the church has disrupted the day-to-day service of the church. (Submitted photo)

“Additionally, the books that were in pews, like the hymnals and prayer books. In the church office the electronic devices from their church office and conference room have been stolen as well,” said Brown.

The thieves did not stop there, they also damaged the church’s backup generator and printer in an attempt to steal parts. Members are still working through other items that were stolen or vandalized.

Thieves stole electronic equipment, pulled on internet wiring, and completely vandalized the St. John’s Episcopal Church. (Submitted photo)

Thugs also disrupted the internet connection for the church which has since been replaced, but is not in perfect working condition due to the disruption caused by pulled wires.

The Source contacted the V.I. Police Department to find out about next steps and to receive any further updates regarding the burglary but were unable to receive a response by press.

According to a recent commentary written by Olasee Davis he said, St. John’s Episcopal Church was established in 1760 or 1761. The church was built on a hill of local limestone and bricks that came from Denmark in ships. It has a distinctive Gothic Revival English style and is located at the western entrance of King Street by the main entry to the town of Christiansted.

Anyone with any information regarding these unfortunate events is encouraged to contact Matthew at 340-690-7823 or Brown at 340-643-7648.

“Caribe Wave” Exercise to Occur in March; Aims to Strengthen Tsunami Preparedness Across Virgin Islands

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“Caribe Wave” Exercise to Occur in March; Aims to Strengthen Tsunami Preparedness Across Virgin Islands

On March 20, the U.S. Virgin Islands will participate in an annual tsunami preparedness drill aimed at educating residents and visitors about the dangers of tsunami waves and the steps to take to stay safe.

“Caribe Wave is the annual tsunami exercise of the Intergovernmental Coordination Group for the Tsunami and Other Coastal Hazards Warning System for the Caribbean and Adjacent Regions of the Oceanographic Commission of the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO),” according to TsunamiZone.com.

Approximately 48 countries and territories are a part of the UNESCO Caribe Early Warning System, including the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.

“The purpose of this exercise is to validate and advance tsunami preparedness efforts in the Caribbean and Adjacent Regions, [and] the annual Tsunami Regional Exercise, ‘Caribe Wave 2025,’ will take place on March 20, starting at [11 a.m. Atlantic Standard Time],” TsunamiZone said.

What Will Occur During the Caribe Wave Exercise?

This year, the Caribe Wave exercise will simulate two separate hypothetical scenarios that could generate tsunami waves across the Caribbean region. One event will be focused on an earthquake centered near Jamaica, and the other situation will highlight a theoretical quake that strikes near Portugal.

“Two different scenarios will be simulated for Caribe Wave 2025, [and] each participating country [or territory] will select the scenario that best fits their objectives,” TsunamiZone explained. “The first scenario simulates a tsunami generated by a magnitude 8.0 earthquake located along the Enriquillo-Plantain Garden Fault Zone [near Jamaica], and the second scenario [involves] a tsunami generated by a magnitude 8.5 earthquake located approximately 270 kilometers off the Portugal coast,” TsunamiZone continued.

The Virgin Islands will partake in a hypothetical simulation based on an earthquake striking near Portugal and generating tsunami waves across the Caribbean. (Photo courtesy UNESCO)

According to information about the exercise, the Virgin Islands will participate in the “Portugal Scenario,” which could generate tsunami waves between one and three meters (three to nine feet) across Caribbean islands.

“The [Portugal Scenario] exercise is based on a hypothetical tsunami scenario similar to ‘The Great Lisbon Earthquake’ that occurred on November 1, 1755,” according to information from UNESCO. “During [that] event, a major earthquake [estimated at having a magnitude between 8.6 and 9.0 occurred] in Lisbon, Portugal, [and] generated a transoceanic tsunami that reached the European and African coasts, islands in the Atlantic, and the Caribbean islands,” UNESCO stated.

“Tsunami messages for this exercise [will be] issued by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC) and the Central American Tsunami Advisory Center based on hypothetical tsunamis,” according to information from UNESCO. “Expected impacts for these events are determined from pre-computed tsunami forecast models,” UNESCO said.

The Source spoke with Daryl Jaschen, director of the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency(VITEMA), regarding communicating the emergency messages that are planned to be issued. Jaschen explained that VITEMA will receive the simulated alert notifications from the PTWC, and the agency is currently planning how to share the messages with the public. Jaschen said that mock radio broadcasts may be utilized to help convey instructions for what the public should do to stay safe.

Jaschen noted that VITEMA plans to utilize the Caribe Wave to enhance preparedness for earthquakes and tsunamis, including conducting evacuation drills at schools across the territory. (The location of the school(s) has yet to be determined as of the writing of this article.)

Jaschen also said that regularly scheduled tests of the Territory-Wide Emergency Alert System will occur, and sirens will be activated on the same day as the Caribe Wave exercise. To receive notifications issued by VITEMA, individuals can sign up for AlertVI on the agency’s website. Residents can also register for the Caribe Wave event at TsunamiZone.comto help them be ready for an actual emergency.

 Preparing for Earthquakes and Tsunamis

 The Caribe Wave simulation comes on the heels of a powerful temblor that occurred near Honduras on February 8, 2025, when a Tsunami Advisory was briefly issued for areas including the Virgin Islands.

The recent tsunami advisory further exemplifies the importance of preparing for earthquakes and tsunamis across the region.

A previous Source article shared information about the threats to both U.S. territories caused by earthquakes and tsunamis, noting that the islands are positioned in an active seismic zone:

Evacuation map of St. Croix, in the event of an actual tsunami. Evacuation zones are pictured in yellow. (Photo courtesy VITEMA)
Evacuation map of St. John, in the event of an actual tsunami. Evacuation zones are pictured in yellow. (Photo courtesy VITEMA)
Evacuation map of St. Thomas, in the event of an actual tsunami. Evacuation zones are pictured in yellow. (Photo courtesy VITEMA)

“During an earthquake, it is critical for people to ‘Drop, Cover, and Hold On’ to protect themselves,” said Elizabeth Vanacore, a seismologist and a researcher at the Puerto Rico Seismic Network (PRSN).

“If you are driving your car [during a] small [seismic] event, you might not perceive the earthquake,” she explained. “However, if there is a larger event, recommended actions become situational. For instance, if you are in a safe area without electric poles or trees, then you should come to a stop, pull the handbrake, and protect your head with your arms,” Vanacore cautioned.

Vanacore encouraged the public to get involved in drills and exercises [including Caribe Wave] that are intended to familiarize and prepare residents and visitors across the region in the event of an earthquake or a tsunami.

“Understanding the hazards due to earthquakes and tsunamis in the region is constantly improving thanks to efforts of scientists and emergency managers both in the USVI and Puerto Rico,” Vanacore declared. “Relationships across the islands are critical to our continued resilience, [and] while earthquakes and tsunamis cannot be predicted, we can all prepare for them,” she noted.

Tsunami Notifications and Their Meanings

An explanation of the various types of tsunami alerts that may be issued during an emergency. (Photo courtesy NOAA)

In the event of an actual emergency during which tsunami notifications are issued, the National Weather Service (NWS) offers the following information about tsunami alerts and how to interpret them:

“Tsunami Warning: Take Action—Danger! A tsunami that may cause widespread flooding is expected or occurring. Dangerous coastal flooding and powerful currents are possible and may continue for several hours or days after initial arrival. Follow instructions from local officials. Evacuation is recommended. Move to high ground or inland (away from the water).

“Tsunami Advisory: Take Action—A tsunami with potential for strong currents or waves dangerous to those in or very near the water is expected or occurring. There may be flooding of beach and harbor areas. Stay out of the water and away from beaches and waterways. Follow instructions from local officials.

“Tsunami Watch: Be Prepared—A distant earthquake has occurred. A tsunami is possible. Stay tuned for more information. Be prepared to take action if necessary.

“Tsunami Information Statement: Relax—An earthquake has occurred, but there is no threat, or it was very far away, and the threat has not been determined. In most cases, there is no threat of a destructive tsunami.”

Weather Information

Additionally, Weather information is also updated regularly on the Source Weather Page, the Source YouTube Channel, and on the official website of the National Weather Service in San Juan, Puerto Rico. USVI residents and visitors can also sign up for emergency alerts, including earthquake and tsunami notifications, from VITEMA.

Senate Calendar Feb. 24 – March 7

Mat Probasco
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Senate Calendar Feb. 24 – March 7

36th Legislature of the Virgin Islands

SENATE CALENDAR

February 24, 2025 – March 7, 2025 

MONDAY,

FEBRUARY 24, 2025 

Committee on Government Operations, Veterans Affairs and Consumer Protection

9 a.m.

Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall, St. Thomas

BLOCK I

The Department of Property and Procurement will provide a comprehensive update on the state of the Government of the Virgin Islands contractual agreements, vendor payments, leases, and the GVI Buy Software.

Key highlights will include the status of capital projects, pending/outstanding leases, contracts, and payments that 

affect government operations. 

Invited Testifier:

Honorable Lisa Alejandro, Commissioner, Department of Property and Procurement

BLOCK II

Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs to provide an update on programs that prevent fraudulent, deceptive, 

and unfair business practices and information to help consumers spot, stop, and avoid scams and fraud.

Key highlights include a fuel price survey, the frequency of grocery store price analyses and results, and the status of 

capital projects.

Invited Testifier:

Honorable H. Natalie Hodge, Commissioner, Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs

 

TUESDAY,

FEBRUARY 25, 2025

Committee on Health, Hospitals and Human Services

10 a.m. 

Frits E. Lawaetz Legislative Conference Room, on St. Croix.

 

BLOCK I 

The Committee will receive testimony regarding the strategic plan to address staffing shortages and the reduction of 

emergency room wait-times at both hospital facilities. Also, the members will be presented with an overview on the 

territory’s MAP program and the boarder crisis in the Gov. Juan F. Luis Hospital & Regional Medical Center and the 

Schneider Regional Medical Center.

Invited Testifiers:

Honorable Averil E. George, Commissioner, Department of Human Services

Tina M. Comissiong, Esq., MPA, CEO, Schneider Regional Medical Center

Hazel Philbert, Interim CEO, Gov. Juan F. Luis Hospital & Regional Medical Center

Darlene Carty-Baptiste, Incoming CEO, Gov. Juan F. Luis Hospital & Regional Medical Center

Christopher Finch, Chairman, Virgin Islands Government Health and Hospital Corporation

Edgar Phillips, Resident, St. Thomas, USVI

BLOCK II 

The members will receive an overview on the designs including final completion target dates of the Herbert Grigg 

Nursing Home, Queen Louise Home for the Aged, Gov. Juan F. Luis Hospital & Medical Center, Schneider Regional Medical Center, Myrah Keating Smith Community Health Center, and the Department of Human Services Complex, on St. Thomas.

Invited Testifiers:

Honorable Averil E. George, Commissioner, Department of Human Services

Christopher Finch, Chairman, Virgin Islands Government Health and Hospital Corporation

Darryl Smalls, Executive Director, Facilities and Capital Development, Territorial Hospital Redevelopment Team

Jerry Smith, Incoming Chairman, Virgin Islands Government Health and Hospital Corporation

THURSDAY,

FEBRUARY 27, 2025

Committee on Rules and Judiciary

10 a.m.

Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall on St. Thomas.

BLOCK I

The Committee will receive testimony on the operations of the Judiciary Branch of the Virgin Islands including but not limited to enabling law and jurisdiction, current department challenges, and plan of action to resolve challenges.

 

Invited Testifier:

Regina deChabert Petersen, Esq., Administrator of Courts, Judiciary Branch of the Virgin Islands

BLOCK II 12:30 p.m.

Dr. Safiya George, Governor’s Nominee Virgin Islands Government Hospital and Health Facilities Corporation, District Governing Board of St. Thomas-St. John 

BLOCK III 2 p.m.

Mr. Anthony Mardenborough, Jr., Governor’s Nominee

Board of Career and Technical Education-St. Croix 

 

BLOCK IV 3:30 p.m. 

Mrs. Elizabeth Guadalupe-Perez, Governor’s Nominee, Virgin Islands Real Estate Appraisers Board

FRIDAY,

FEBRUARY 28, 2025

Committee on Housing, Transportation and Telecommunications

10 a.m. 

Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall on St. Thomas.

 

BLOCK I 

Update and discussion on key matters related to the operations of the Department of Public Works. Providing the 

department’s short- and long-term goals, staffing updates, transportation and bus route extensions, ferry operations, 

engineering services to GVI agencies, and the current state of the territory’s roads, bridges, and cemeteries. As well as the challenges the Department is facing and their plans to address them to better serve the residents of our territory. 

Invited Testifier:

Honorable Derek Gabriel, Commissioner, Department of Public Works

BLOCK II

 Discussion on the operations of the Virgin Island Waste Management Authority as it relates to their plans and priorities for the coming year. Update on the status of staffing, payroll challenges and vendor payments. In addition to the status of tipping fees, wastewater treatment plants, pump station operations and capacity, landfills within the territory, garbage collection, oil collection, and any other challenges the agency is facing, along with their plans to overcome them to better serve the community.

Invited Testifier:

Daryl Griffith, Interim Executive Director, Virgin Islands Waste Management Authority

MONDAY,

MARCH 03, 2025

Committee of the Whole

10 a.m.

Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall

TUESDAY,

MARCH 04, 2025

Committee of the Whole

10 a.m.

Frits E. Lawaetz Legislative Conference Room

WEDNESDAY,

MARCH 05, 2025

Committee on Budget, Appropriations and Finance

9 a.m.

Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall

FRIDAY,

MARCH 07, 2025

Committee on Education and Workforce Development

9 a.m.

Frits E. Lawaetz Legislative Conference Room on St. Croix.

BLOCK I

Status of Workforce Development Programs that align with key industries (construction, technology, healthcare)

Breakdown of local and federal funds allocated for workforce development and the number of individuals served

Update on the Youth and Apprenticeship Program, including participating service providers and individuals served

Financial breakdown of expenditures for the Youth and Apprenticeship Program

Status and of the Summer Youth Work Experience Program 

Youth Team impact: Number of youths served, completed academic/career assessments, and service referrals

Invited Testifier:

Honorable Gary Molloy, Commissioner, Department of Labor

BLOCK II

Overview of Organization’s Mission and Programs

Workforce Development Initiatives

Educational and training opportunities offered 

Collaborations with schools, colleges, and vocational programs

Success stories and community impact

Barriers and challenges to workforce development

Invited Testifiers:

Scott Bradley, Founder, My Brother’s Workshop

Frandelle Gerard, Executive Director, Crucian Heritage & Nature Tourism

Suzanne Darrow-Magras, PhD, Director, University of the Virgin Islands Center for Excellence in Leadership and Learning (UVI CELL)

Bryan Meets With President Trump and Fellow Governors To Discuss Key Federal Partnerships

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Bryan Meets With President Trump and Fellow Governors To Discuss Key Federal Partnerships

Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. met with President Donald Trump and fellow governors at the White House to discuss key policy priorities, including economic development, regulatory reform, education funding, and public safety. The meeting provided an opportunity to address the Virgin Islands’ specific challenges and explore collaborative efforts between state and federal governments.

A major topic of discussion was the restart of the oil refinery, a project Bryan described as a significant economic opportunity for the territory. He stressed the need for streamlined federal regulations to facilitate large-scale projects, ensuring they move forward efficiently while creating jobs and driving economic growth, according to the press release.

Bryan and other governors also raised concerns about the federal regulatory process, arguing that excessive bureaucracy delays essential infrastructure and economic initiatives. They advocated for deregulating certain federal projects to reduce red tape and accelerate progress, the press release stated.

On education, Bryan pushed for block grants to the Education Department, arguing that the current federal funding system imposes unnecessary administrative burdens. He emphasized that granting funds in block form would allow the Virgin Islands to allocate resources more effectively, addressing local educational needs without excessive federal oversight, the release stated.

Public safety was another key issue. Bryan highlighted the importance of cooperation between federal and local law enforcement to remove individuals in the territory illegally and crack down on crime. He also called for stronger federal action to prevent the influx of drugs, particularly fentanyl, into the islands and to ensure that those who threaten public safety face serious consequences, it said.

“Today’s meeting was a productive opportunity to ensure that the Virgin Islands’ needs are understood at the highest levels of government,” Bryan said. “By working together with the federal government, we can drive economic growth, improve public safety, and ensure that our residents receive the resources they deserve.”

Bryan remains committed to strengthening federal partnerships to advance the interests of the Virgin Islands. He plans to continue working with the administration and Congress to advocate for policies that support the territory’s economic and social well-being, according to the press release.

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