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Francil R. Stanley Dies

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Francil R. Stanley Dies
White, five-petaled Pigeon Berry flowers (Source photo by Gail Karlsson)

A beautiful soul, Francil R. Stanley, better known as “SYL,” of the Golden Rock area on St. Croix departed this life on Oct. 2.

She was preceded in death by her father, David Jack Stanley; and brothers: Clive Dan Bartlette and Aldo Stanley.

She is survived by and leaves to mourn her mother, Cynthia Bartlette; daughter, Letisha Gladys Rodney; son, Michael Bridgewater; adopted daughter, Shanie Dore; sisters: Brenda Simmonds, Sherylyn Bartlette, Shelda Susie Roberts, Yvette Huggins, June Stanley, Carol Hendrickson and Julie Claxton; brothers: Clive Rivers, Orville Kembo Bartlette, Alphonso Tazzie Bartlette, Andy Bully Bartlette, Vernon Parris, Aron Merchant and Randolph Rudy Maynard; aunt, Laurene Dore; and uncles: Winston Dore and Charles Stanley.

She is also survived by sisters-in-law: Tryca Glori Bartlette, Verna Rivers, Carmen Maynard, Herscell Shelly Bartlette and Kishma Wilkins-Bartlette; brother-in-law, Earl Eran Simmonds; nephews: Kharlani Rivers, D’Aldo Stanley, T’Shaun and Jahleed Parris, Malachi Prosper, Anthony Iles, Robert Morton, Omar Wilkins, Antonio, Antoinette and Anthony Maynard, and T-Nardre Williams; and nieces: Natoya Toya Prentice, Tamica Morton, Maria Angel Thompson, Cacelia Kris and Cecelia Kressy Stanley, Tazz-ziel Tea Bartlette, Sherry Chapman, Kemeisha, Danella Bartlette, Taz-Naeja and Taz-Jaune’ Wilkin Bartlette, Sandi and J’Aron Merchant, Kayla Rivers, Sariyah Morton, Iyandla Iles and Omega Morton;

Other survivors include cousins: Brian and Denesha Dore, Tiffany Willett, Terrance Iles Julie Daniel, Cheryl, Denise, Keithley and Steve Parris, the entire Bartlette and  Stanley family of Cole Hill Nevis; special friends: Myrtle Fredericks and family, Averil and Bernadine Bernice George and family, Audrey Lescott, Sylvia Charles, Adella F. Prevost, Winifred Jonas and Bernadette Orr; as well as many more friends and family too numerous to mention.

The funeral service will be held Wednesday, Oct. 30, at Ebenezer Methodist Church, 195-196 Estate Richmond, Christiansted VI 00820

The viewing will be held at 9 a.m. followed by the service at 10 a.m. Burial will be at Kingshill Cemetery.

Francis Gerard Greenaway Dies

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Francis Gerard Greenaway Dies
Francis Gerard Greenaway

Francis Gerard Greenaway died on Sept. 29.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Benjamin and Louisa Greenaway.

He is survived by his wife, Jullian Greenaway; children: Timothy, Theodore, Kirsten, Julliett, Justin, JohnBaptiste, Dale, Francisco, Johnny and Aliyia Greenaway, Francis Greenaway Jr. and Danielle S. Greenaway-Thomas; and grandchildren: Sanijah and Rafijah Gris, Jazara Knight, Alphonse Powell III, McHale Thomas, Tyler Moore, Jessenia, Jabali, Jasoy, Naki, Shane, Shaniyka, Daniel, Zion, Kymani, J’Nasia, J’Moi, Jashonique, Diamond, Jahleah, Malika, Jamiah, Azil and JahSen-I Greenaway, Ja-Ana, Jahniquequa and JahSav-I Henry and Jordan McDowell.

He is also survived by great-grandchildren: Iyarah Star Regius, JahSani Gris, Julius, Synthia, Jayvien and Kai Greenaway, Hakim Barzey, Rania King, Sa-Ra-Hotep and Ka-Ra-Hotep McMurray; sisters: Orelia Georges, Eurelia, Victoria and Rachel Greenaway, Coraline Greenaway-Casimir and Margaret Rose Jervier; brothers: Joseph, Brodie, Leo and Kennedy Greenaway; and nieces and nephews: Vandel, Belinda, Sophia Greenaway, Lisa, Leo Daryl, Joanne, Joe and Matthew Greenaway, Caryl Greenaway-Hughes, Peter, Melvin and Iva Georges and Irene George.

He is also survived by other nieces and nephews: Germaine Christmas, Maulou, Anthony, Kerwin, Jillian, Tiffany, Wendy, Deian, Joan, Joanna, Maria and John Greenaway, and Brodie Greenaway Jr., Gabriel Toussaint, Roy and Imbert Prosper, Curtis Jervier, Patterson Ambo Sr., Vanessa Bellot, Clyde Ravalier, Sheamal and Jahmal Lestrade, Mary Mckenzie, Christabel Serrant, Roy Adams, George Christmas, Mary Ramie, Maria Deacon, Leslie and Lester LaRonde and LaVerne LaRonde-Ola-Niyi.

Other survivors include great nephews and great nieces: Shun, Shunnel, Shunna, Ella, Nils, Linnea, Aaliyah and Glenford Greenaway, Lishoi, Asante’, Ahsani and Ahsan Ambo, Lucas, Camron, Naphtali and Nehemiah LaRonde, Meckeem Daniel, Marcellus and Maximus Ola-Niyi, Davante Davis, Dajahney Maxwell, Michelle Mckenzie, Jeremy Bellot, Patterson Ambo, Jr., Daniel Watt, Yemaya, Yosef, Josh and Latoya Ravaliere, Shayna, Hezikiya and Shanique George, Nathan Telemaque, Keshana Sullivan and Colvin Georges Jr.; cousins: Shannon Johnson, Gibson Pascal and Lynton George; brothers-in-law: Patrick Casimir and Sylvester Lestrade; daughters-in-law: Vena, Nikki, Nez and Imara Greenaway; and son-in-law, Mark L. Thomas Sr.

The first viewing will be held from 4-6 p.m., Friday, Oct. 25, at Turnbull’s Funeral Home Chapel. The second viewing will be held at 9 a.m. followed by funeral services at 10 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 26, at Turnbull’s Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will be at Eastern Cemetery.

Lieutenant Governor Roach Offers USVI-PR Friendship Day Message

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Lieutenant Governor Roach Offers USVI-PR Friendship Day Message
Lt. Gov. Tregenza Roach talks about new to the territory – Optimum Global Insurance Company. (Facebook screenshot)

In recognition of October as Hispanic Heritage Month, it is my distinct honor to offer this message in commemorating the 60th anniversary of Virgin Islands/Puerto Rico Friendship Day.  This milestone signifies the historic legislative action to redesignate Columbus Day as a day to reflect on the strong relationship and the numerous cultural and historic connections between the Virgin Islands and our neighboring island of Puerto Rico.

I join the Virgin Islands/Puerto Rico Friendship Committee in honoring Luz Maria Guadalupe Luis during this year’s celebrations.  Mrs. Luis, the former First Lady of the Virgin Islands, holds the distinction for opening Government House to host the Reception Recognition Gala, which was held traditionally at a local private establishment.

The Luz Maria Luis Friendship Village is appropriately named in her honor, in recognition of her love and devotion to the people of the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico and her many acts of service.

I also extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Virgin Islands/Puerto Rico Friendship Committee’s past chairpersons/presidents, who are the 2024 honorees, along with Miss Chaselle Vianet McConnell Torres, St. Croix District Teacher of the Year.  Your leadership and varied contributions to the Virgin Islands community are appreciated and demonstrate your commitment to service.  You are well deserving of this prestigious honor.

I look forward to a jubilant series of celebrations as we come together in love and unity. Happy Virgin Islands/Puerto Rico Friendship Day to all!

Lt. Gov. Tregenza Roach Esq.

Burke to Lead Virgin Islands Democratic Party as State Chair

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Burke to Lead Virgin Islands Democratic Party as State Chair
Carol Burke has been elected new state chair of the Democratic Party of the Virgin Islands. (Submitted photo)

The Democratic Party of the Virgin Islands has appointed Carol Burke to be its new state chair (2024-2026).  This announcement is the party’s effort to maintain internal stability, secure its structure and strengthen its viability.

In the past, the election of the Democratic Party’s offices has been included in the primary elections; however, these elections were derailed when the supervisor of elections notified them of the Elections System’s decision.

On June 11, 20024, Elections Supervisor Caroline Fawkes wrote, “The supervisor will not be conducting party offices during the Primary Election scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 3, 2024.”

This decision was made as the party was simultaneously preparing for the primary elections of its senatorial candidates and other board seats, and its plans, preparations and participation in the 2024 Democratic Presidential Convention in August. As such, its executive committee postponed the party office elections, a move that was carefully considered in the party’s best interest.

Burke, a seasoned veteran with over 30 years of service to the Democratic Party, is ready to take on the challenges and celebrate the victories that lie ahead. Her extensive experience, including roles such as president of Young Democrats, majority leader of the 22nd Legislature, 18 years as National Committee Woman, two terms as vice chair and conventions caucus coordinator, and most recently, delegation chair and whip chair for the 2024 Convention Nomination of Vice President Kamala Harris, makes her a formidable leader.

In pivoting to the top seat, Burke said, “I am overjoyed and moved by this opportunity.  I am humbled. I made a firm decision to pursue my goal as state chair. I believe in the tenets of the Democratic Party and understand that they fundamentally apply to the greater good. As a Virgin Islander, I fully appreciate that politics is a means of achieving progress for our people and that conditions can serve as an equalizer.

“Our best possibility is our preparation, and I envision a Democratic agenda aligned with aspirations and promises. I pay homage to all Democrats who have served as state chairs before me, with extraordinary and distinct recognition to Marylyn Stapleton and the late Tito Morales. I also thank our former chairman, Stedmann Hodge, for his leadership. I am further encouraged by the support from members locally and nationally, and I look forward to sealing our party’s wins in November,” said Burke.

USVI, Puerto Rico Ties Celebrated Ahead of 60th Friendship Day

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USVI, Puerto Rico Ties Celebrated Ahead of 60th Friendship Day
Officials from the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico come together during a Senate meeting Friday to recognize and celebrate Virgin Islands-Puerto Rico Friendship Day. (Photo from V.I. Legislature Facebook page)

Current and former presidents of the Virgin Islands-Puerto Rico Friendship Committee and the mayor of Vieques joined the legislature’s Committee on Culture, Youth, Aging, Sports, and Parks Friday to celebrate Virgin Islands-Puerto Rico Friendship Day ahead of its 60th anniversary on Monday.

Close ties between the neighboring territories benefit both island archipelagos, said Vieques Mayor José A. Corcino Acevedo. Tourism, trade, and family ties bind the islands together.

Corcino celebrated direct flights from St. Croix to Vieques that started in August. A new hospital on the southern Spanish Virgin Island could help strengthen medical ties between the islands. Such flights have come and go, sometimes seasonally, sometimes with years between. Vieques was also actively recruiting police officers, teachers, and doctors, he said.

“I’m sure that good years are coming to strengthen this union,” Corcino said via a translator.

Former Governor Ralph Paiewonsky signed the Virgin Islands-Puerto Rico Friendship Day bill into law Feb. 20, 1964, establishing the second Monday in October as an official celebration of the ties that bind the islands — supplanting the traditional Columbus Day or Discovery Day.

Former Friendship Committee President Vera Falu Allende said she feared young Virgin Islanders were not aware enough of the importance in celebrating Virgin Islands-Puerto Rico camaraderie. She said a swiftly changing culture was leaving significant traditions in the past.

Falu, a former St. Croix hospital chairman, was born in Puerto Rico and moved to St. Croix and fell in love with the Virgin Islands, she said.

“Eventually we became part of America, but our bonds of friendship began when we were Caribbean people,” she said, adding those and other centuries-old ties came first.

Falu said people escaping slavery in the Virgin Islands took to sea to reach the relatively safe and free Puerto Rico islands centuries ago.

“They left St. Croix, jumped into the sea, abandoning a horrible life of enslavement,” she said. “A lot of people of Hispanic and Virgin Islands descent live there.

Falu urged older people to pass cultural heritage along to younger Virgin Islanders and Boricuas, including vocabulary and sayings, recipes and cooking styles, songs and stories.

“We speak half Crucian, half Puerto Rican,” she said.

At one point in the hearing, committee Chair Sen. Angel Bolques and Sen. Franklin Johnson started speaking in Spanish with the Vieques mayor, when more people joined in, some in English some in Spanish, the translator became confused as to when should be translated — much to the amusement of those present. In all, each of the senators present spoke at least some Spanish.

“Every one of my colleagues today spoke Spanish — every single one,” Bolques said. “Y’all remember that.”

Like many of the lawmakers, Sen. Diane Capehart said she was a proud Virgin Islander who has close family ties in Puerto Rico.

Luis Torres, current chairman of the Virgin Islands-Puerto Rico Friendship Committee, asked that the Senate allocate additional funds for future celebrations.

“This funding will be vital as we plan for future celebrations in the years to come, which we envision as landmark events that will highlight the strength of our cultural bonds and ensure that this cherished friendship continues to thrive for generations,” Torres said.

In 2024 thus far, the Friendship Committee, which is made up of volunteers, had collected more than $146,000 in donations, Torres said.

Elections Supervisor Assures Smooth Voting Process for Upcoming General Election

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Elections Supervisor Assures Smooth Voting Process for Upcoming General Election
Steps put in place to begin early voting were laid out in a report presented to the Board of Elections on Thursday. (Source photo by Diana Dias)

The head of the Elections System of the Virgin Islands reassured the Board of Elections that all necessary arrangements are in place to ensure a smooth and orderly voting process for the upcoming General Election. Elections Supervisor Caroline Fawkes provided this assurance during a scheduled meeting with the board on Thursday.

Election preparations were one of the topics covered at the Oct. 10 scheduled meeting. Board members attending virtually and in person also reviewed submitted correspondence related to voting procedures. They also received the latest figures on voters’ registration and heard the list of names for certified write-in candidates.

Board members also approved the fiscal year 2025 budget for both the board and the Elections System, each slated for $2.5 million in funding apiece.

In-person voting is scheduled for Nov. 5, but early voting is set to begin on Oct. 14, territory-wide. Testing of voting machines to be used in early voting took place late Thursday afternoon. Fawkes also updated the board on the number of certified write-in candidates appearing on the ballot, adding that there may be additions to that list.

“The Elections System is fully prepared to carry out early voting starting Monday,” the supervisor said. The report presented at Thursday’s meeting included a list of eleven voting centers where in-person voting will take place. Voters casting ballots between October 14 and October 28 can visit the Elections System Office at the Banco Popular Building, second floor at Lockhart Gardens, St. Thomas; St. Croix voters can cast ballots starting Monday at the Elections System Office at Sunny Isle Shopping Center.

St. John early voters can visit the Elections System Office at the Marketplace starting Oct. 21 through Oct. 28. Voting hours on all three islands are 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The names of certified write-in candidates appearing in the supervisor’s report included the offices they’re seeking.

In the St. Thomas-St. John district:

a. Attorney Mark Hodge  — Delegate for the Sixth Constitutional Convention

b. Amy Thomas-Lawson — Board of Elections (St. John)

c. Lydia Hendricks — Delegate for the Sixth Constitutional Convention

In the St. Croix district:

a. Genevieve Whitaker — Delegate for the  Sixth Constitutional Convention

b. Cheryl V. Charles — Candidate, 36th Legislature

The amount of registered voters on the system’s roster is 30,607. Since January, the system has picked up 809 new registrants, including 201 in September.

On Nov. 5, voters on St. Thomas can cast their ballots at Tutu Park Mall, at the UVI Eldridge Blake Sports and Fitness Center, and at two public schools: Charlotte Amalie High School in the Sprung Building and at the Ivanna Eudora Kean High School in the cafeteria.

The Guy H. Benjamin Elementary School in Coral Bay, St. John, is being returned to service for in-person balloting on Election Day. The Julius E. Sprauve School in Cruz Bay is St. John’s other designated voting center on Nov. 5.

St. Croix has five voting centers on Election Day: the Claude O. Markoe Elementary School; the Central High School Gymnasium, St. Joseph’s Catholic School in Frederiksted, St. Dunstan’s School in Orange Grove, and the D.C. Canegata Recreation Complex in Christiansted.

‘Caribbean Faces’ Seeks to Foster Key Conversations About Mental Health

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‘Caribbean Faces’ Seeks to Foster Key Conversations About Mental Health
Tamara Mohamed, co-owner of “Greater Changes” and creator of “Caribbean Faces.”(Submitted photo)

“Caribbean Faces,” a digital initiative, launched the first phase of its mental health and storytelling project on World Mental Health Day, which is celebrated annually on Oct. 10.

Crucian-born Tamara Mohammed, co-owner of “Greater Changes,” a behavior health and wellness agency, has taken conversations around mental health from out of the office and into the Virgin Islands with her Caribbean Faces mental health initiative.

“The reason I got into the mental health field is because I had an aunt who was diagnosed with schizophrenia. I grew up watching her experience vast bouts of instability, hospital stays, and re-stabilization, only for the story to repeat itself in perpetuity. The limited mental health support in the Virgin Islands and my aunt’s own struggles inspired me to pursue a career in professional counseling with a specialization in trauma management. It was through my studies that I developed a particular interest in the intersections between culture and mental health,” Mohammed said.

“A lot of the feedback clients share with me during our sessions is isolation and the inability to connect with their community. “Caribbean Faces” offers a bridge for people who may not have the courage to speak about their struggles out loud but need to see relatability reflected in their struggles from their peers,” Mohammed added.

“Caribbean Faces” offers a catalog of storytelling through photography and video interviews using diverse voices. “Diversity is a big part of this project. Diversity is the foundation of our Caribbean community and informs a lot about the complexities of our culture. We wanted anyone who viewed our website to find reflections of themselves in the interviewees we captured. This is where we lower the walls of isolation. This is where real community happens. Between sponsorship from “Greater Changes” and the Virgin Islands Council on the Arts, I have big dreams for Caribbean Faces,” Mohammed said.

The future of “Caribbean Faces” is one that is inclusive of the entire Caribbean. Inspired by the “Humans of New York” social media platform, which showcases real-life stories from everyday New Yorkers, Mohamed dreams of recreating a Caribbean version in which the unique stories of the people in our region are documented and uplifted while also maintaining a focus on mental health.

“I would like to engage in a collaborative relationship with community stakeholders. This could include mental health-centered organizations, professionals, or even people from the community who wish to share their stories. This initiative belongs to us and is a reflection of us. The success of “Caribbean Faces” relies on community involvement,” Mohammed said.

For questions or interest in getting involved in the “Caribbean Faces Mental Health Initiative,” Mohamed can be reached at tamaramohammed@greaterchangesllc.com.

 

 

New Era for Transportation in the Virgin Islands: Ride-Sharing May Be on the Horizon

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New Era for Transportation in the Virgin Islands: Ride-Sharing May Be on the Horizon
Some lawmakers, residents and visitors believe ride-sharing has a place in the Virgin Islands. (Shutterstock image)

Ride-sharing, such as Uber and Lyft, is available in every U.S. state and many countries worldwide and it is a multibillion-dollar business, according to Statista.com. Ride-sharing is not available in the Virgin Islands, although many people agree it would benefit residents, visitors, and the economy. Social media responses affirm that the service is desired and needed, with 100 positive responses in less than a week.

One compelling reason in favor of ride-sharing is the lack of public transportation after 6 p.m., residents say. Taxi-vans do not run unless contracted by individuals for transportation. Workers cannot get home if they don’t have access to a vehicle.

Visitors who want to see the island often say they don’t want to drive on the left side of the street or on two-lane roads littered with potholes. There have been reports of travelers stranded at the airports because visitors thought taxis or Uber would be available.

Residents and visitors who enjoy adult beverages have no option for safe transportation. Ride-sharing would undoubtedly cut down on arrests and accidents caused by drivers under the influence, according to at least one potential vendor.

Taxi-vans don’t cover the entire island, so people can’t always get where they want and need to go, said another potential vendor. Some end up walking or getting a ride from friends.

Sen. Samual Carrion, St. Croix, is working with a team to write legislation to allow the service to be licensed in the territory.

Carrion said he hopes to have a bill for the Legislature to consider by the end of the year. Once he drafts a bill, it will be considered by a committee – perhaps Government Affairs or Housing and Transportation. If approved, the bill will be discussed and approved by the Rules and Judiciary Committee and then the entire Legislature will vote on the matter.

The Licensing and Consumer Affairs Department also had regulatory authority over businesses. On behalf of Commissioner H. Nathalie Hodge and Horace Graham, asst. commissioner, Diane G. John, special assistant, replied to questions from the Source. According to the email, ride-sharing applicants would need 1) a software development business license, 2) taxi or limousine licenses for all vehicles and drivers, 3) proof of insurance for the company and drivers, 4) inspections, safety certifications and background checks for drivers, as required by DLCA.

Several people are setting up ride-sharing businesses but have not actually begun operations. One company has already been providing the service.

Sanderson Monroe and VI Ubah have been operating for almost three years on St. Croix. When anyone asks, he says he doesn’t own the vehicle he is using for tours, excursions and concierge services, so he doesn’t need a taxi medallion or limousine license. Monroe said he is not breaking any codes by providing the service. Additionally, he said he has six contractors driving for his company.

“Business is steady,” Monroe said.

Patrick Farrell announced he is waiting for a change in the V.I. Code that addresses ride-sharing before he begins his service. Also, he has received unfavorable comments from taxi drivers who fear the competition.

Farrell said he wants to offer options for getting around after 6 p.m. and because taxi-vans don’t cover the island.

“Ride-sharing and taxis can absolutely co-exist. They are across the nation and the whole world,” he said. “I am patiently waiting for (senators) them to bring it to the floor.”

Others waiting to launch their businesses include VI Ride, VI Hail and Digicab.

 

Governor’s Summit Aims To Boost Local Workforce, Address Labor Shortages

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Governor’s Summit Aims To Boost Local Workforce, Address Labor Shortages

Human resource professionals, job seekers and contractors gathered in Cruz Bay to consider ways to produce a skilled workforce in the Virgin Islands. Friday’s session on St. John was the third in a series sponsored by the Virgin Islands Labor Department.

About 40 people filled the seats at the Cleone Creque Legislative Conference Room for the Governor’s Workforce Development Summit. They gathered to hear panel discussions, attend workshops and learn about training opportunities.

Labor Commissioner Gary Molloy moderated one of the morning panel discussions on strategies for building resilient workforce development. “We have to make sure that every Virgin Islander who wants a job, who needs a job should be able to get a job,” the commissioner said.

Charlene Hodge, director of Workforce Development for the Labor Department, said the most apparent challenge is a shortage of available workers. With an estimated workforce of 42,000, she said, about 40,000 are already employed. That leaves about 2,000 people who, if properly trained, could fill the needs of employers seeking skilled labor.

The labor shortage is especially keen on St. John, where one Labor representative said the potential labor pool is listed in double digits. “We only have 26 postings on St. John, but I’m pretty much sure we have more jobs than 26,” said Assistant Workforce Development Director Deitra Powell.

She said one of her duties was to engage the island’s employers and let them know about the resources offered by her agency that might help them meet their needs for skilled workers.

One of the greatest challenges, Hodge said, was trying to place applicants with immediate needs, like providing for their families, but lacking the skills needed to produce a living wage. Training is available, she said, but training takes time.

Molloy urged employers to register their opportunities with the Labor Department. By doing so, he said, job listings can be posted on the agency’s web-based directory, where more potential employees can see them.

Job training advisors were also on hand with information on where job seekers can sign up for skill development courses. Advisor Troy Felicien showed off a list of training classes offered by 13 different resources, including Wheatley Skills Center.

The most popular courses, he said, are medical assistant and air conditioning and refrigeration systems. There was also a culinary arts program offered through UVI’s Center for Excellence in Leadership and Learning.

Interest in training opportunities was apparent at the St. Croix session held Tuesday and Thursday’s session on St. Thomas, Felicien said.

The Friday session moderated by Lt. Gov. Tregenza Roach ended with a panel discussion with a view to the future, highlighting the needs of the local marine industry.

Celebrate Virgin Islands-Puerto Rico Friendship Day With a Night of Shared Music and Culture

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Celebrate Virgin Islands-Puerto Rico Friendship Day With a Night of Shared Music and Culture
Tri-M Music Honor Society will host a free concert in celebration of Virgin Islands-Puerto Rico Friendship Day Sunday. (Shutterstock image)

In a grand gesture of cultural unity and musical celebration, the Antilles School campus at Prior-Jollek Hall will be the setting for a unique concert honoring Virgin Islands-Puerto Rico Friendship Day. Scheduled for Sunday, this free community event promises to bring together the rich musical traditions of both the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico under the direction of esteemed conductor Gylchris Sprauve.

Hosted by the Tri-M Music Honor Society, in cooperation with the Virgin Islands/Puerto Rico Friendship Committee, the concert will showcase a collaborative performance by the Virgin Islands-Puerto Rico Friendship Chamber Orchestra, with musicians from both territories coming together. Sherwin Williams, She’Coy Jones, Eljhaie Brathwaite, and Rivert Díaz are among the talented musicians set to perform, promising a vibrant display of talent and collaboration. The event will also feature the music of celebrated composers from both regions, including works by Emile “Milo” Francis, César Concepción, Raymond LaMotta, Marsvyn David, and the folkloric VI Quelbé Folk Music ensemble.

Gylchris Sprauve, whose direction brings these musicians together, arranged this concert in collaboration with the Virgin Islands/Puerto Rico Friendship Committee, which has helped to fund the event.

A key supporter of this initiative is Brandon Reburn, sponsor of the Tri-M Music Honor Society, whose experience living in Puerto Rico for three years and residing on St. Thomas for nine years has shaped his appreciation for the holiday. Reburn, having worked with many of the performers, underscores the event’s significance. “Tri-M has always had the goal of spreading joy through music and creating unity within the community, and this concert embodies that mission.”

Tri-M Music Honor Society officers—Malachi Yoder (president), Teagan Campbell (historian), Eli Blondeau (secretary), Ajay Mirpuri (treasurer), and Tanmay Totwani (vice president)—have played an integral role in organizing this concert.

“I see it as a good way to show music to the community, which is always important to experience new forms of music they haven’t heard before,” Yoder remarked.

“This concert is not just about connecting with the Antilles School community but also with the greater Virgin Islands and Puerto Rican communities,” Campbell added. 

 

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