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Photo Focus: Gifft Hill School Welcomes Students for New Academic Year

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Photo Focus: Gifft Hill School Welcomes Students for New Academic Year
Fifth graders Summer Williamson and Hudson Sage kick back with a good book. (Photo courtesy Gifft Hill School)

Gifft Hill School opened its doors this week to nearly 200 students for the 2025-26 academic year, continuing its role as the only toddler-through-12th-grade school on St. John, the school announced in a press release.

Fourth-grade teacher Ms. Laura begins the book Seedfolks by Paul Fleischman with students Camille Vanterpool, Nolan Thompson, Eli Sosa, Zuri Thomas, and Layla Schnell. (Photo courtesy Gifft Hill School)

The school emphasized its commitment to experiential learning, sustainability, and community connection as it began the new year. Students will participate in rigorous academics, immersive projects, and enrichment opportunities designed to prepare them for success in the classroom and beyond, according to the press release.

Kindergarten teacher Andrea Giglitto with students Josiah Sosa, Thatcher Hanson, Se’Raiyah Olivieri-John, Sunny McLain, Calliope Woods, and Piper Stone. (Photo courtesy Gifft Hill School)
Third grade teacher Robin Wallace assists Kaleb Hendricks with an assignment. (Photo courtesy Gifft Hill School)

“The start of a new school year is always filled with excitement and promise,” said Head of School Liz Kinsella in a press release. “At Gifft Hill School, we are dedicated to nurturing the whole child, encouraging curiosity, compassion, and resilience. We look forward to seeing our students grow as learners and as leaders.”

Seventh graders Norah Chouiniere and Reniqua Prentice embrace at the start of the first school day of the year. (Photo courtesy Gifft Hill School)
Upper Campus Principal Heather McGuire assists sixth graders Beau Ramsey, Ollie Stone, and Nevawn Brathwaite with their new lockers. (Photo courtesy Gifft Hill School)

Highlights of the year include GHS’s signature programs in environmental science and sustainability, expanded arts and athletics, and capstone experiences for seniors. These initiatives reflect the school’s focus on providing an education that is both challenging and relevant, equipping students with the skills needed to navigate a rapidly changing world, the press release stated.

Upper Campus math teacher Leah Schoenberg with her high school students. (Photo courtesy Gifft Hill School)

Now in its third year as a cell phone-free campus, GHS has set an example that other schools in the territory have adopted, creating more focused and connected learning environments. Classrooms have also been updated with flexible furniture, including adjustable desks, movable group tables, and wobble stools, allowing students more choice in how they learn while supporting engagement and focus, the release stated.

Toddler students Isabelle Crafts, Ayza Pickering, and Finley Melamet enjoy the playground. (Photo courtesy Gifft Hill School)

The school welcomes both returning families and new members of the community, while inviting the wider Virgin Islands public to engage with its programs, events, and student-led initiatives throughout the year, it said.

Toddler student Reniya Prentice enjoys the playground. (Photo courtesy Gifft Hill School)

For more information about Gifft Hill School and its programs, visit www.giffthillschool.org.

Pre-K students Vera King, Layla Mathenia, and Zaia Thomas in their classroom. (Photo courtesy Gifft Hill School)

St. Croix Man Charged With Burglary After Entering Woman’s Home

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St. Croix Man Charged With Burglary After Entering Woman’s Home

A St. Croix man was arrested early Tuesday after police said he broke into a woman’s home and was found inside her bedroom, the Virgin Islands Police Department announced.

According to the Virgin Islands Police Department, the 911 Emergency Call Center received a report of a burglary in progress in the Mary’s Fancy residential area at about 2:16 a.m. on Sept. 2. Officers responding to the scene spoke with the victim, who told police that 32-year-old Jahthwan Barnes had entered her residence without permission.

The victim told officers that she had locked and secured her home before going to bed, but awoke during the night to find Barnes on her bed. Police said Barnes admitted to entering the home without permission.

Barnes was advised of his Miranda Rights and taken into custody for burglary in the second degree. Because the charge falls under domestic violence, no bail was set until a judge reviews the case. He was booked, processed, and transported to the John Bell Correctional Facility, where he remains pending his advice of rights hearing, according to the release.

Suicide Prevention Awareness Month Events

Mat Probasco
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Suicide Prevention Awareness Month Events

In recognition of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month this September, the VI Department of Health’s Behavioral Health Division is inviting the community to join in its awareness and remembrance events and announcing the launch of a new initiative to address the growing mental health needs of the territory’s youth and young adults.

“Here in the Virgin Islands, we don’t always talk about mental health or suicide prevention — and that silence can become stigma,” VI Health Commissioner Justa Encarnacion said. “But help is available, and suicide is preventable. This month we are reinforcing our commitment to opening conversations and making sure that persons know they are seen, valued, and not alone.”

On Wednesday, Sept. 10, the department Behavioral Health Division will host a Suicide Prevention Walk and Candlelight & Lantern Release Ceremony on St. Croix. The walk will begin at the former Charles Harwood Memorial Complex modulars and proceed to the Christiansted Bypass lookout point where a candlelight and lantern remembrance ceremony will take place.

On Wednesday, Sept. 17, a second event will be held on St. Thomas, beginning with a walk from Schneider Regional Medical Center to the Charlotte Amalie Waterfront promenade where the candlelight and lantern release ceremony will be held.

Both events begin at 6 p.m. and will include moments of reflection, remembrance, and a show of solidarity for all affected by suicide.

In 2024, three young Virgin Islanders lost their lives to suicide, leaving families and communities grieving. In remembrance of those lost, the VI Department of Health is strengthening its outreach with events to provide hope for those struggling, to make connections, and to inform the community about vital resources.

“Raising awareness about suicide is not just about prevention, it’s about reminding every person that their life matters, hope is real, and help is always within reach,” said Gesil Ramos, Behavioral Health Director for the VI Department of Health. Together, we can break the silence, reduce stigma, and create a community where no one feels alone.”

As part of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, the department’s Behavioral Health Division will also launch its first-ever Mental Health Radio Podcast Series on September 18. In collaboration with ROE FM 101.3 and Media One Productions LLC, the series will focus on opening conversations about mental health among the Gen Z population. Episodes will feature experts and youth perspectives, offering insights and resources to parents, teachers, counselors, and community leaders who support them.

Renan Steele, Deputy Commissioner for Behavioral Health for the VI Department of Health, highlighted the department’s dual approach of remembrance and proactive engagement.

“The candlelight walks and lantern releases are about honoring the lives we have lost and standing with those still struggling,” said Deputy Commissioner Steele. “At the same time, we know that prevention starts with conversation. That is why we are launching the podcast series—to create safe, open spaces where mental health is talked about, understood, and embraced as part of overall wellness. Our Gen Z youth deserve to be heard, supported, and empowered to thrive.”

Commissioner Encarnacion emphasized the importance of breaking cultural barriers around mental health. “Many of us, especially Gen Z, have carried the weight of two major hurricanes, the disruption and isolation of COVID-19, and daily pressures that can feel very overwhelming. We must give them the tools, the support, and the assurance that they are not alone. Talking about mental health is not a weakness; it is a step toward healing,” Commissioner Encarnacion said.

The radio podcast series is the first step in a broader campaign the VI Department of Health will launch in the coming months to engage the community in open, ongoing conversations about mental health and suicide prevention.

Finding Support

People can call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org for themselves or if they are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support. 988 serves as a universal entry point so that no matter where you live in the United States or its territories, you can reach a caring, trained counselor who can help.

988 offers 24/7 access to trained crisis counselors who can help people experiencing mental health-related distress including, thoughts of suicide, mental health or substance use crises, emotional distress and other reasons to connect.

Call 911, if danger for self-harm seems imminent.

St. Croix Man Arrested in Domestic Violence Case Involving Minor

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St. Croix Man Arrested in Domestic Violence Case Involving Minor

A St. Croix man was arrested after police said he strangled a minor during a domestic assault in Grove Place on Aug. 28.

According to the Virgin Islands Police Department, the 911 Emergency Call Center received the report at about 3:31 p.m. Officers from the Domestic Violence Unit and the Criminal Investigation Bureau responded and made contact with the victim, who said 54-year-old Kendell Smith, an adult family member, strangled her. The victim sustained injuries, and a witness also told police that Smith assaulted the minor.

Police said Smith was advised of his Miranda Rights and placed under arrest for assault in the second degree and simple assault and battery. Because the charges are classified as domestic violence, no bail was set until a judge reviews the case.

Smith was booked, processed, and taken to the John Bell Correctional Facility, where he is being held pending his Advice of Rights hearing, according to the release.

UVI Hosts Safety in Paradise Trainings Sept. 9 and 10 

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UVI Hosts Safety in Paradise Trainings Sept. 9 and 10 

The University of the Virgin Islands’ Caribbean Green Technology Center Safety in Paradise is very excited to invite you to participate in free safety trainings for Young Worker Safety and Health to be held on UVI’s Orville E. Kean Campus on St. Thomas on Sept. 9, and the Albert A. Sheen Campus on St. Croix on September 10.

Facilitated by Safety Consultant, Terrell Colvin, and Industrial Hygienist, Brandon Philpot of Georgia Tech Safety, Health & Environmental Services (SHES), and funded by a Susan Harwood Grant, these free 1.5-hour-long training sessions will focus on Safety and Health in the workplace for Young Workers and those who support them.

The Young Worker Safety and Health Training program is structured into two targeted sessions to address the unique needs of both young workers and those who support them.

Session One: For Young Workers (Under 25) 

This session is designed specifically for workers under the age of 25 and is divided into four focused modules:

  1. Understanding Injury and Illness Risks – Identifying common risks young workers face on the job.
  2. Recognizing Workplace Hazards – Learning how to spot potential dangers in various work environments.
  3. Preventing Injuries and Illnesses – Exploring strategies to reduce the likelihood of harm.
  4. Knowing Your Rights and Responsibilities – Empowering young workers with knowledge of their legal protections and duties.

Session Two: For Mentors, Teachers, and Trainers 

This session supports those who guide and educate young workers. It includes two modules:

  1. Bridging the Generational Gap in Safety Training – Techniques for effectively communicating safety practices across age groups.
  2. Understanding Worker Rights and Responsibilities – Ensuring mentors can accurately convey essential worker rights and protections for trainees.

Training sessions will be in person. Training materials and course content will be offered at no cost to interested participants.

St. Thomas

·       Young Worker Session: 

o   Sept. 9, 2025 – UVI 13D Research & Strategy Innovation Center | 10 AM-11:30 AM

o   Register: http://bit.ly/4mJe9js

·       Young Mentor Session: 

o   Sept. 9, 2025 – UVI 13D Research & Strategy Innovation Center | 1 PM-2:30 PM

o   Register: http://bit.ly/41rtRHe

St. Croix

·       Young Worker Session: 

o   Sept. 10, 2025 – UVI Medical Simulation Center                   | 10 AM-11:30 AM

 

  •      Young Mentor Session: 

o   Sept. 10, 2025 – UVI Medical Simulation Center                   | 1 PM-2:30 PM

o   Register: http://bit.ly/45WR718

Please note that individual registration is required for all personnel who plan to be in attendance by Monday, 8 Sept. 2025, as spaces are limited.

We very much hope that you can attend this event.

For further details, please visit https://www.facebook.com/uvi.safetyinparadise or contact us at uvisafetyinparadise@gmail.com or call (340) 693-1158.

Celebrate World Food Day With UVI Oct. 19

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Celebrate World Food Day With UVI Oct. 19

On Sunday, Oct. 19, World Food Day will be observed from noon to 6 p.m. on the grounds of the University of the Virgin Islands’ Albert A. Sheen Campus on St. Croix. The day will kick off with a formal opening ceremony and continue with educational workshops, a food vendor’s court, a farmers’ market, a Super Chef demonstration, and distribution of free vegetable seedlings.

(Submitted photo)

World Food Day, though officially celebrated on Oct. 16, is observed worldwide during the month of October and brings attention to the plight of the hungry and undernourished in the territory and around the world. This year’s World Food Day theme, selected by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, is “Hand in hand for a better life and a better future.”

“The School of Agriculture is committed to keeping all hands-on deck to increase and improve agricultural production and productivity for better foods and a better future in the territory.” said Dean and Director of UVI School of Agriculture, Dr. Usman Adamu.

Each year, three agricultural products are highlighted, and this year’s selections are passion fruit, sweet potato, and pork. While admission is free, attendees are asked to bring a non-perishable food item for the food drive. All items received will be donated to local food banks.

World Food Day is sponsored by the UVI School of Agriculture and the V.I. Department of Agriculture. For more information, please call Marthious Clavier at (340) 692-4090. The School of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

For more information, contact pr@uvi.edu.

Technical College Hosts Town Hall Meetings

Mat Probasco
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Technical College Hosts Town Hall Meetings

The Virgin Islands Technical College in collaboration with Senator Avery Lewis invites the public to attend two upcoming town hall meetings designed to engage the community in shaping the future of technical education in the territory.

These meetings will provide stakeholders with the opportunity to learn more about the Virgin Islands Technical College’s programs, share valuable feedback, and discuss questions and concerns regarding workforce development and community needs.

Meeting Details:

  • St. Thomas – Tuesday, Sept. 9, at 6 p.m. at Charlotte Amalie High School
  • St. Croix – Friday, Sept. 12, at 6 p.m. at St. Croix Educational Complex Auditorium

Purpose of the Town Halls:

  • To share information about programs and opportunities at the Virgin Islands Technical College.
  • To engage stakeholders in dialogue and gather feedback.
  • To address community questions, concerns, and ideas about technical education and workforce readiness.

Community involvement is vital as we work to build stronger pathways for students and future leaders. We encourage all residents to come out, participate, and help shape the vision of the Virgin Islands Technical College.

For more information, please email:

Denston Bacchus Dies at 76

Mat Probasco
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Denston Bacchus Dies at 76

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, brother, cousin, grandfather and uncle Denston Bacchus. Denston was born on Dec. 9, 1948, in the beautiful island of St. Vincent & Grenadines. 

Denston Bacchus

Denston was a lifelong educator, who dedicated 30-plus years as a teacher, counselor and principal between the islands of Barbados, St. Vincent and St. Croix, USVI where he spent most of his life. Denston who was affectionately known as “Denny” by most, was a deeply devoted Christian who believed his faith was best exemplified by the way he treated those around him and the relationships he cherished. He had a bliss for music, building, tinkering, planting, and growing and nothing gave him more joy than sharing those things with the people he loved.

Denny is survived by his wife, Audrey Bacchus; Sons, Duane Bacchus, Roy Bacchus, Deron Van Lange, Tony and Nigel Trimm; Daughters-in-law, Cleidy Bacchus and Kirsten Bacchus; Grandchildren, Aiden Bacchus, Cristianni Bacchus, Aviana Bacchus; Sisters, Euvan Bacchus, Veron Van Lange, Mildred McGrath, Carol Swamidass; Sisters-in-law, Eugenia Preudhomme-Beaubrunk, Euris Preudhomme-Stokes, Necisse Stokes, Sulline Antoine, Tara Preudhomme, Leona Preudhomme; Brothers-in-law, Alric Bacchus, Desmond Van Lange, Brian McGrath, Abraham Swamidass, Anthony Stokes, Aaron Preudhomme, Bennette Preudhomme, Hilary Carew, Meryl Antoine, and numerous cousins, nephews and nieces. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Owen and Methalyn Bacchus and Jemma Bacchus.

Denny has left an indelible mark on the lives of his family and friends, who will carry his memory forward with each gathering they share.

A funeral service to honor Denny’s life will be held at the Central Seventh Day Adventist Church on Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025. Viewing and tributes will begin at 9:00 am with service at 10 a.m. Interment will follow at Kingshill Cemetery. 

Professional services are entrusted to James Memorial Funeral Home, Inc. 

Gloria Belardo Gordon Dies

Mat Probasco
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Gloria Belardo Gordon Dies

It is with deep sorrow that the family announces the passing of Gloria Belardo Gordon on Aug. 23, 2025.

Gloria Belardo Gordon

She leaves behind her beloved children: Toussaint Gordon (Florence), Yvette Gordon-McFarlane (Beverly), and Hector “Luisito” Gordon (Yvette). Gloria is also survived by her grandchildren: Hector Jr., Cleorinda, Jenella, Shayna, Yasminelli, Roylee, and Kenlee; as well as great-grandchildren Rahiem, Rahniyah, Mahsiah, Nazir, Isabella, Savannah, Alleem, Leila, Aliyah, Joseph Jr., Jaliyah, Amaru, Johnny, Larue, Kaylee, Jayden, and Kaylanee.

A funeral service in her honor will take place on Monday, Sept. 8, at Sunny Acres Seventh-day Adventist Church. Tributes will begin at 9 a.m., followed by the main service at 10:00 AM.

Professional service entrusted to James Memorial Funeral Home, Inc. 

Austin Jose Francis Sr. Dies

Mat Probasco
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Austin Jose Francis Sr. Dies

SURVIVORS of AUSTIN JOSE FRANCIS SR.

Austin Jose Francis Sr

SONS————- MARIO “IUKI” FRANCIS, RAFAEL “AHJAH” FRANCIS,    EDWIN “IDIO” FRANCIS, GREGORY FRANCIS (preceded in death) AUSTIN “JAGAN” FRANCIS JR., ROBERTO “JOMO” FRANCIS (PRECEDED IN DEATH), JUSTIN “KWAME” FRANCIS, AUSTIN “CINCY” BARTLEY

DAUGHTERS—————– ANNA ‘ABENA ‘FRANCIS, MARIAN ‘AKILA’ FRANCIS HEDRINGTON, BARBARA ‘BARBIE’ FRANCIS   

GRANDSONS– ABDU, AHJAHRA, AKIIJAH, TACUMA, TWAISE, IIBA, ORANDE (preceded in death) IBRAHIM,   DEXODUS, DAVID “JABARI”, AFIMO, AKIMO, JAHMID, DE’VONTE,  DEAN JR. , KEISHAWN, GREGORY JR., ROBERTO JR., JEROME  

GRANDDAUGHTERS—EBONY, ISHEVAH, KUDUAH, RASHANA, IZELAH, RAPHAELA, KIBEBE,

IDEOLA, IFAMA, RASUMA, RASHIDA, RICHANNA, RISSAH, AFIYA, AISHA, ASHANA , KAMELLE, INNOCINCE, DE’VAUNEE, ASHANTE’, JAHTARA, KISHMA,JAHMARA AND SIMRA(preceded in death)

GREATGRANDSONS—–too numerous to mention

GREATGRANDDAUGHTERS—too numerous to mention

NEPHEWS—JULIO “BECK” FRANCIS III, HECTOR “ALEMU” FRANCIS JR., MIGUEL A. FRANCIS (PRECEDED IN DEATH), JULIAN “JUG” FRANCIS,  JAIME “WALLA” FRANCIS,   JUAN “ROACH” FRANCIS, JULITO FRANCIS,   E. RAFAEL FRANCIS,TYRONE “AKARBU” LATIN (preceded in death)

NIECES——- DIANE A. FRANCIS MARCH, DENISE FRANCIS GREEN, MD., JULIA FRANCIS, RUTH “RUTHIE” ABRAMSON, MICHELLE FRANCIS COLEMAN, ADELLE “KACHE” FRANCIS, BARBARA “BABSIE” FRANCIS, RAQUEL FRANCIS CALLWOOD AND DAPHNE MILAGROS FRANCIS

SON-IN-LAW—–LENNY HEDRINGTON

DAUGHTERS-IN-LAW—-RITA FRANCIS, MARIE BLAIZE FRANCIS, RAQUEL FRANCIS

FUNERAL SERVICE for Austin J Francis, Sr. will be on September 19, 2025, 9a -10am Tributes and 10am service at  Faith Christian Fellowship Church Alive in Christ

Interment- Veterans Cemetery

 

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