Caribbean Community Theatre continues its 41st season with STEEL MAGNOLIAS – a tragicomedy by Robert Harling.
(Submitted photo)
There are six performances over two weekends of this playat CCT: Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., April 17-18 and 24-25, 2026, and two matinee shows at 4 p.m. on Sunday, April 19 and 26.
This play is set in Truvy’s beauty salon in Louisiana, where all the ladies who are anybody come to have their hair done. Helped by her new assistant, Annelle, Truvy dispenses shampoos and free advice to the town’s rich curmudgeon, an eccentric millionaire, the local social leader, and Shelby, who is about to marry a “good ole boy.” Based on a true story of the playwright’s family, this beautifully written play is filled with hilarious repartee and acerbic but humorously revealing verbal collisions.
“…a skillfully crafted, lovingly evoked picture of eccentricity in the small-town South…” –Drama-Logue
“Harling has given his women sharp, funny dialogue…The play builds to a conclusion that is deeply moving.”
– New York Daily News
Christine Thomas directs the cast of Steel Magnolias: Malerie Gleason, Azadi Knight, Beth Moss Mahar, Heather McRae, Kathleen Minnis and Lynn Senter.
-For reservations, discounted tickets, more information, or for handicap assistance, email: eileencct@gmail.com.
Tickets are $20 for adults; $18 for seniors (age 65+); $15 for college students and CCT members; $10 for students/children under age 18, and may be purchased at the CCT box office (FOR CASH ONLY) prior to each show, which opens 45 minutes before curtain.
Performances are held at the Caribbean Community Theatre at #18 Estate Orange Grove in Christiansted, St. Croix.
CCT productions are jointly supported by a grant from the Virgin Islands Council on the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts.
This show is also co-sponsored by Susan & Crystal Atkins-Weathers, Debby Babb/Coldwell Banker, J. Benton Construction, Cheeseburger in Paradise, Marshall + Sterling Insurance/Baker Magras & Associates, Team Consultants, The VIVOT Group, Armrey Industries and Crucian Gold.
CCT — bringing live theater to St. Croix for 41 seasons!
Grace Newton, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, was born on December 14, 1953, and was returned to the Earth peacefully on March 27, 2026. She lived a life marked by adventure, and devotion to her family, leaving behind a legacy of strength and cherished memories that will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her.
Grace Newton
Grace was a woman of warmth and resilience, whose presence brought comfort and joy to many. She found her greatest happiness in her role as a grandmother, nurturing her family with unwavering love and care. Her outspoken spirit, wisdom and generous heart touched all who had the privilege of knowing her.
She is lovingly survived by her daughters, Taji Middleton, Noreli Auguste, and Ramona Newton. She also leaves to cherish her memory her beloved grandchildren: Dominique Arzu, Davonte Arzu, Jamier Parker, Jaeden Parker, Emily Goode, Kayden Smalls, Memunatu Bangura, and Ramonatu Bangura. In addition, she is survived by her three brothers, four sisters, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends too numerous to mention.
Her family will hold a private Memorial on her Birthday.
She will be deeply missed but remembered for her humor, enduring love, her toughness, and the countless memories she gave us.
May your next journey be filled with abundance of Peace.
Committee on Culture, Youth, Aging, Sports, and Parks
10:00 A.M.
Frits E. Lawaetz Legislative Conference Room
Frits E. Lawaetz Legislature Building, St. Croix (file photo)
The Committee on Culture, Youth, Aging, Sports, and Parks will reconvene for a critical oversight hearing to examine investment, accountability, and completion timelines associated with two major capital projects: the Paul E. Joseph Stadium and the Clinton E. Phipps Horse Racing Track. This hearing reflects a renewed and necessary commitment to transparency, accountability, and measurable progress following prior proceedings, including the July 2025 hearing, where significant issues remained unresolved and key deliverables were not met. These projects represent more than infrastructure; they reflect a promise to the people of the Virgin Islands, and this Committee is committed to ensuring that promise is fulfilled with integrity, urgency, and accountability.
BLOCK I 10:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M.
“Financial and Administrative Oversight of the Paul E. Joseph Stadium Project”
This block will examine the financial and administrative oversight of the Paul E. Joseph Stadium project following the postponement of scheduled hearings in November 2025 and February 2026. The Committee will require clear updates, address unresolved issues, and enforce full accountability relative to the originally projected December 2025 completion timeline.
Agency Roles and Focus Areas:
• Office of Management and Budget (OMB) – Provide a detailed report on historical appropriations and current expenditures. The Committee expects transparency regarding any recent budget reallocations or shortfalls that may have impacted the project’s timely completion.
• Department of Property and Procurement (DPP) – Address the status of contractor performance, including any procurement delays, contract amendments, or unresolved vendor issues that may be affecting final project delivery.
• Department of Public Works (DPW) – Present an update on current construction progress, agency coordination efforts, and confirm whether the December 2025 completion target remains feasible. The Committee seeks clarity on progress since July and explanations for any missed milestones.
• Department of Sports, Parks, and Recreation (DSPR) – Provide an operational readiness assessment of the facility, including which amenities are complete, what remains outstanding, and what is required to make the stadium fully accessible for public use.
• Office of Disaster Recovery (ODR) – Review funding disbursements, contractor oversight, and compliance with all applicable federal and local regulations. The Committee requests a summary of all ODR-administered grants supporting this project.
• GEC, LLC / Coastal Systems USVI – Deliver a comprehensive update on construction deliverables, identify remaining tasks, and explain any delays related to change orders, materials, or workforce that could impact the project’s timeline.
Invited Testifiers:
Honorable Jean-Pierre L. Oriol, Commissioner, VI Department of Planning and Natural Resources
Honorable Lisa M. Alejandro, Commissioner, VI Department of Property and Procurement
Honorable Derek A. Gabriel, Commissioner, VI Department of Public Works
Honorable Vincent Roberts, Commissioner, VI Department of Sports, Parks, and Recreation
Mr. Julio Rhymer, Director, Office of Management & Budget
Ms. Adrienne L. Williams-Octalien, Director, USVI Office of Disaster Recovery
Mr. John Wessel, Director of Operations, GEC, LLC / Coastal Systems USVI
LUNCH 1:00 P.M. – 1:30 P.M.
BLOCK II 1:30 P.M. – 4:30 P.M.
“Operational Status and Financial Oversight of the Clinton E. Phipps Racetrack and the Horse Racing
Initiative Fund”
This block will assess the current operational status of the Clinton E. Phipps Racetrack on St. Thomas, including any outstanding construction, regulatory, and logistical issues, and will receive testimony on delays related to permitting, funding gaps, and inter-agency coordination. The Committee will examine revenues from past racing events and require a detailed accounting of receipts and disbursements, with particular focus on the Horse Racing Initiative Fund, including its balance, recent expenditures, and district-level allocations, to ensure transparency, accountability, and proper use of funds supporting racetrack improvements and horsemen associations in both districts.
Invited Testifiers:
Honorable Vincent Roberts, Commissioner, VI Department of Sports, Parks, and Recreation
Mr. Raymond Williams, Director, Virgin Islands Lottery
Mr. Hugo Hodge, Jr., Chairman, USVI Horseracing Commission
Mr. Robert E. Huckabee, III, President and CEO, Southland Gaming
TUESDAY,
APRIL 21, 2026
Committee on Budget, Appropriations, and Finance
12:00 P.M.
Frits E. Lawaetz Legislative Conference Room
WEDNESDAY,
APRIL 22, 2026
Committee on Health, Hospitals, and Human Services
9:00 A.M.
Site Visits
The Committee on Health, Hospitals, and Human Services is finalizing arrangements for a series of official site visits on the island of St. John, now rescheduled for Wednesday, April 22, 2026, between 9:00 A.M. and 3:00 P.M., and respectfully invites your participation in this important initiative. Please note that this date reflects a change from the previously anticipated schedule.
These site visits form part of the Committee’s ongoing oversight efforts to evaluate the operational status, service delivery, and facility conditions of key healthcare and human services institutions serving the residents of St. John.
Your presence and engagement are highly valued as we work to ensure that the people of the Virgin Islands receive accessible, efficient, and high-quality services.
The scheduled visits will include the following facilities:
• Department of Human Services — Senior Centers (2)
• Department of Human Services — Head Start Program
• Department of Health — Morris DeCastro Clinic
• Myrah Keating Smith Community Health Center
This initiative will provide members with the opportunity to engage directly with administrators and staff, observe facility operations, and gain firsthand insight into the delivery of services within the community.
THURSDAY,
APRIL 23, 2026
Committee on Rules and Judiciary
10:00 A.M.
Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall
Please be advised that the 36th Legislature of the Virgin Islands’ Committee on Rules and Judiciary has scheduled a hearing for Thursday, April 23, 2026, at 10:00 A.M. in the Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall on St. Thomas.
The purpose of the hearing is to receive testimonies from the Governor’s Nominees and to consider the following legislative measures:
BLOCK I 10:00 A.M – 12:00 P.M.
GOVERNOR’S NOMINEES
Ms. Renee M. Andre, Esq., Judge, Superior Court of the Virgin Islands, Division of St. Thomas – St. John
Honorable Denise M. Francois, Justice, Supreme Court of the Virgin Islands
BLOCK II 12:00 P.M. – 1:00 P.M.
Bill No. 36-0009 A resolution honoring and commending Mr. Steven van Beverhoudt for his years of dedicated service and numerous contributions to the people of the Virgin Islands
Bill No. 36-0207 An act amending title 3 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 25, subchapter VI, by adding section 590d and title 24 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 1, by adding section 24 requiring employers to grant parents or legal guardians of a child with a diagnosed disability, two hours per month of paid leave to attend the child’s medical appointments
Bill No. 36-0236 An act amending title 33 Virgin Islands Code, subtitle 3, chapter 111, section 3061 by increasing the amount of money that is to remain in the Virgin Islands Insurance Guaranty Fund before any interest can be deposited into the General Fund
Bill No. 36-0258 An act reprogramming administrative fees resulting from the bonds issued for the Fortress Investment Group transfer for various projects and initiatives to enhance the economic development of St. Croix and to be deposited into the Budget Stabilization Fund
Bill No. 36-0232 An act amending Act No. 8018 to authorize the disposal of green waste using controlled incineration technologies, including air curtain incinerators, and for other purposes
FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2026
Committee on Disaster Recovery, Infrastructure and Planning
“A Symphony of Culture and Connection Across the Diaspora”
The Afro-Caribbean Steel and Brass Orchestra plays “A Symphony of Culture and Connection Across the Diaspora” Saturday. (Submitted photo)
Saturday, April 18
At the Prior-Jollek Hall, Antilles Campus, St. Thomas
Honoring its musical heritage and shaping the future.
Under the direction of Dion Parson, The Afro-Caribbean Steel and Brass Orchestra is a crosscultural large ensemble blending steel pan traditions, jazz brass and winds, and African-Caribbean rhythms to bring the musical stories of the diaspora to life through powerful, story-driven performance.
Rooted in rhythmic traditions such as African drumming, Caribbean forms, New Orleans jazz, and Western classical music, the orchestra creates new works that reflect the living continuum of the diaspora. Through performances, recordings, and educational engagement, the ensemble fosters crosscultural understanding, celebrates community histories, and advances an inclusive, globally resonant orchestral voice.
“An orchestra born from the winds of history and the fire of the Caribbean”
Event Schedule
6 p.m. — Courtyard Opens with meals from Chef Nibbs & Wine/Desserts from Amalia Café
7 p.m. — Concert Begins
Tickets: Adults $30, Teachers $10, Students $5 and Children under 10 years old are for Free but need a ticket to secure a seat
Ticket Sale Online & information:
Visit our website: www.theforumusvi.org
Or Google: The Forum – Promotix
Email: theforumusvi@gmail.com
Phone: (646) 725-3353
Venue
PJ Hall, Antilles School Campus, St. Thomas
Afro-Caribbean Steel & Brass Orchestra
Directed by Dion Parson
The Afro-Caribbean Steel & Brass Orchestra is a groundbreaking large ensemble project and marks the premiere of a bold new musical vision rooted in the performance traditions of the African diaspora.
Conceived and directed by internationally acclaimed musician, educator, and cultural ambassador Dion Parson, the orchestra brings together a dynamic 14-piece ensemble that bridges the sonic worlds of steel pan, jazz brass, and African-Caribbean rhythm.
Featuring three steel pan voices, three master hand drummers, brass and woodwinds, and a full rhythm section, the ensemble reimagines what an orchestra can be merging the structural depth of a jazz big band with the harmonic richness of Caribbean traditions and the pulse of Afro-Latin and African rhythms.
This is not a traditional symphonic model.
It is a living, breathing ensemble designed for storytelling through sound.
Through original compositions, improvisation, and culturally rooted arrangements, the AfroCaribbean Steel & Brass Orchestra creates an immersive experience that moves fluidly across genres, geographies, and generations. Each performance is both a concert and a conversation—connecting audiences to the shared histories and evolving expressions of the diaspora.
As a premiere project, the orchestra represents a significant artistic milestone, offering a fresh and necessary voice within today’s global music landscape—one that is as intellectually grounded as it is rhythmically alive.
Band Members:
Brandon Bain (St. Vincent & Granada) – Vocals
Ron Blake (U.S. Virgin Islands) – Tenor/Flute
Sherwin Williams (U.S. Virgin Islands) – Alto Sax
Melvin Jones (Tennessee)– Trumpet/Flugelhorn
Jeffery Miller (New Orleans) – Trombone
Eljhaie Brathwaithe (U.S. Virgin Islands) – Steel Pan
Ronald Lee (U.S. Virgin Islands) – Double Guitar Pan
Le’ Roi Simmonds (U.S. Virgin Islands) – Double Seconds
Carlton Holmes (New Mexico) – Piano / Keys
Uriel Rogers (U.S. Virgin Islands) – Bass
Alioune Faye (Senegal) – African Perc 1
Backa Niang (Senegal) – African Perc 2
Danny Sadownick (Bronx, New York)- Latin Percussion
Dion Parson (U.S. Virgin Islands) – Drums
JahQuan Richards (U.S. Virgin Islands) – Engineer
Torian (U.S. Virgin Islands) – Assistant Engineer
Countries / Islands of Musical Reference for our Musical Sound Stories
1. Senegal (West Africa)
2. Trinidad and Tobago (Soca / Calypso)
3. Martinique and Guadeloupe – (Zuke / Compa)
4. Tortola (British Virgin Islands) – Funji Music
5. St. Thomas (US Virgin Islands) – Quelbe / Soca / Calypso
Due to unpredictable weather conditions, operational changes can occur. Weather will be monitored closely throughout the day.
The Virgin Islands Department of Education advises the public that following the 6 a.m. weather update from the National Weather Service, all public schools will open on their regular schedule today, Monday, April 13.
The Department has closely monitored weather conditions impacting the Territory and, based on the latest updates and recommendations, it has been determined that public schools can open for normal operations. Weather patterns and shifts can occur throughout the day. VIDE will remain vigilant in the event that operational changes are needed. At this time, the decision has been made to have public schools open on Monday, April 13.
Important Reminder:
Exercise caution during travel
Be mindful of localized weather conditions
Updates will be issued as needed by the VIDE, follow official platforms for accurate information
Exterior hardening work at the Women’s Coalition of St. Croix’s Crisis Center, with scaffolding now in place as part of federally supported resilience upgrades. (Submitted photo)
A federally funded mitigation program designed to strengthen the Virgin Islands’ economy and infrastructure is beginning to take shape, with nearly $25 million now tied to projects aimed at helping businesses withstand future disasters.
Funded through Community Development Block Grant – Mitigation dollars allocated by Congress following the 2017 hurricanes, the initiative focuses on reducing risk before the next crisis hits — while keeping businesses operational and communities supported in the meantime.
“This is about prevention,” said Donnie E. Dorsett, who oversees the economic resilience and revitalization component of the program. “How do we keep businesses open, people employed, and services running — even when we’re hit again?”
So far, 26 projects have been selected, representing approximately $24.9 million in funding across a cross-section of the territory’s economy — from small businesses and nonprofits to hotels, farms, and critical infrastructure.
The largest allocations include $6 million for the VI Economic Development Authority and $3.5 million for Our Town Frederiksted, $2.2 million for Royale Systems, LLC to reinforce their telecommunications facility, along with other major investments in hospitality and tourism, such as Concordia Resort Hotel ($1.7 million), King Christian Hotel ($1.6 million), and Hotel 1829 ($1.1 million).
Other awards reflect a broad effort to reach smaller operators and essential services: funding for farms, laundromats, medical providers, restaurants, marinas, auto services, and rescue organizations — each tied to the same core goal of resilience.
Under the program’s two main components — Commercial Hardening and Financing and Small Business Mitigation — projects range from installing storm-rated windows and doors to upgrading communications systems and adding emergency power through generators or solar-plus-battery systems.
Dorsett said those investments are designed to limit disruptions that ripple across the economy during storms or outages.
“If you have power, you’re not just surviving — you’re serving more people,” he said. “You’re keeping staff employed, and you’re supporting the community when it needs it most.”
That approach extends beyond individual businesses. Telecommunications upgrades aim to keep emergency systems online, while maritime improvements — such as reinforcing docks and expanding berths — could help ensure goods and supplies continue moving even if primary ports are impacted.
“We have to expect the unexpected,” Dorsett said. “If larger ports are compromised, smaller private facilities could become critical lifelines.”
The program also ties funding to broader economic impact. A small hotel expansion supported through mitigation dollars, for example, is expected to create new jobs, while improvements to marine infrastructure could increase capacity for charter vessels – bringing additional spending into the territory.
On the small business side, funding is also addressing long-standing operational challenges, from improving security for farmers to enabling mobile payment systems for vendors.
In some cases, applicants have committed to serving the public during emergencies – offering their facilities as distribution sites or temporary shelters.
“We’re looking at the bigger picture,” Dorsett said. “What does this project give back to the community?”
The process to reach this point has taken time. Applications opened in early 2024 and drew roughly 78 submissions, each requiring review, clarification, and technical assistance. Projects are now moving forward in phases, with three already underway and more expected as they complete environmental review.
Dorsett acknowledged that timeline — stretching from application to implementation — has drawn scrutiny, but said the scale of the program and federal requirements demand a deliberate approach.
“Everyone wants to see progress — and rightly so,” he said. “But we also have to ensure every project meets federal requirements and is evaluated fairly.”
In total, the territory has access to roughly $40 million in mitigation funding for this program over a 12-year period, with current efforts focused on getting the initial slate of projects up and running.
If approvals continue on pace, additional projects could begin construction by mid-to-late 2026.
For Dorsett, the goal is not just recovery — but readiness.
“When the next event comes — and it will — we want to be ready,” he said.
Infrared satellite imagery shows clouds and areas of moisture stretching across the northeastern Caribbean on Sunday, as forecasters monitor an increasingly wet and unstable pattern expected to bring heavy rain to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. (Photo courtesy NOAA)
The National Weather Service in San Juan, Puerto Rico, has issued a Flood Watch for the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. Forecasters warn of periods of heavy rainfall, with the greatest impacts expected Monday night into Tuesday.
Flood Watch and Rainfall Threat
The NWS has reported that the Flood Watch will be in effect from 10 a.m. Monday through 8 a.m. Wednesday as inclement weather affects the islands. Meteorologists said that the unsettled conditions are likely to generate thunderstorms with lightning.
A National Weather Service graphic highlights the main weather hazards expected this week, including flooding, marine and beach concerns, and limited heat risk across the region. (Photo courtesy NWS)
“A wetter and more unstable pattern will develop across Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands beginning late Monday into Tuesday as a mid- to upper-level trough of low-pressure approaches,” according to the NWS. “This will support more widespread showers and thunderstorms, with the greatest impacts expected Monday afternoon into early Wednesday morning,” the NWS said.
The NWS warned that prolonged periods of potentially heavy precipitation could lead to dangerous conditions, including flooding and landslides.
“Impacts from this weather event may include urban and small stream flooding, isolated flash flooding, rapid river rises, and landslides, and saturated soils will enhance runoff,” the NWS stated. “Rainfall of one to three inches per day, with locally higher amounts, is expected. The highest risk is Monday afternoon through Tuesday, though the exact placement of impacts remains uncertain,” the NWS added.
The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands beginning at 10 a.m. Monday, as periods of heavy rain are expected to affect the region over the coming days. (Photo courtesy NWS)
Even after the current Flood Watch expires Wednesday morning, unsettled conditions may continue through the latter part of the week. The NWS said abundant moisture and the lingering influence of the trough could keep a limited to elevated flooding threat in place through at least next Saturday, with moderate to locally heavy showers and isolated thunderstorms still possible across Puerto Rico and the USVI.
“Residents and visitors are urged to remain alert to changing weather conditions and to avoid flooded roadways,” the NWS advised.
A graphic from the National Weather Service in San Juan explains the difference between a Flood Watch and a Flood Warning, noting that a watch means flooding is possible, while a warning means flooding is happening or about to happen. (Photo courtesy NWS)
Marine Conditions
Hazardous marine and coastal conditions are also expected to persist. The NWS said pulses of a northerly swell will continue to arrive, and increasing showers, gusty winds, and thunderstorms from Monday through Wednesday could also create locally hazardous marine conditions.
“Small Craft Advisory conditions are expected across the Atlantic waters as seas build up to seven feet through midweek,” the NWS reported.
Additionally, the risk of rip currents will remain elevated, with further deteriorating seas expected later in the week.
“A moderate risk of rip currents is expected to develop across northern exposed beaches by Tuesday, with conditions becoming more hazardous again by the end of the workweek,” the NWS said. “Beachgoers and inexperienced surfers should avoid entering the water, especially near jetties, as life-threatening rip currents remain possible. Heed the advice of lifeguards, beach patrol flags, and posted signs. Access to hazardous beaches may be limited, and individuals should follow all posted warnings and safety guidance.”
Local Weather Updates
Information regarding the weather across the USVI, including marine forecasts, is available from the NWS and NOAA. Additionally, the local forecast is regularly updated on the Source Weather Page, where a weekly video forecast is available.
The Charlotte Amalie High School Class of 1983 is giving back in a hands-on way, recently hosting a Health & Wellness Awareness Screening designed to support student well-being and promote healthier choices.
Organized through the group’s Outreach Committee, the event at the end of last month brought resources and information directly to campus, creating space for students to engage with topics that have real impact beyond the classroom. The initiative placed a particular focus on prevention and awareness, including issues like diabetes, with the goal of helping students better understand how everyday decisions can shape their long-term health.
“We’re aiming to give back to our alma mater and support our students’ well-being,” Felecia R. Maduro, Outreach Committee chair, said in a recent release. “Our goal is to ensure that young people have access to information that will help them lead healthier lives.”
For organizers, the effort is part of a broader commitment by the Class of ’83 to remain actively engaged with the school community — not just through reunion milestones, but through initiatives that offer practical support and relevant information. By bringing these conversations directly to students, the group is helping to reinforce the importance of awareness, prevention, and informed decision-making at an early age.
The screening also reflects a growing recognition that schools play an important role in connecting students with resources that support both academic and personal well-being. For the Class of 1983, it’s a way to stay connected while contributing to something that has a lasting impact, Maduro said.
The Nature Conservancy hosted its first-ever Coral Conservation Festival on Sunday at the Coral Innovation Hub at Estate Little Princess on St. Croix, opening its doors to the community in an effort to raise awareness about coral reef restoration and the critical role reefs play in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
“This is actually the first year for the Coral Conservation Festival,” said Semoya Phillips, educational outreach coordinator for the organization’s coral program. “One of the biggest pushes for this program is that we have this lovely facility … and lots of Virgin Islanders do not know it is here.”
CMCArts encourage young people to paint educational pieces on fish and their habitats. (Source photo by Diana Dias)
Held at Estate Little Princess, the event brought together government agencies, private partners, researchers, and families for a day of education, activities, and hands-on learning. Booths featured everything from coral restoration efforts to wastewater management systems and marine conservation initiatives.
“We have activity partners from both our governmental partners as well as private agencies,” Phillips explained. “It’s a really nice amalgamation of regional and territorial partners … everybody has their own piece.”
Roots for Reefs play an educational game with visitors, identifying baby fish with their habitats during the Coral Conservation Festival. (Source photo by Diana Dias)
A major goal of the festival was to make coral science more accessible to the public.
“One of the amazing things about this facility is that you can see the coral close up,” Phillips said. “You don’t have to swim … you can learn and understand what’s happening without any barriers.”
Organizers hope the event sparks curiosity, especially among young people, and encourages deeper community involvement in conservation efforts.
Booth “Eat more Lionfish” made a lionfish ceviche as a display of just how yummy lionfish can be once prepared correctly. (Source photo by Diana Dias)
“I want this to be a nucleus of knowledge about the reefs,” Phillips added, “and for it to flow into the community.”
For Jessica Craft Ward, Virgin Islands program director for The Nature Conservancy, the festival represents a long-awaited step toward stronger community engagement.
“We are one of the best kept secrets on St. Croix,” Ward said. “The more people we talk to, the more we understand how much people don’t know about us.”
Jessica Ward, the Virgin Islands program director, with Lt. Gov Tregenza E. Roach at the opening ceremony for the Coral Conservation Festival on Sunday. (Photo by CSam/TNC)
Ward emphasized that outreach is now a key pillar of the organization’s work, alongside land management and coral restoration.
“Without engaging the community — especially the youth — our work isn’t as effective,” she said. “We need the next generation to become champions for the environment.”
The urgency behind the work was a central theme throughout the festival, as coral reefs across the region continue to face significant threats.
There were also educational booths discussing how lionfish affect the reefs and more about their venomous bodies and how to identify them in the water. (Source photo by Diana Dias)
“Coral reefs have been in decline for decades,” Ward said. “But the last couple of years brought severe bleaching.”
Rising ocean temperatures have caused widespread coral bleaching across the Caribbean, with devastating consequences. According to Ward, more than 90% of remaining elk horn coral — a key reef-building species — was lost following recent bleaching events.
“That’s a really devastating story,” she said. “We’re not just restoring reefs — we’re trying to save species from going extinct.”
Ocean Point Terminals also participated in the festival with an exhibit. (Photo courtesy Ocean Point Terminals)
The work being done in St. Croix is part of a much larger regional and global effort led by The Nature Conservancy, which has been active in the Caribbean for decades.
“The reefs of St. Croix are connected to Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Haiti, the Bahamas — even Florida,” said Rob Brumbaugh, executive director for The Nature Conservancy in the Caribbean. “You can’t just fix one place. These ecosystems are interconnected.”
The organization is currently working across multiple Caribbean countries, focusing on large-scale coral restoration and resilience-building to help reefs withstand warming ocean temperatures.
Local business, the Invasive Fire, uses lionfish bones in their jewelry, sold at the festival. (Source photo by Diana Dias)
The facility itself is also evolving to reflect environmental goals. Recently, 164 solar panels were installed as part of a broader shift toward renewable energy, reducing reliance on fossil fuels while supporting the energy-intensive demands of coral restoration work.
“These facilities are energy intensive,” said Ward. “We’re trying to transition from fossil fuels to green energy — because we don’t want to contribute to the problem we’re trying to solve.”
Beyond the science, organizers say the festival was about connection — bringing together generations of Virgin Islanders to learn, engage, and take pride in protecting their natural resources.
Children played and learned at the festival, an effort that was important for the event’s mission. (Source photo by Diana Dias)
“What gives me hope is seeing generations here,” Brumbaugh said. “Little kids learning about coral, families engaging together — this is how conservation becomes something we live.”
With interactive exhibits, educational booths, and a festive atmosphere, the event blended learning with celebration, reinforcing a central message: coral conservation is not just the responsibility of scientists, but of the entire community.
“We labeled it a festival for a reason,” Brumbaugh added. “This isn’t just about problems — it’s about joy, learning, and connection.”
The beautiful VIBE venue at IGY’s Yacht Haven Grande Marina in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. (Photo courtesy MediaBoostVI)
The third annual Virgin Islands Boating Expo will return to St. Thomas May 14-16, bringing luxury yachts, global brands and a focus on workforce development to IGY’s Yacht Haven Grande Marina, a press release announced.
The event, known as VIBE, will feature yachts available for sale and charter, including power and sail vessels, monohulls and multihulls. Brands such as Axopar, Sunreef, Lagoon and Tiara are expected to participate, according to the press release.
Organizers say the marine industry in the Virgin Islands continues to face a shortage of skilled workers, from diesel mechanics to marine electricians and fiberglass technicians.
A new addition this year is the “Charting the Future” gala, set for May 16 at Muse in Charlotte Amalie. Proceeds will support the Marine Rebuild Fund, a nonprofit created by the Virgin Islands Professional Charter Association to fund its Marine Apprenticeship program, the release stated.
The beautiful venue at Muse, on the Charlotte Amalie Waterfront, will be the setting for the Charting the Future Gala. (Photo courtesy Muse)
“Our industry offers incredible opportunities, but there is a real and growing shortage of technical marine talent in the Virgin Islands,” said Kennon Jones, executive director of VIPCA. “We need to ensure Virgin Islanders are prepared to take advantage of these opportunities.”
America’s Cup commentator Tucker Thompson will serve as keynote speaker. He said technical trades are critical to the future of the industry.
“The America’s Cup is first and foremost a design and engineering competition,” Thompson said. “There are more opportunities in boatbuilding, systems, and mechanics than there are for sailors.”
Tucker Thompson, America’s Cup commentator, will be the keynote speaker at the Charting the Future Gala. (Photo courtesy Tucker Thompson)
VIP tickets for the gala include a plated dinner curated by Chef Julius Jackson, open bar, music and a silent auction. General admission tickets will also be available with drinks and light bites from local vendors, the release stated.
Since its launch, the Marine Apprenticeship Program has graduated 89 students. Organizers said participants have gone on to earn captain’s licenses, marine certifications and jobs across the territory, with some entering military service.
Marine Apprentices in 2025 learn about marine engines at Offshore Marine. (Photo courtesy VIPCA)
Kitty Edwards, director of the Department of Planning and Natural Resources and a founder of the Marine Rebuild Fund, said the program continues to grow.
“Every year at the Marine Apprenticeship graduation, I am reinvigorated with pride,” Edwards said.
Jamari Benjamin, a program graduate now working at the St. Thomas Sailing Center, said the experience helped build practical skills.
“What I value and liked best about the program is that it gets young people out on the water and increases your knowledge, experience, and skills out there,” he said.
Learn about luxury charters from Charter Smarter at VIBE 2026. (Photo courtesy MediaBoostVI)
Applications for the 2026 apprenticeship are open through May 15. The four-week training is free for eligible Virgin Islands residents ages 18 to 29. Apply here.
In addition to yacht tours, VIBE will host the Harbor 360 Vendor Expo, featuring companies in charter services, marine technology and conservation, including the University of the Virgin Islands.
