Vernice Gumbs, pictured at a past Senate hearing, said she intends to challenge her termination by the V.I. Taxicab Commission Board. (Photo courtesy V.I. Legislature)
There is new leadership at the Virgin Islands Taxicab Commission. Vernice Gumbs was terminated on Thursday after serving as executive director for close to two-and-a-half years.
The decision came during a scheduled meeting of the commission’s board; in a statement made after the meeting, board Chair Elizabeth Watley said that board members wanted to move in a new direction. At the same meeting, they chose Melissa Smith to serve as acting director.
Smith came to the Taxicab Commission to work in the office as a borrowed employee, said board Secretary Myrna George. Her duties in the leadership post began on Friday.
Gumbs — who rose from assistant director to executive director in September 2022 — was quoted in an online news story as saying she intended to challenge the board’s decision.
As she began her duties, Gumbs faced an unhealthy workplace due to mold contamination and a disorderly paper filing system to manage, according to previous reports. Taxi drivers complained to lawmakers that chaos in the commission office led to unannounced closures, unexplained fines for noncompliance, and no way for them to question the process.
“You would recall that I had a series of town meetings … we had concerns about the overall management of the Taxi Commission — not just about Vernice Gumbs,” said Sen. Carla Joseph. “The operation of the Taxi Commission has been dysfunctional for a number of years.”
Joseph was among several lawmakers who brought their constituents to meetings where they were invited to vent their grievances against the Taxicab Commission.
The one achievement Joseph noted that occurred with Gumbs at the helm was resumption of Taxi and Tour Operators courses at the University of the Virgin Islands extension service. Students completing the course are eligible to receive a Class C certification to add to their driver’s licenses.
George said she hoped the change in management would be the start of a smooth transition into a more efficient and reliable administration to serve licensed taxi drivers and their customers.
DLCA Deputy Commissioner Myrna George discussed the agency’s accomplishments Monday. (Photo courtesy V.I. Legislature.)
The Licensing and Consumer Affairs Department (DLCA) faced scrutiny from lawmakers Monday, as senators demanded stronger consumer protections, clearer price monitoring, and better oversight of business practices. Appearing before the 36th Legislature’s Government Operations, Veterans Affairs, and Consumer Protection Committee, Deputy Commissioner Myrna George outlined DLCA’s ongoing enforcement efforts, new initiatives, and challenges while lawmakers pushed for more aggressive regulatory action.
George reported that DLCA has resolved or forwarded approximately 320 consumer complaints over the past year, ranging from deceptive business practices and contract disputes to price gouging. The department also enforces key laws such as the Consumer Protection Law, the Price Control Act, the Unfair Business Practices Act, and the Truth in Pricing Law to ensure fair trade and prevent economic exploitation. However, committee Chair Sen. Avery Lewis challenged whether these laws were being adequately enforced, pressing DLCA on the need for a Better Business Bureau-style platform to expose fraudulent businesses and contractors.
He said he has submitted legislation toward this effort, stating, “We need a mechanism that will promote better service to our residents and visitors, and likewise, encourage increased value to the services provided to the public.”
George acknowledged the importance of transparency but reiterated that DLCA does not have prosecutorial power over fraud cases. Instead, fraud complaints are referred to the Federal Trade Commission or the White-Collar Crimes Unit of the Virgin Islands Police Department. Some lawmakers argued that this process frustrates consumers seeking immediate action and leaves gaps in accountability.
Concerns over the rising cost of fuel and essential goods dominated much of the discussion, with lawmakers demanding answers on DLCA’s ability to intervene in price spikes. Asked whether DLCA had any control over gas prices, particularly amid growing economic concerns, Matthew Padgett, director of Consumer Affairs, admitted that while the department monitors gas prices, it has no authority to regulate them.
“We have no control over the price that retailers set,” Padgett stated. “We cannot tell gas stations what to charge.”
Lawmakers also expressed concern over the lack of long-term price tracking for essential goods. While DLCA provides a “Shopping Basket” snapshot of real-time prices at various retailers, George clarified that this data does not allow for long-term price comparisons or inflation tracking. Instead, the Bureau of Economic Research is responsible for conducting Consumer Price Index reports and formal Market Basket Surveys. To address some of these concerns, George announced that funding has been secured to resume the Food, Fuel, and Housing Study, a cost-of-living analysis that originally began in 2017 but lacked thorough data. The study runs from Dec. 31, 2024, to Dec. 31, 2026, providing a more comprehensive assessment of economic conditions affecting Virgin Islanders.
Despite criticism over enforcement limitations, DLCA highlighted several upcoming improvements to streamline services and enhance business compliance. George announced that the department is moving forward with an overhaul of its business licensing portal and website to improve efficiency. The new system will allow for faster complaint processing and better tracking of consumer disputes.
Additionally, DLCA is expanding its office spaces to better accommodate growing service demands and increasing public outreach efforts. George touted recent initiatives, including Consumer Protection Week, senior fraud awareness workshops, and partnerships with organizations like AARP to educate the public on scams and unfair business practices.
“These efforts are about strengthening consumer confidence and ensuring transparency in the marketplace,” George said. “We remain committed to holding businesses accountable while also educating the public on their rights.”
Beyond consumer protection and price monitoring, lawmakers grilled DLCA on its outstanding vendor payments, with more than $300,000 still unpaid since October 2024. Senators called this unacceptable and demanded action to clear the backlog. Additionally, some legislators argued that DLCA’s lack of enforcement power leaves gaps in oversight.
Sens. Avery L. Lewis, Novelle E. Francis Jr., Ray Fonseca, Alma Francis Heyliger, Kenneth L. Gittens, Franklin D. Johnson, and Carla J. Joseph were present at the Monday’s meeting, including non-committee members Sens. Angel L. Bolques Jr., Clifford Joseph, Marvin Blyden, Kurt A. Vialet, and Hubert Frederick.
The all-female athletes learn skills such as ball passing, dribbling, different stepovers, and more during the soccer clinic. (Photo by Lance Chardon)
Saturday and Sunday were soccer-filled days for approximately 40 young female players and local coaches on St. Thomas and St. Croix. Lady Rovers SC, in partnership with Football is Freedom, Marley Natural, the USVI Soccer Federation, and LRVI FC Castaways, hosted a free soccer clinic on both islands.
The Football is Freedom initiative is led by Cedella Marley, daughter of Robert Nesta “Bob” Marley, under the Bob & Rita Marley Foundation.
In celebration of the beloved singer’s 80th birthday, the clinic and coaching seminar focused on supporting female footballers and creating opportunities for them to succeed both on and off the field.
At the Bethlehem Field on St. Croix, Coach Mackiesh Taylor Jones, one of the main founders of Lady Rovers SC, described the morning session for young players aged 10-18. The session began with introductions, followed by icebreakers and various soccer drills, including ball passing, dribbling games, step-overs, shooting, and other techniques.
“The girls were receptive to the skills they learned. We have been doing these skills with the clubs here on St. Croix and having the coaches come and do this with them reinforces what they’ve learned,” said Taylor Jones.
After practicing their skills, the young soccer players had the opportunity to play several rounds of soccer with one another.
“The visiting coaches said they were really impressed with the girls and the skill they have. They were also impressed with their focus and willingness to play in the hot sun,” Taylor Jones said.
Cedella Marley created Football is Freedom on a grassroots level. She has been an ambassador for the sport and provides opportunities that have not always existed for women.
Taylor Jones said they are very happy to be a part of the first clinic. “It definitely aligns with what our club is doing and the overall goal of women playing soccer in the Virgin Islands,” she said.
“One of the goals when we first started was how do we bring the love of football back for this generation of females. We want them to stay in love with the sport for as long as possible because it strengthens the national team,” she continued.
Visiting Coach Laura Busby, a college coach for the Air Force Academy, was one of the guests who assisted with the day’s training.
Young athletes take part in an afternoon of personal development. (Source photo by Diana Dias)
“We are working with young girls here on the island and exposing them to high level coaching and just providing opportunities for them to come out and learn some new skills,” said Busby.
“There are so many lessons you can learn through sport. Teamwork for one, communication I think in this day and age where everyone has a phone you lose the opportunity to kind of connect with each other and I think football in general is a way for young girls to put down their phones, come out and be active, but it also unites people,” she continued.
The young soccer players also participated in personal development workshops and created vision boards. The day concluded with a coach’s training session in the afternoon.
The Virgin Islands Port Authority advises travelers to arrive at least three hours before their scheduled departure time at Henry E. Rohlsen Airport (STX) and Cyril E. King Airport (STT). There has been an increase in the number of air travelers, leading to delays in the screening process, particularly in St. Croix. The Port Authority also reminds the public that weekends and holidays tend to be the busiest times at the airports.
It’s with extreme sadness that we announce the passing of Darlington Douglas, affectionately known as “Dalo,” “Bloody River,” “Lazarus,” or simply “Chef Dalo.”
Darlington Douglas
Born on March 11, 1974, in Grand Bay, Dominica, Darlington was the son of Bernard Douglas and Doreen Blanc.
At 12 years old, he moved to St. Thomas, USVI, and subsequently moved to Maine in 1997.
Darlington left this world far too soon on February 1, 2025, at his home in Buckfield, Maine.
He is remembered by Father-Bernard Douglas Sr. Mother-Doreen Blanc. Stepfather-Nyah Henderson. Stepmother-Eunipha Douglas. Daughter-Rayvn Douglas. Brothers-Sylvester Douglas, Bernard Douglas Jr. Jahudah Henderson, Nazari Henderson. Sisters-Nyby Douglas, Abina James, Ushie Henderson, Nayahshah Henderson. Aunts-Cecelia Martin, Ernie Douglas, Agustina ‘Tsis’ Blanc, Millicent Bellot, Claudette Xavier, Ferline Telemacque.Uncles-Sylvester “Sonny” Laurent, Eric Douglas, Kenneth “Nijah” Douglas (deceased), Curtis “Urban” Douglas, Manchile Henry, Joseph ‘Abat’ Pemberton, Lambert Baron. Nieces-Sue-Ann John Lewis, Teri Douglas, Tashelle Douglas, Abyena James, Malaiya James, Eyenga Litula-Muamba. Nephews-Emiah Douglas, Dominic Douglas, Merch James, Khaël James, Camillo jones, Judah Henderson, Mitchell Greer. Cousins-Danielle Dorival, Andre Martin, Giuffre Laurent, Aleia Laurent, Ashlee Douglas-Pickering, Jasmine Douglas, Mia Murphy, Monique “Nikki” Murphy, Malcom Murphy, Nijah Douglas, Neisha Douglas, Nigel Douglas, Isabella Douglas, Benaiah Jackson, Kurt Johnson, Aaron Renault, Claudette ‘Vovon’ Xavier. Brothers in law-Gerod James, Steven Greer. Sisters in law-Nadette Douglas, Shikanna Douglas. Special Friend and Neighbor – Linda. Precious family and friends too numerous to mention. Though his departure was unexpected, his life was anything but. He lived boldly, loved deeply, and left behind a legacy as colorful as the many names he carried throughout his journey. Rest in power, Dalo. Your love for life, music, food, and family will forever bloom in the hearts of those you touched.
A memorial service to honor and celebrate his incredible life will be held on March 1, 2025, at 10 a.m. at the Blyden Memorial Chapel in Altona, St. Thomas, USVI, and at 1 p.m. at Chandler Funeral Home in Bridgton, Maine. If possible, please wear shades of green to represent his love for all things plant and garden and his homeland – Dominica.
Funeral arrangement by Turnbulls Funeral Home and Crematory Services
Ribbons for a Cure, Inc., a local cancer awareness non-profit organization, is currently accepting applications for its 2025 Financial Assistance Program.
The program provides a one-time financial assistance benefit in the amount of $500 for cancer related prescription medication, diagnostic testing, or CT scans to individuals who have been diagnosed with cancer.
The Financial Assistance Program is available to cancer patients and survivors who have resided in the U.S. Virgin Islands permanently for the past three (3) years. The benefits will be awarded based on the availability of funds and may be used to fully or partially cover payments for cancer-related prescription medication, diagnostic testing or CT scans.
Funding for this program has been made possible through the contributions of businesses and individual donors throughout the community. Applications are available online at www.ribbonsforacure.net.
An unusual combination of flute, clarinet, and piano, this trio was initially formed for a festival concert, where brothers Anthony and Demarre McGill immediately bonded with Michael McHale. The players balance and blend their timbres with nuanced phrasing to create a dazzling listening experience.
Anthony McGill – Clarinet
Demarre McGill – Flute
Michael McHale – Piano
Venue: Prior-Jollek Hall – Antilles School Campus, St. Thomas
Adults – $30 Teachers – $10 Students – $5
6 p.m. – Courtyard opens with small meals and desserts from Amalia Café
Parents, Guardians, and Students Mark Your Calendars and Prepare for Success!
The State Assessment Office encourages everyone to be aware of test dates and support students in developing effective preparation strategies. Together, we can help all students strive for success during the designated test periods.
ACCESS for ELLs: January 8, 2025 – February 28, 2025
This summative English language proficiency assessment, part of WIDA’s suite of tests, is taken annually by English learners from kindergarten through grade 12. It monitors students’ progress in learning academic English and reflects WIDA’s belief that no single test fits all students.
Multi-State Alternate Assessment: March 10, 2025 – April 25, 2025
Designed for students with significant cognitive disabilities, MSAA aims to improve academic outcomes in Math, English Language Arts, and Science, preparing students for a range of post-secondary opportunities. Assessments include Math and English Language Arts (grades 3-8 and high school) and Science (grades 5, 8, and high school).
Smarter Balanced Assessment & Next Generation Science Standards: March 17, 2025 – April 16, 2025
This suite of standards-aligned assessments supports instruction and fosters student learning in Math and English Language Arts.
The NGSS assessments evaluate K-12 Science content standards, aligning with Next Generation Science Standards to promote critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
VIDE encourages parents and guardians to help students prepare by incorporating the following strategies:
Encourage students to set aside dedicated time each day for study and practice.
Ensure students get adequate sleep, a balanced diet, and stay physically active to support their mental and physical well-being.
Utilize practice tests, study guides, and classroom resources to review key concepts.
Talk with students about their goals, challenges, and progress to provide motivation and support.
Testing season is an opportunity for our students to showcase their learning and growth. We encourage families to play an active role in helping students prepare and thrive during these assessments. Together, we can create an environment that supports academic achievement and builds confidence in our learners. The VIDE wishes all students the best during this testing season.
To wrap up National Engineers Week, the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority returned to Bertha C. Boschulte (BCB) Middle School to host an engaging solar energy event for students. The WAPA Communications team led an interactive session where students made s’mores using a DIY solar oven while learning about the benefits of renewable energy and the vital role engineers play in developing projects like the three solar farms in the territory.
(Left to Right) Matthias Clarke, WAPA Mechanical Engineer I, Mone’t Lewis, WAPA Talent Acquisition Specialist, and Guivd Montoban, WAPA Network Assistant, at Central High School interacting with students on opportunities in engineering and paid summer internships at WAPA.
Through hands-on learning and discussions, students gained insight into the importance of sustainability and the career opportunities available in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). WAPA hopes events like these will inspire the next generation to consider careers in STEM and help shape the future of the U.S. Virgin Islands.
“At WAPA, we recognize that the future of the U.S. Virgin Islands depends on the bright minds of today’s students,” stated Shanell Petersen, Director of Communications, WAPA. “By engaging with young learners through hands-on experiences like the solar energy project at BCB, we aim to spark curiosity and inspire the next generation of engineers and innovators.”
In addition to outreach at the middle school level, WAPA Human Resources, Information Technology (IT) and Communications teams, alongside WAPA engineers, also attended the Central High School Career Awareness Fair yesterday. At the CHS Career Awareness Fair, WAPA actively engaged with high school students about the summer internship opportunities available and encouraged senior applications for the Alva C. McFarlane Scholarship. This scholarship provides substantial financial aid to students pursuing careers in engineering, technology, and other critical fields:
Bachelor’s Degrees – Up to $80,000 in funding
Associate’s/Technical Degrees – Up to $30,000 in funding
Eligible students are encouraged to apply before the deadline, February 28, 2025. Applications must be submitted online via the online portal. For scholarship inquiries, please contact Tracie Wells, Assistant Director of Human Resources, WAPA, at tracie.wells@viwapa.vi.
As WAPA continues investing in future talent, the Authority also invites qualified candidates to apply for open engineering positions. These roles offer opportunities to contribute to impactful projects that strengthen the territory’s energy and water infrastructure.
For more information about the current career opportunities, visit WAPA’s online career portal.
Senator Avery L. Lewis is sounding the alarm, calling for immediate and urgent action to address the escalating economic disparities that are threatening the stability of the maritime industries in both the U.S. Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands. With the specter of new tariffs looming, Senator Lewis is acutely aware of the potentially catastrophic impact these changes could have on local businesses, communities, and the broader economy. He emphasizes that swift and decisive action is not just desirable, but absolutely necessary to prevent irreversible harm to the region’s economic future.
“The proposed tariffs are not just a threat to the marine charter industry; they pose a direct risk to every facet of marine activity between the USVI and BVI,” Senator Lewis declared. “We must resolve this issue now—before the damage becomes insurmountable. It’s essential that both the USVI and BVI work together to find a solution that benefits all parties and protects our people’s livelihoods.”
The senator emphasizes that the economic survival of the Virgin Islands depends on collaboration, not division. Senator Lewis insists that inaction is not an option with stakes higher than ever before. A united approach between the USVI and BVI could lead to more significant economic opportunities and regional prosperity, benefiting all industries and communities in both territories.
“Our maritime sector is a cornerstone of our economy—supporting jobs, tourism, and commerce. If we don’t act quickly, we risk further destabilizing this vital industry,” Lewis warned. “We cannot afford delays. Our businesses, families, and workers deserve a fair playing field, and we must ensure that they get it—before it’s too late.”
Senator Lewis is unwavering in his commitment to engaging with all stakeholders—including business leaders, policymakers, and industry experts—from the USVI and BVI. He recognizes the importance of their input in finding solutions to secure a thriving and resilient maritime sector for future generations.
