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Tourism Department Gives Christmas Gifts to Students at My Brother’s Workshop

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Tourism Department Gives Christmas Gifts to Students at My Brother’s Workshop
Santa gives a student from the Joseph A. Gomez Elementary School a gift. (Source photo by Adisha Penn)

Children were greeted by Santa and elves on Wednesday for the annual gift giveaway by the Tourism Department. Hosted at My Brother’s Workshop on St. Thomas, 200 children were provided with gifts for the holiday season!

Students ages 4 to 12 from the Bowsky Elementary School, Joseph Gomez Elementary School, and the V.I. Resource Center for the Disabled were in attendance for the event. Once they arrived by shuttle, courtesy of the School Bus Inc., they were excitedly greeted by dancers and a moko jumbie.

Girl students from the Joseph A. Gomez Elementary School excitedly line up to collect their gifts from Santa. (Source photo by Adisha Penn)

“This is a yearly event that we do to give back,” said Nicole George-Petersen. She is the Director of Visitor’s Experience for the Department of Tourism. “I have been working with the Department of Tourism for 18 years and this event has been going on since before I came.”

The Tourism Department collaborates with the Florida Cruise Association to host the event annually. This year, Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, one of the world’s largest cruise ships, worked with the Tourism Department to bring the event to life.

Yvonne E. Milliner Bowsky Elementary School first grader, Colin Graham, and his teacher Ms. Tamika Liburd, stand together after he receives his gift. (Source photo by Adisha Penn)

Icon of the Seas’ hotel manager, Pietro Del Grande, said, “We are very excited to help. We have participated in other events in the Caribbean.”

When asked about their contribution, Del Grande said, “Our role is to come and support. We provided the Santa, elves, giving and distributing the gifts.”

Ms. Liburd’s first grade class at the Yvonne E. Milliner Bowsky Elementary School. (Source photo by Adisha Penn)

Diamonds International also partnered with Tourism to conduct the event.

“In partnership with the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association, we provided all the toys,” said Linda Meyer, a representative for Diamonds International. “We had the gifts sent in on Tropical and we wrapped 210 gifts for boys, girls, and special needs students.”

Kelsey from Coral World Ocean and Reef Initiative talks to a student about conch shells. (Source photo by Adisha Penn)

Home Depot, Coral World Ocean and Reef Initiative, the VI Children’s Museum, and Face Canvas were businesses that collaborated to provide items, educational, and recreational activities for the children. After collecting gifts from Santa, students were able to walk to different tables and see what each organization had to offer.

Kelsey from Coral World Ocean and Reef Initiative shows a sparrow hawk to students. (Source photo by Adisha Penn)

Amber McCammon at the VI Children’s Museum said she brought items to show students “how to use a compass to find Santa at the North Pole,” and activities that focused on symmetry, math, and science.

Amber McCammon from the VI Children’s Museum stands near her math and science activities for the children. (Source photo by Adisha Penn)

Once the gifting was completed, the students ate lunch at the workshop before heading back to school.

“They have hamburgers, cheeseburgers, and veggie burgers with a side of fries or chips,” said George-Petersen. Students also had a selection of water and assorted juices to choose from.

When asked if they would want to participate again in the future, representatives from Royal Caribbean and Diamonds International said yes.

“I do! The children are so animated and excited. We will keep it going,” Meyer said.

Colleen Smithen of Face Canvas paints flowers on a student’s face during the gift giveaway. ((Source photo by Adisha Penn)

Del Grande, who has been working with Royal Caribbean for 17 years, also said he hopes to come back to St. Thomas for the event.

“I love St. Thomas. It’s a beautiful island,” he said.

“This is an event that we do to give back,” said George-Petersen.

This event was a collaborative effort for the Tourism Department. More information about the Tourism Department can be found on their website.

Future Job Skills of Tomorrow Completes Its First Marine Apprenticeship Program

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Future Job Skills of Tomorrow Completes Its First Marine Apprenticeship Program
Graduates, center, and supporters of the Future Job Skills of Tomorrow marine industry program. (Photo by Rueben Fenton)

Future Job Skills of Tomorrow held their second ceremony of completion Friday, celebrating three young adults who took advantage of an opportunity to develop a craft in shipbuilding.

“The event was excellent,” said Rueben Fenton, founder and director of the nonprofit. Over the summer, the organization completed its first program in golf course maintenance.

The graduation was held at the Palms at Pelican Cove. Program supporters like Sens. Novelle Francis, Hubert Frederick, Angel Bolques, and a representative from Delegate Stacey Plaskett’s office attended. More supporters, Chris Hanley and Kenny Tucker from the St. Croix Marine Center, Karl Petersen of Sea Sprout Design, LLC, and Tim Murphy from the American Boat and Yacht Council were present as well.

This was the first time the organization conducted its boatbuilding/maintenance program. It consisted of a lecture and hands-on portion.

“So we did a classroom first and then we rolled over to the Marine Center,” said Fenton. They basically worked in and with the professionals at the boat yard. They were able to assist with some of the engines, they did sanding on some of the boats, they did patching, they did spraying. Basically it was a comprehensive on the job training.”

Though nine students began the program, only three were able to remain steadfast and complete their training. The students, Zion Chevubin, Eduardo Fajardo, and Jayvyn Brooks, ranged between 19 and 21 years of age. They completed four months of classroom and four months of on-the-job training and received certificates from Future Job Skills of Tomorrow, the St. Croix Marine Center, Sea Sprout Design, OSHA, and for CPR and fire safety.

“Our federal partners are happy with that because it was a pilot program,” said Fenton, of the students.

From left, Zion Chevubin, Eduardo Fajardo, and Jayvyn Brooks graduated from the Future Job Skills of Tomorrow shipbuilding. (Photo by Rueben Fenton)

When asked if any of the students were looking forward to pursuing a career in boat maintenance after completing the program, Fenton replied that two showed interest.

“Two of them showed interest in pursuing and trying to get employment in that area, possibly with marinas around the island. We’re waiting to see what decision they’re going to make,” Fenton said.

Future Job Skills of Tomorrow partnered with the St. Croix Marine Center and Sea Sprout Design, LLC for the program. The program is centered on creating a career path for 18-24-year-olds in the marine industry. Fenton said that there are future plans to bring the program to St. Thomas and St. John.

“That’s in the works. We’re basically trying to get it solidly built on St. Croix and then we will look to go on St. Thomas,” he said. “The big elephant in the room is the funding to put this program on.”

Fenton said the program cost about $400,000. Ideally, it would cost $1 to $8 million to operate programs in both districts.

“The next goal is to have a training facility on St. Croix,” said Fenton. He is planning to create a marine trade school.

Another marine class will be scheduled for next year and Fenton said programs around solar energy and construction are anticipated.

“We are an entity looking at bringing young adults into demand area skills to get some training, basically to get good wages,” he added. “Future Job Skills is grounded in the belief that mastery is achieved both in the classroom and on the job.”

Fenton thanked everyone for their support, and program partners, the U.S. Department of the Interior and VI Liberty.

For more information on the program, email reubenfenton20@gmail.com or call 340-201-3292.

Five Teachers Selected as St. Croix District Teacher of the Year Candidates

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Five Teachers Selected as St. Croix District Teacher of the Year Candidates
Teacher of the Year candidates (Submitted photo)

The Virgin Islands Department of Education has named five educators as candidates for the 2025 – 2026 St. Croix District Teacher of the Year. The department described the group as professionals who demonstrate instructional excellence, leadership, and a strong commitment to student achievement.

“Each of these educators represents the best of our public education system. Their passion, innovation, and dedication uplift our schools, empower our students, and strengthen our community,” Commissioner Dionne Wells-Hedrington said in a press release.

The candidates are:

Adreian Sato, St. Croix Central High School
Sato serves as the Department Chairperson for Special Education and as a ninth-grade resource teacher. He has 11 years of teaching experience and is known for collaborating with teachers, families, and administrators to support compliance, student growth, and academic success.

Teacher of the Year candidate Adreian Sato of St. Croix Central High School (Submitted photo)

Jayson Arcilla, Pearl B. Larsen PreK-8 School
Arcilla teaches eighth-grade science and social studies. He has taught for 10 years and coaches the school’s Science Bowl and Junior Solar Sprint teams. His instructional approach encourages inquiry and problem-solving.

Teacher of the Year candidate Jayson Arcilla of Pearl B. Larsen PreK-8 School (Submitted photo)

Joanie Phillip, Ricardo Richards Elementary School
Phillip is a sixth-grade English language arts teacher who began her career in 2008. She serves as a union representative for the American Federation of Teachers Local 1826 and also teaches in the St. Croix Adult Education Program, supporting adult learners working toward academic goals.

Teacher of the Year candidate Joanie Phillip of Ricardo Richards Elementary School (Submitted photo)

Ronda Campbell, St. Croix Career and Technical Education Center
Campbell joined the department in 1997 and teaches business at CTEC. She has been instrumental in developing the School-to-Work Program, which connects students with internship opportunities in local businesses.

Teacher of the Year candidate Ronda Campbell of St. Croix Career and Technical Education Center (Submitted photo)

Jennifer Novero-Gantan, St. Croix Educational Complex High School
Novero-Gantan is an International Cultural Exchange teacher who instructs 11th-grade trigonometry and AP calculus. She works with the Mathematics Department to create a data-driven instructional cycle focused on assessment and improvement, preparing students for college-level academics.

Teacher of the Year candidate Jennifer Novero-Gantan of St. Croix Educational Complex High School (Submitted photo)

VIDE stated that one of the five educators will be selected as the 2025 – 2026 St. Croix District Teacher of the Year and recognized at the annual ceremony later this school year.

Traffic Light Outage at Mandela Circle

Mat Probasco
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The Department of Public Works is informing the community of a traffic light outage at the intersection of Edward Wilmoth Blyden Boulevard and George Francis Drive (aka Nelson Mandela Circle) on St. Thomas. The department is aware that the traffic light is currently offline for needed repairs.

Motorists are asked to traverse the area with extreme caution and utilize the rules of a four-way stop, which goes into effect when traffic lights at an intersection are inoperable. In a four-way stop, all drivers must stop at the intersection, then proceed in the order they arrived.

The Department of Public Works appreciates the community’s patience as it works to improve road conditions throughout the

Vadis Uldine Nibbs Springette Dies

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Vadis Uldine Nibbs Springette Dies

Vadis Uldine Nibbs Springette

Vadis Uldine Nibbs Springette

Mother: Belbeana Gerda Venzen Turnbull (Deceased)

Father: David Warren Nibbs (Deceased)    

Husband: James Walter Springette (Deceased)

Children: Beryl Myrl Todman, Ethlyn (Pam), Kenneth (Abu), Keith (Ronnie), and James Springette

Grandchildren: Rashid, Jasmine, Kenneth, Jr., Kiante, Kennysha, Desmond, Janelle, and Omar Springette; Tasha Todman Hart, Wilford, Jr. and Brian Todman; Jarell Mason; Juante John; Trisha Benjamin Simon

Great-Grandchildren: LéSean and Leah George; Cara Mason; Xaiden and Xaion Todman; Kyelle Francis; Tadin; Emperor and Noah Springette; JHY’Mtha James; ADeja Harvey; Tamaya Simon

Brothers: Alvin Nibbs; Paul Georges; Alphonse Amey (Deceased); Thomas, Adolbert “Dolly”, and Raymond “Ray” Turnbull

Sisters: Adina Icena Turnbull and Helen Agatha Phillips (Deceased)

Sister-in-Law: Dorothy Nibbs

Nieces And nephews too many to mention.

First Viewing

Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Turnbull’s Funeral Home

Candlelight Vigil

Thursday, Dec. 18 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Emancipation Garden

Second Viewing

Friday, Dec. 19 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. at Christ Church Methodist, Market Square

Funeral Service

Friday, Dec. 19 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. at Christ Church Methodist, Market Square

Burial at Western Cemetery No. 1

 

Undocumented Felon Gets 20 Months for Illegal Reentry

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Undocumented Felon Gets 20 Months for Illegal Reentry

An undocumented felon who returned to the United States after being deported was sentenced Wednesday to 20 months in prison, according to a press release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of the Virgin Islands.

Chief District Judge Robert Molloy sentenced Tommy Walter Ramirez, 36, a Dominican Republic national, after federal agents arrested him on St. Thomas earlier this year. Court documents state that Homeland Security Investigations, Enforcement and Removal agents, and the U.S. Marshals apprehended Ramirez on May 24. He did not have identification at the time, and a biometric fingerprint check confirmed his identity, according to the press release.

Records showed Ramirez had been deported on April 22, 2022, and was ordered not to return. His immigration file showed no legal entries into the United States and no written permission from the attorney general or the secretary of Homeland Security to re-enter, the press release stated.

Federal prosecutors reported that Ramirez also had two prior felony convictions for conspiring to possess with intent to distribute cocaine while living illegally in the Virgin Islands, the release stated.

Plaskett Applauds Passage of Haiti Trade Acts

Mat Probasco
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Plaskett Applauds Passage of Haiti Trade Acts

Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement after the House Committee on Ways and Means unanimously approved the reauthorization of the Haitian Hemispheric Opportunity through Partnership Encouragement Act (HOPE Act) and the Haiti Economic Lift Program Act (HELP Act) which will now advance to the House Floor for a vote:

Congresswoman Plaskett, pictured with His Excellency Lionel Delatour, Ambassador of the Republic of Haiti. (Submitted photo)

“Today marks a significant victory for Haiti and for smart, strategic U.S. engagement in the Caribbean. The unanimous, bipartisan vote to advance the reauthorization of HOPE/HELP demonstrates that when it comes to supporting our neighbors and advancing our shared interests, Democrats and Republicans can still come together to do what’s right.

“It was particularly meaningful to have Mr. Jean Bernard Henry, Counselor at the Embassy of Haiti, join us for today’s markup. His presence and gratitude remind us that this work has real consequences for real people—Haitian workers, families, and communities who depend on the economic opportunities these programs create. I am proud to lead the charge for HOPE/HELP’s reauthorization because this is the kind of work that matters: supporting our Caribbean neighbors and fostering prosperity throughout the region” said Congresswoman Plaskett.

Congresswoman Plaskett pictured with Jean Bernard Henry, Counselor at the Embassy of Haiti. (Submitted photo)

Haiti is experiencing a humanitarian, political, and economic crisis and needs both economic and political stability. The dire circumstances in Haiti require immediate action. The apparel sector is of incredible importance to Haiti’s economy and presently is the foundation for the country’s economic development. Given the cascading job losses and extreme security crisis that have displaced over 1.4 million Haitians and left half the country’s population experiencing life-threatening hunger, Haiti cannot afford delays in reauthorizing this vital program.

The HOPE/HELP reauthorization extends the period during which imports of certain Haitian-manufactured textile and apparel, and other goods produced in Haiti are eligible for duty-free treatment, providing the long-term certainty that Haitian producers and workers need to build stronger, more resilient futures.

“HOPE/HELP is a trade preference program that boosts development for our allies with strong bipartisan support, and no domestic opposition,” Congresswoman Plaskett continued. “Haiti is an ally, one of the few countries in the Hemisphere that still recognizes Taiwan, and U.S. support for Haiti’s apparel sector is mutually beneficial. Haitian apparel utilizes U.S. cotton and plays an essential role in shifting supply chains out of China and to the Western Hemisphere.

“I continue to emphasize the great importance of U.S. trade engagement in the Caribbean region. The United States has a responsibility to support its Caribbean neighbors. This legislation creates the foundation for stronger bilateral economic ties, greater certainty for investors that these benefits will be there for Haiti over the long term, and the economic security that is needed for Haiti to rebuild from the ground up and emerge more prosperous and resilient.

“Today’s committee vote is an important first step, but our work is not done. I urge my colleagues in the full House and Senate to act swiftly to ensure this critical program continues without interruption. Haiti’s workers and families are counting on us.”

The legislation now moves to the full House of Representatives for consideration. If passed by the House and Senate, it will proceed to the President’s desk to be signed into law.

Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts Partners with VI Healthcare Foundation

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Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts Partners with VI Healthcare Foundation

The Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts is pleased to announce a community collaboration with the Virgin Islands Healthcare Foundation.

Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts on St. Croix (Submitted photo)

CMCArts is proud to activate its permanent art collection by showcasing selected artworks at the VIHCF’s Renal Center and Rural Health Clinic. The CMCArts permanent art collection highlights and celebrates the works and lives of Caribbean artists with a focus on local artists from the Virgin Islands. Currently on view are works by Niarus Walker (STX), Augustin Holder (STT), Maria Henle (STX), Dove (STX), and Tony Vanderperk (STX).

The VIHCF’s mission is to be a beacon of healthcare philanthropy through excellence in care, charitable collaborations, and educational partnerships. The foundation’s goal is to provide access to healthcare for all, empower clients in their healthcare journey through education and chronic disease prevention, and to help alleviate disparities in healthcare caused by geographical location, lack of resources and territorial status of the United States Virgin Islands.

CMCArts’ mission is to preserve and promote the art and cultural heritage of the Virgin Islands and the Caribbean through transformative experiences in the arts. The museum has a small but growing permanent art collection with a public serving mission to share its collection as often as possible.

We hope this community partnership inspires appreciation for local Caribbean art and the artists that create them. The goal is to share the joy and relaxation that art inspires throughout the community’s healthcare journey.

Discover more in the CMCArts museum store and online in the CMCArts free online collection archive at cmcarts.org. VIHCF serves the public at the Rural Health Clinic at Sunny Isl., St. Croix, Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Schedule an appointment for care at (340) 202-0084

Sofia Swindell Shines at Penn Debut

Mat Probasco
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Sofia Swindell Shines at Penn Debut

Virgin Islands Track & Field Federation member Sofia Swindell, a freshman scholar-athlete at the University of Pennsylvania, made a remarkable entrance into collegiate competition at the Penn Opener, held at the Ott Center in Philadelphia. Representing Penn in both the 60m hurdles and the 4x400m relay, Swindell demonstrated poise, speed, and promise in her first meet at the NCAA level.

Sofia Swindell (Submitted photo)

Swindell opened her day in the 60m hurdles preliminary round, clocking 8.69 seconds to win her heat and secure automatic qualification for the finals. Rising to the occasion, she shaved off time in the final round, posting a personal best of 8.66 seconds. That performance earned her fifth place overall and etched her name into Penn’s history books, tying for the #9 fastest 60m hurdle time in program history.

Her time also places her within striking distance of the U20 Virgin Islands Indoor 60m Hurdle record of 8.65 seconds, held by fellow VITFF standout Michelle Smith. Swindell’s rapid progression suggests that the national junior record may soon be challenged.

Later in the meet, Swindell showcased her versatility in the 4x400m relay, running the second leg for Penn. Her blistering 55.2-second split was the fastest on her team, propelling the Quakers to a first-place finish and a meet record in the event. The performance underscored her ability to contribute both individually and as a vital relay runner.

Swindell’s debut signals a bright future for the freshman, who balances her academic pursuits with athletic excellence. Her next test will come at the Penn Select Meet on January 10, 2026, again in Philadelphia, where she will look to build on her early success and continue climbing the ranks in Ivy League competition.

Meanwhile, back home in the Virgin Islands, the second developmental meet will be held on Friday, December 12, 2025, at the St. Croix Educational Complex track, beginning at 4:00 pm. Athletes wishing to participate should register with the VITFF to confirm their entry and eligibility. https://vitrackandfield.com/registration/

This event will provide local athletes with another opportunity to showcase their progress and prepare for the upcoming season.

 

Holiday Spirit Shines at VI National Championship Half Marathon and Reindeer Run 5K

Mat Probasco
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Holiday Spirit Shines at VI National Championship Half Marathon and Reindeer Run 5K

The holiday season officially kicked off for runners on St. Croix with the 4th Annual VI National Championship Half Marathon & Reindeer Run 5K, held Sunday at Cane Bay. A total of 64 runners participated in the festive event, many sporting holiday attire, antlers, and jingle bells to celebrate the season.

Half Marathon

Matias Porporato captured the 2025 VI Half Marathon Male Championship (Submitted photo)

The highlight of the day came as Matias Porporato captured the 2025 VI Half Marathon Male Championship, setting a new course record of 1:21:46. On the women’s side, Bridget Klein continued her dominance, earning her fourth consecutive Female title with a time of 1:30:12, her second-fastest performance on the Cane Bay course.

Other standout half marathon results included:

  • Patrick Corona, US Air Force Commander, second overall in 1:29:10
  • Nathan Langley, in his debut half marathon, third male in 1:33:17
  • Savannah Logan, second female in 1:54:15
  • Esther Ellis, third female in 1:56:23

5K Champions

Bridget Klein continued her dominance, earning her fourth consecutive Female title. (Submitted photo)

In the shorter race, Ayden Cintron, a GHCDS senior, set a personal best and claimed victory with a blazing 16:28. This performance qualifies Ayden for the 2026 CARIFTA Games which will be held in Grenada. He was followed by:

  • Javier Morales, US Air Force, second in 22:33
  • Elias Ruderfer, GHCDS senior, third in 23:22

On the women’s side, GHCDS senior Kennedy James delivered a commanding win in 23:58, nearly two minutes faster than her 2024 time. She was joined on the podium by:

  • Ana Gutierrez, second in 26:38
  • Brooke Cook, third in 27:17

Looking Ahead

The next distance running event on St. Croix is the St. Croix Scenic 50K, scheduled for Sunday, Jan. 18. Runners may register as individuals or as part of a two- or three-person relay team. Registration details are available at www.scenic50.com.

The second developmental meet will be held on Friday, Dec. 12, at the St. Croix Educational Complex track, beginning at 4 p.m. Athletes wishing to participate should register with the VITFF to confirm their entry and eligibility. https://vitrackandfield.com/registration/

Congratulations to all participants of the Reindeer Run Half Marathon & 5K! Finisher’s awards are available for pickup this week.

 

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