Under picture-perfect skies at Cramer Park, young athletes took on big challenges at Sunday’s Grand Finale Junior Triathlon, the final multi-sport event of the season hosted by the Junior Tri VI Committee.
Youngster try out the swim-bike-run format. (Submitted photo)
The event drew enthusiastic participation from children ages 4 to 11, each testing their skills in the swim-bike-run format.
In the 5–6 age division, a small but determined field of two girls—Novalyn Ivey and Talia Simmonds—approached the start with a mix of excitement and hesitation. After completing the 25-meter swim, the pair raced to the transition area at the park entrance, quickly fastening helmets before heading out on the half-mile bike course. Riding evenly matched bikes equipped with training wheels, the competition remained tight through the ride. The race ultimately came down to the final quarter-mile run, where Ivey edged ahead to secure first place. Both girls celebrated their efforts with wide smiles on the finishers’ podium, proudly wearing their medals.
The 7–8 division featured increased distances, including a 50-meter swim and half-mile run. Hanako Sanders, a 2nd grade student at GHCDS, set the pace early, exiting the water with a 20-second lead. Bexley Ivey, who marked her birthday by moving into a new age group, held a steady second-place position during the bike segment, while Parker Hensel surged into third. The top three maintained their standings through the run to finish in that order. In the boys’ category, Reagan Payne and Tahir Simmonds claimed second and third, respectively, while Indigo Anderson impressed in her first-ever multi-sport race, finishing third among the girls.
Competition in the 9–11 boys’ division remained wide open until the final stages of the race. Each athlete showcased individual strengths, making for an exciting contest. Michael Kuczynski, a member of the Dolphins Swim Team, led out of the 100-meter swim, while Milo Bird took control during the one-mile bike segment. The decisive move came on the run, where Hiro Sanders surged ahead to claim the win. Arlo Zegarelli completed the podium in third. Caitlin Kuczynski, the lone female competitor in the division, delivered a strong performance to finish fourth overall against the boys.
A dedicated team of volunteers ensured the event ran smoothly, guiding athletes along the course and prioritizing safety at every turn. Support from community members—including adults and high school seniors—played a key role in creating a positive and encouraging environment for the young competitors. Organizers noted that while fun remains a central focus, safety is always the top priority, and both goals were successfully achieved.
With the season now entering a brief hiatus, Junior Tri VI athletes will have time to prepare for the next event, a splash-and-dash (swim/run) scheduled for November 18. Community members are encouraged to invite friends and help continue the growth of youth multi-sport participation in the territory.
Listening to last week’s legislative hearing on economic development offered an encouraging look at the work underway across several government agencies to strengthen the U.S. Virgin Islands economy. The level of coordination, the focus on key sectors such as tourism, workforce development, and the emerging blue economy, and the strategic use of federal funding all point to a government actively working to shape a stronger future for the territory.
Janette Millin Young (Submitted photo)
At the same time, we must acknowledge what residents experience every day. Many families and businesses continue to navigate aging infrastructure, challenges within our healthcare and education systems, and the rising cost of living. These are real pressures that shape how people view progress and policy decisions.
As someone who has worked alongside many of these agencies through economic development and community engagement initiatives, I have seen firsthand the commitment and effort to create opportunity for our residents. From partnerships that support small businesses to programs that connect residents to new industries, there is meaningful work happening.
The opportunity before us is ensuring that this work is not only happening, but that it is clearly understood, accessible, and felt by the people it is intended to serve.
For many residents, economic development can feel like a distant concept, discussed in hearings and reports but not always visible in everyday life. Yet the success of these initiatives depends on public awareness, participation, and trust. When residents can see how programs translate into jobs, business growth, and tangible improvements in their communities, confidence grows. And with it, engagement also increases.
Continued and expanded outreach is essential.
The efforts already underway through media, community organizations, and partnerships provide a strong foundation. Building on that, there is an opportunity to further connect the dots by highlighting real stories of impact: the small business that expanded through access to capital, the young professional who found a pathway into a new industry, or the community revitalization effort making a visible difference.
Equally important is making pathways to opportunity clear and easy to navigate. Residents should be able to quickly understand what programs exist, who they are for, and how to participate. When access becomes simpler, participation increases.
As conversations continue around long-term fiscal strategies and potential new revenue measures, it is equally important that progress is paired with transparency. Demonstrating how resources are managed and how investments improve infrastructure and quality of life will help ensure that future policy discussions are grounded in public confidence.
The Virgin Islands has long been resilient, and there is real momentum in areas that can drive sustainable growth. By strengthening the connection between policy, programs, and people, we can ensure that this momentum is not only sustained, but it is also shared.
Our path forward is about economic development and ensuring that every Virgin Islander can see their place within it.
— Janette Millin Young, former V.I. senator and former chair of the Committee on Economic Development
Virgin Islands Department of Labor Commissioner Dr. Gary Molloy is pleased to invite the public to take the next step toward a brighter future at the the upcoming “From Career to Carnival-Explore, Hire, Stay, Play” Career Fairs designed to connect job seekers with meaningful employment opportunities across the territory.
U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Labor
These dynamic hiring events will convene government agencies and private sector employers actively seeking to recruit, interview, and hire qualified candidates. The initiative reflects VIDOL’s continued commitment to strengthening the territory’s workforce by aligning talent with industry demand and fostering sustainable career pathways.
The Career Fairs will take place as follows:
• St. Croix: April 16 – 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Location: University of the Virgin Islands – Great Hall
• St. Thomas: April 21 -11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Location: University of the Virgin Islands – LaVerne E. Ragster Administration and Conference Center
(1st Floor Conference Room)
Veterans will receive priority consideration at both events in recognition of their service and contributions.
Attendees will have the opportunity to engage directly with hiring managers, participate in on-site interviews, and gain valuable insights into current and emerging career opportunities. Job seekers are strongly encouraged to attend prepared, dressed in professional business attire, and equipped with multiple copies of their resumes to make a strong first impression with their prospective employers. Do not miss this opportunity to connect with employers, explore career options, and position yourself for success.
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.
