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Bryan Vetoes Wire Transfer Fee Bill and Portions of Epstein Settlement Appropriations, Citing Economic and Legal Concerns

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Bryan Vetoes Wire Transfer Fee Bill and Portions of Epstein Settlement Appropriations, Citing Economic and Legal Concerns

Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. has vetoed two significant bills passed by the Legislature, including a proposal to impose a 3 percent fee on money transfers, as well as portions of an appropriations bill tied to the combined $137.5 million in settlement funds from the estate of Jeffrey Epstein and financier Leon Black, who settled with the territory over his ties to Epstein.

Both measures, which were passed by lawmakers in late September, were intended to bolster the territory’s financial resources, but on Tuesday, Bryan raised concerns about their potential unintended consequences.

Money Transfer Fee Bill

Bill No. 35-0375, introduced by the Senate’s Appropriations and Budget Committee Chair Donna Frett-Gregory, was designed to generate approximately $21 million in new revenue by imposing a 3 percent on wire transfers. The funds were meant to help balance the Virgin Islands’ $1.2 billion budget and establish the Money Laundering and Electronic Transaction Enforcement Fund.

While the measure was intended to combat money laundering and boost government revenues, Bryan vetoed the bill, expressing concerns on Tuesday about its broad scope and impact on the business community and consumers.

“This measure could unfairly shift the burden of additional costs onto consumers,” Bryan said in a transmittal letter to Senate President Novelle Francis, noting that the fee would affect banks, credit unions, money transmitters, and others. He warned that businesses might pass the costs onto consumers, including college students, military personnel, and small business owners, at a time when inflation is already a concern.

Bryan also cited the potential conflict with the U.S. Constitution’s Commerce Clause, which regulates interstate trade, indicating that the wire transfer fee could face legal challenges.

Epstein Settlement Appropriations

Bryan also exercised his line-item veto authority on Bill No. 35-0380, which appropriated Epstein estate and Leon Black settlement funds for a range of infrastructure, health services, and economic development across the islands.

The Senate’s proposal, discussed in two back-to-back meetings on September 26, also included the establishment of the Southern Trust Company Settlement Fund and the Survivors and Mental Health Healing Trust Fund. While Bryan approved many of the bill’s provisions, he issued line-item vetoes for two specific sections, including a section appropriating $10 million to the Economic Development Authority (EDA) for private economic development.

Tuesday, Bryan said he had struck down this allocation, explaining that the EDA had already received $67 million from the federal government through the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI), making the additional $10 million unnecessary. “Allocating additional funds now would not be an efficient use of resources,” Bryan stated.

Bryan also vetoed Section 15, which directed that the settlement funds be placed into a high-interest-bearing account. The governor explained that the Epstein funds are already in such an account, making this section redundant.

Finally, Bryan vetoed Bill No. 35-0381, which sought to appropriate funds to the Attorney General’s Crime Prevention/Prosecution Fund and establish a new charitable fund for vulnerable and disenfranchised individuals. The bill, tied to $25 million from the Epstein Estate Master Settlement and Release Agreement (MSA), aimed to support crime prevention and prosecution efforts in the territory.

In his veto message, Bryan criticized the bill as “unnecessary and flawed,” pointing out that the MSA already ensures the automatic contribution of $25 million to the Attorney General’s Crime Prevention/Prosecution Fund, making the legislation redundant. Bryan further noted that the bill’s provision allowing the governor to contribute funds through the commissioner of Finance was unnecessary, as the contribution is mandated by the settlement agreement itself.

The bill also included a transfer of $5.3 million to organizations that assist vulnerable individuals, but Bryan’s veto emphasized that the existing structure of the MSA already covers the intended purpose of the bill.

Despite these vetoes, Bryan expressed support for the broader goal of using the settlement funds to improve infrastructure, mental health services, and the economic outlook of the Virgin Islands but emphasized the need for careful management and efficient use of resources.

Meanwhile, the governor approved the majority of fiscal year 2025 budget bills passed during the most recent Senate session, including a measure removing restrictions on the government’s existing $100 million line of credit to allow for outstanding vendor payments, among other things.

To read the governor’s transmittal letter to the senate president, click here.

DOH Talks Fever, VITEMA Talks Weather and DHS Talks SNAP

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DOH Talks Fever, VITEMA Talks Weather and DHS Talks SNAP
Dr. Esther Ellis talks about dengue fever at Tuesday’s Government House briefing. (Screenshot from Government House Facebook live stream)

During Tuesday’s Government House briefing, Dr. Esther Ellis, the V.I. Health Department’s territorial epidemiologist reported that there are 138 confirmed cases of dengue across the territory, with the likelihood of even more cases. Other officials discussed the potential for inclement weather in the area, upcoming emergency alerts and procedures, as well as updates on SNAP benefits.

Dengue

Of the 138 cases, there are 97 confirmed on St. Thomas, 37 on St. John and St. Croix has four.

“The Aedes aegypti mosquito thrives in the current rainy weather conditions, making it crucial for residents to know how to protect themselves and prevent transmission,” Ellis said. The fever can “sometimes be life-threatening,” she added.

Dengue fever results from a bite by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which can be found in the territory, especially around standing water. Symptoms are fever, eye, bone, joint and muscle pain, headache, nausea, vomiting and rash.

Most people recover in about a week but severe dengue shows up a day or two after the fever subsides, Ellis said. Approximately one in 20 people who contract dengue will develop severe fever. The symptoms are severe abdominal pain, vomiting, bleeding, and extreme fatigue, and require immediate medical attention. Infants, pregnant women and those with previous infections are the most vulnerable.

Ellis told The Source later Tuesday that one person has been hospitalized with severe dengue and the V.I. Health Department records have been updated to reflect the change.

The V.I. Health Department (DOH) is working with the Centers for Disease Control and the Puerto Rico Health Department to combat the outbreak, especially in the St. Thomas-St. John District, Ellis said.

High-risk zones- more than five confirmed cases – include Smith’s Bay, Anna’s Retreat, Charlotte Amalie Estate and Bovoni on St. Thomas and Fish Bay on St. John. Teams will inspect residential areas, apply larvicides, try to control breeding sites and educate the public until Nov. 8.

Ellis also warned about another mosquito-borne illness — chikungunya. Symptoms include severe joint pain and swelling, headache, muscle pain, rash, fever and fatigue. It can be transmitted from human to human through an infected mosquito’s bite. The last upsurge was in 2014, and “we’re due an outbreak.” She recommended anyone who didn’t get the fever in 2014 should be vaccinated.

The free vaccine is available through October for adults 18 years and older, through the DOH. The single-dose vaccine is available at:

  • St. Croix — Second Floor, former Caribe Home Center Building, in Castle Coakley.  Vaccination is available Monday through Thursday between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. For more information, please call 340-712-0131.
  • St. Thomas — Second Floor, Schneider Regional Medical Center, Monday through Thursday between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. For more information, please call 340-774-7477.

While there is little risk to Virgin Islanders and only 12 cases of H5N1 or Bird Flu, DOH is “closely monitoring,” and cases have been confirmed in the United States, Ellis said. So far, it has affected mostly dairy workers in California.

“No, we haven’t seen any cases in the V.I.,” she said, but DOH will keep the public updated.

VITEMA

Executive Director Daryl Jaschen, from the V.I. Territorial Emergency Management Agency, warned Virgin Islanders, especially those living on St. Croix to continue to shelter from the extreme heat. He recommended wearing light clothing, staying inside during the hottest part of the day and consuming plenty of fluids. Workers should rest frequently in the shade and if heat stroke is suspected, call 911 or go to the emergency room.

With the approach of 94L, an increase in rip currents is expected towards the weekend, Jaschen said.

“The system is forecast to move generally westward and environmental conditions could become more conducive for gradual development by the middle or later part of the week. A tropical depression could form as it begins moving west-northwestward and approaches the Leeward Islands later this week. Anticipate strong thunderstorms and heavy rains to accompany this area as it passes through,” he said.

V.I. Human Services Department

Human Services Commissioner Avril George announced good news for families who hope to qualify for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Beginning Oct. 1, the gross income limit for Categorically Eligible SNAP households has been increased from 130 percent to 175 percent of the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines.

“This increase comes at a critical time when the cost of living is rising. More households will qualify for food assistance, meaning fewer families will have to choose between putting food on the table and meeting other essential needs,” George said. “This adjustment will impact thousands of families across the Virgin Islands.”

For more information, visit www.dhs.gov.vi or DHS Facebook page, or call Family Assistance.

Other Announcements

Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. held the first meeting of the V.I. Commission on Aging, mandated by the V.I. Legislature. The group will advocate for the territory’s seniors and was tasked by the governor with selecting leaders, creating bylaws and a budget, and other challenges.

Governor’s Council on Aging was mandated not just to limit advocacy but to think of activities to keep seniors engaged as well as create by-laws and a budget.

The DOH will host several breast cancer awareness events in October. The “Fearless” Breast and Prostate Cancer Walk and Trunk or Treat will kick off the events on Oct. 26 at 5:30 p.m. at Emile Griffith Park on St. Thomas, followed by a Men’s and Women’s Health Fair on St. Croix on Oct. 27, at UVI and concluding with the Stomp Out Breast Cancer Walk with Juan F. Luis Hospital on Oct. 30 at 5.30 p.m. Visit Virgin Islands DOH on Facebook for more information.

Jaschen advised signing up for Alert VI to get warnings about hurricanes, earthquakes and other emergencies and public announcements. To sign up, text 89361 and 87844 to 340-713-1880.

Low-intensity earthquakes have been felt recently, and a worldwide earthquake drill will be held on Thursday at 10:17 am. “Drop, cover, and hold on” is the drill for the Great Shakeout, he said. Tsunami warnings will also be tested on Thursday.

St. John multipurpose center will reopen on Oct. 28 to provide DHS services, George said.

The Region 2 Headstart conference will be held Oct. 28 – 30 at the Westin Hotel on St. Thomas and 600 participants are expected, according to George.

Elections Board Member Ordered to Apologize for Early Voting Incident

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Elections Board Member Ordered to Apologize for Early Voting Incident
A disruption during the first day of early voting on St. Thomas led to a vote for an Elections board member’s apology. (Source file photo)

A member of the Board of Elections was ordered by her fellow members to apologize after a disruptive incident that took place at the site of early voting on Monday. The order arose from a vote taken at an emergency meeting of the elections board held on Tuesday afternoon.

But one board member described the meeting to address Monday’s alleged incident where Board Member Harriet Mercer disrupted a voting site as stressful, irregular and possibly illegal. The emergency session was held by way of live stream video. Some participants — including board members — struggled with connectivity lapses, while an executive session lasting close to 75 minutes kept the public from observing most of the proceedings.

In a series of votes taken Tuesday, a motion was passed directing Mercer to write a letter apologizing to Deputy Elections Supervisor Kevermay Douglas and Elections staff members who witnessed the incident. The apology is to be submitted within 48 hours, and if failing to do so, Mercer will be censured and barred from appearing at any place where balloting for the General Election takes place in 2024.

An amendment posed by Mercer was voted down; had it passed, it would have compelled the board to delay any votes until they could review a written communication submitted by the alleged offender and then to hear from Fawkes about her views on what took place.

Former Board Chairman Raymond Williams described the incident as prompting the demand for an apology without specificity. “There was a matter that Harriet was causing disruptions at the start of early voting to the point that it was scaring the voters and scaring the elections workers, and Kevermay had to call the police,” Williams said.

Monday’s incident had nothing to do with Fawkes, Williams said, so any report she could make to the board was unnecessary. “We have a responsibility to our community at large, so you can’t go on like that,” he said.

Early voting on St. Thomas and St. Croix takes place between Oct. 14 and Oct. 28; voters wishing to cast ballots in early voting on St. John can do so starting Oct. 21. Williams said the balloting is conducted by Elections System workers and election board members are supposed to serve only as observers.

Having police on site at voting events is a routine procedure. Attempts to reach V.I. Police Department Communications Director Glen Dratte about Monday’s police response at St. Thomas Election Systems headquarters did not receive a reply.

VIPA Hosts Public Hearing To Discuss Upcoming Cruise Ship Fee Increases

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VIPA Hosts Public Hearing To Discuss Upcoming Cruise Ship Fee Increases
A public hearing attendee poses a question about the price increases. (Screenshot from VIPA Zoom meeting)

The Virgin Islands Port Authority held a public hearing Tuesday evening on St. Thomas to discuss increases in cruise ship fees expected to occur in 2025 in the St. Thomas-St. John district, as the authority, seeks to fund its upcoming projects and operations.

According to the authority’s Director, Carlton Dowe, the marine tariffs were last amended on Jan. 21, 2023. The cruise ship fees are established by tariffs via contracts with cruise lines and are applied according to the date of board approval. The latest increase was approved by the Port Authority board in September. According to the amendment, port dues will increase by $3 per passenger and will fund the Charlotte Amalie Harbor Dredging Project. The current rate is $6.84 cents and the new rate will be $9.84 per passenger. The Port Authority collects these fees directly. Additionally, the wharfage fees will increase by $0.44 cents per passenger for cruise ships entering the district and will fund the Port Authority’s marine operations and expenses. The current rate is $7.80 and will increase to $8.24. This fee will be collected by the West Indian Company when ships berth at West Indian Company Dock (WICO) in Havensight and by the Port Authority when ships berth at the Austin “Babe” Monsanto Marine Terminal in Crown Bay and on St. John.

“All cruise ships entering the harbors pay port dues to the Virgin Islands Port Authority. WICO collects a wharfage fee of all ships that use their facility,” said Dowe.

The effective date of the increases will be:

Wharfage at the WICO Dock— Jan. 1, 2025

Wharfage in Crown Bay and St. John— by April 1, 2025

Port dues in the St. Thomas- St. John district— by April 1, 2025

The marine terminal tax in the district will also remain at $1. No tariffs apply to cruise ships entering the St. Croix district. Fees in St. Croix are currently $3.45 for port dues and $3.55 for wharfage fees.

According to Dowe, the West Indian Company and the Disney, Norwegian, and Carnival cruise lines requested the Charlotte Amalie Harbor be dredged to 40 feet. But, he added that “there was no dedicated money to dredge the harbor.” Hence, the desire for the tariff increases.

VI Port Authority Director Carlton Dowe addresses attendees at the public hearing about cruise ship marine tariff increases. (Screenshot from VIPA Zoom meeting)

“VIPA is responsible for dredging the USVI’s harbors, but does not have the financial resources to do so,” said Dowe. “The government of the V.I. is assisting with funding the Charlotte Amalie Harbor Dredging, but it will not cover all costs.”

Dowe also mentioned that the central government has set aside $17 million for the project.

Timeline for the Charlotte Amalie Harbor Dredging Project:

Issuance of Request for Proposals— end of October 2024

Request for Proposals due— December 2024

Bid award by the Port Authority board— January 2025,

Project start date— second quarter of 2025

Project completion date— 24 months after the project start date

“There are all kinds of mitigating factors that can occur,” Dowe said, adding world events and local changes can impact a project’s timeline. However, he expects the authority to be able to achieve its anticipated timeline goals.

Attendees at the hearing shared their concerns about the price increases. Some feared cruise lines would decide to go to other Caribbean destinations with lower fees or choose instead to dock at St. Croix.

“We have no written communication from anyone,” replied Dowe in response to a meeting participant inquiring about vessels who might have expressed not wanting to dock in the district due to the fee increase.

Another attendee asked about the risks to cruise lines associated with the price increases.

“We don’t see the risk to any lines in terms of what we’re putting forward,” said Dowe. “None of this was done in some vacuum.” He added, “These fees that we’re talking about in terms of doing this project, the risk of not doing it is greater than the risk that we’re embarking on.”

Dowe added that some cruise lines are charging their passengers more fees. According to the director, Royal Caribbean has already agreed, for almost a year, that their passengers will pay an additional $5 per passenger to enter the district, and once dredging is done in St. Croix, to pay an additional $5 to berth there as well.

Dowe also highlighted for attendees that for some time, berthing in St. Croix was free for cruise lines and was not financially gainful for the territory.

“For more than 25 years, all cruise ship passengers going into St. Croix was free,” he said. “It cost the authority about $400,000 every year.”

Dowe also said to attendees that if the harbors were operated by the federal government, the fee increases would not have to be applied.

“Most ports throughout the United States that have this type of activity are funded by the Army Corps of Engineers,” Dowe said. “Their harbors are federalized harbors.”

Though much apprehension was shared by attendees who work as taxi drivers, salesmen, and business owners about the wage increases, Dowe ended the hearing, informing the public that “While we may agree to disagree, leadership dictates sometimes that we do things that are uncomfortable to some. But leaders must lead. And we’re at a place where we can no longer avoid this dredging. We’ve got to move forward with this dredging project.”

Photo Focus: VI Justice Initiative Harvest Festival Raises Over $50,000 for Legal Aid

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Photo Focus: VI Justice Initiative Harvest Festival Raises Over $50,000 for Legal Aid
Friends and Family in the Pumpkin Patch (Source photo by Jonelle-Alexis Jackson)

The Virgin Islands Justice Initiative’s third annual “Harvest Festival and Pumpkin Patch,” held at Magens Bay Beach on Oct. 12, raised more than $50,000 to support free legal representation and educational programs across the U.S. Virgin Islands. Hundreds of attendees came together for a day filled with family activities, local food, and cultural performances, with all proceeds going toward the initiative’s mission of providing legal aid to underserved communities.

This year’s festival also introduced the VI Justice Initiative’s new slogan: “Planting Seeds for Community Driven Advocacy.” Volunteers, sporting t-shirts with the slogan, assisted with the event, fostering a strong sense of community involvement.

Staff and volunteers ready to answer questions about the VI Justice Initiative. (Source photo by Jonelle-Alexis Jackson)

“The new slogan truly represents our work,” said Casey Payton, executive director of the VI Justice Initiative. “It’s about planting small seeds of change that will grow into a stronger, more connected community.”

Harvest Festival staff and volunteers show off decorated pumpkins. (Source photo by Jonelle-Alexis Jackson)

A key attraction of the festival was the Farmers Market, which celebrated the territory’s agricultural potential. Large pumpkins locally grown by Farmer Whaler, Wenner Hill Gardens Cooperative, and other vendors were available, symbolizing the islands’ growing ability to produce their own food.

Pumpkins grown by Farmer Whaler (Source photo by Jonelle-Alexis Jackson)

In addition to pumpkins, the market featured a variety of locally sourced produce, including fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as products from a local honey vendor, showcasing the diversity and abundance of the Virgin Islands’ agricultural offerings.

“It’s important for people to support local growers. When you buy local, you’re not only getting fresh produce, but you’re also investing in the future of our islands,” said Chico George.

Farmers Market Vendor Produce (Source photo by Jonelle-Alexis Jackson)

Festival attendees enjoyed various local cultural performances that highlighted the traditions of the Virgin Islands. Asar Gregory, a 10th-grade student, performed steelpan music that filled the air with joyful energy. Talvin Nagi and K’Dar Moore, also students, dazzled the crowd with their moko jumbie performances, bringing the island’s stilt-walking tradition to life. The celebration continued with a Tropical Treasure Hunt, more moko jumbie dancing from Yisrael’s Ambassadors of Culture, and an energetic dance routine by the MLB School of Dance.

Mocko jumbies Talvin Nagi and K’Dar Moore (Source photo by Jonelle-Alexis Jackson)

Alongside the cultural performances, families enjoyed a variety of activities. The Kids Zone featured face painting, pumpkin carving, and pumpkin painting. The Pumpkin Patch was a popular attraction, providing a fun, hands-on experience for children and families. The Tractor Hayride, sponsored by RapierMed, offered scenic rides around the beautiful Magens Bay, giving children and adults a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the island.

Children enjoy face painting. (Source photo by Jonelle-Alexis Jackson)

Pumpkin Patch and Hayride Tractor Mobile Mural, created by multimedia visual artist Sarah-Ann Mitchell, was also featured at the event. These vibrant, community-inspired artworks invited attendees to engage directly with the colorful and creative displays.

Harvest Festival Pumpkin Patch (Source photo by Jonelle-Alexis Jackson)

Since its founding in 2022, the VI Justice Initiative has focused on providing free legal services through its Clean Slate Program, which helps individuals clear their criminal records.

To date, the initiative has successfully cleared 23 criminal records, working toward its goal of expunging 50 records by the end of this year. The organization is currently assisting more than 40 Virgin Islanders with expungement cases, supported by a team of staff and volunteer attorneys. The initiative also runs the “Teen Education and Criminal Deterrence Project: Know Your Rights,” which educates youth about their legal rights and the consequences of certain behaviors that could lead to a criminal record. Through workshops held in schools and community centers, the project aims to empower teens with knowledge that can help them make informed choices and avoid legal issues that may limit future opportunities.

Mobile Murals created by multimedia artist Sarah-Ann Mitchell (Source photo by Jonelle-Alexis Jackson)

“Our goal is to give people the tools they need to overcome their past and build a better future,” said Payton. “By offering free legal services and educating our youth, we’re helping both individuals and the entire community.”

The success of the Harvest Festival was made possible through the generous support of numerous sponsors. The Pumpkin Patch, sponsored by Perfected Claims, and the Tractor Hayride, sponsored by RapierMed, were just a few of the attractions backed by local businesses and organizations. Additional sponsors included ICMC & International Private Bank Alpine Securities USVI, Yacht Haven Grande, Carl Williams at SmithWilliams PLC, Firstbank, The Walker Legal Group, Merchants Commercial Bank, Keswick Insurance, VI Lottery, St. Thomas Properties, VI Department of Sports, Parks & Recreation, Custom Builders, The VI Source, Viya, Magens Bay Authority, Office of Gun Violence Prevention, Botany Bay Rum, Rock Citees Printing, Bailey Waste Management & Delivery Services, Mr. Happy Trucking, Fairchild’s Beach Bar & Grill, and Cost-U-Less. Their contributions, alongside donations from festival attendees, were instrumental in advancing the mission of the VI Justice Initiative to provide legal aid and promote justice throughout the Territory.

To learn more about the VI Justice Initiative and how you can support their work, visit vijustice.org

Ellen Thedora Kent Dies at 100

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Ellen Thedora Kent Dies at 100
Ellen Thedora Kent

Ellen Thedora Kent, also known as “Mom,” of Lauderdale Lakes, Fla., died on Oct. 1. She was 100 years old.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Michael Agustus Kent; mother, Ida Glassford; father, Herbert Benjamin; sons: James N. “Earl” Kent and Winston M. Kent; grandchild, Yvette I. Benjamin; sister, Emily Grant; brothers: Charles Almond, Wentworth Amory and Johnny Phipps; and daughter-in-law, Annette Bass Kent.

She is survived by her daughters: Minola Matthew, Mary M. Kent and Aneta A. Guishard; sons: Austin E. Benjamin, Steadroy A. Kent, Lloyd A. Kent and Doval L. Kent (Pastor); and grandchildren: Valencia I.C. Benjamin, Cameron J. Guishard, Vashti Oyamielen, Vanesti Bennett, Cameron P. Kent, Anjela Bacchus, Javella Browne, Virgil A. Kent, Bijorna Kent-Farquharson, Chad Kent, Za’heem T. Edwards, Dameon Govia, Babette Benjamin, Gloria Smith, Genesis Wade Walwyn, Allison Walwyn, Ranisha Kent, Renicia Kent, Devon Govia, Pastor Hesketh Matthew, Calvin Matthew, Tarsha Matthew, Carrissa Matthew, Kateisha Matthew and Andria Matthew.

She is also survived by great-grandchildren: Janelle Herbert, Janecia Matthew, Janaine Matthew, Travis Herbert, Tarik Searles, Calize and Camelle Matthew, Amir Bacchus, Jameel Bacchus, Raiana Browne, Raijae Browne, Daequoncia Matthew, Daeshan Matthew, Serenity Bennett, Jazmin Oyamielen, Kaiya Oyamielen, Durell Flintroy, Ehrin Flintroy, Genelle Booker, Jamiella Peterseon, Arielle Benjamin, Kadin Chance, Bryce Lane, Chadero Kent, Chaedyn Kent, Dameon Govia Jr., Madison Govia, Tyler Govia, Jordyn Govia, Suriyah Guishard, Zyirah Kent, Zaliyah Kent, De Miya Carter, Tahlise Connor, Dequann David, Adrian Augustin Jr., KyMahri Smith, Channing Hudson Jr., Demarion Carter and Tayvion Govia.

She is also survived by nieces: Iza Bernadine Samos, Bonnie Grant- Huges, Grace Grant, Eileen Hinnis, Beatrice Percival, Christine Wattley, Dorothy Warner and Alvis Charles; nephews: Nepo/Leroy Benjamin, Franklyn Grant, Lloyd Grant, Jim and James Bedford, Stanford Benjamin, Peter Grant, Gerard Charles, Eustus Charles, Rodney Charles and Lenox Bedford; aunts: Ida Burt, also known as “Aunty Baby” and “Aunty Sue;” daughters-in-law: Gloria A. Benjamin, Icilma I. Kent and Jacinta St. Clair; sons-in-law: Donald Matthew and Basil Guishard; granddaughter-in-law, Julie-Ann Govia; grandson-in-law, Maurice Oyamielen; and sister-in-law, Christmas “Chrisie” Amory.

Other survivors include special friends: The Inner Circle Prayer Group, Joan Browne, Jozette Matthew, Sandra Barbel-Ravariere, Carl and Elmona Miller,  Shakima Edwards, Central Seventh-day Adventist, Sabbath School Ext Group, Ushers and Prayer Group, Pastor Maurice and Claudette Andrews, Sharmin Natta, Pastor Wilmoth and Linda James, Tesser Archibald-Hazel and Anna Miller, Beulah Bruce, Peggy Nestor, Janet and Samarie, Estherlyn Walwyn, Akeema Browne, Harella Goodwin and Anetta Joseph; cousins and other relatives, Pastor Desmond James and family, Carlton and Iris Leonard Tyson and family, Veronica A. Huggins and family, also known as “Ellen,’’ Morisia Morrishaw-Kent, Cory and Lynn Kent and family; as well as other relatives and friends too numerous to mention.

The viewing will be held at 9 a.m. followed by a funeral service at 10 a.m., Sunday, Oct. 20, at Central Seventh-day Adventist Church. Interment will be at Kingshill Cemetery.

Professional services are entrusted to James Memorial Funeral Home Inc.

IRS Warns Taxpayers of Charity Scams Following Recent Hurricanes

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IRS Warns Taxpayers of Charity Scams Following Recent Hurricanes
Internal Revenue Service

In the aftermath of hurricanes Milton and Helene, the Internal Revenue Service today cautioned taxpayers of scammers who use fake charities to gather sensitive personal and financial data from unsuspecting donors.

Scammers commonly set up fake charities to take advantage of people’s generosity during natural disasters and other tragic events.

“Many people want to help survivors and their families by donating to charities,” said IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel. “Too often, criminals take advantage of would-be donors’ kindness by stealing money and personal information from well-meaning taxpayers. You should never feel pressured by solicitors to immediately give to a charity. It’s important to do the research to verify if they’re authentic first.”

Tax-Exempt Organization Search Tool

Those interested in making donations should first check the Tax-Exempt Organization Search (TEOS) tool on www.IRS.gov to help find or verify qualified, legitimate charities. With this tool, people can:

  • Verify the legitimacy of a charity,
  • Check its eligibility to receive tax-deductible charitable contributions, and
  • Search for information about an organization’s tax-exempt status and filings.

 Tips to Avoid Fake Charities

  • Always verify. Scammers frequently use names that sound like well-known charities to confuse people. Fake charity promoters may use emails, fake websites or alter or “spoof” their caller ID to make it look like a real charity is calling to solicit donations. Potential donors should ask the fundraiser for the charity’s name, website and mailing address so they can independently confirm the information. Use the Tax-Exempt Organization Search tool to verify if an organization is a legitimate tax-exempt charity.
  • Be cautious about how a donation is requested. Never work with charities that ask for donations by giving numbers from a gift card or by wiring money. That’s a scam. It’s safest to pay by credit card or check — and only after verifying the charity is real.
  • Don’t share too much information. Scammers are on the lookout for both money and personal information. Never disclose Social Security numbers, credit card numbers or personal identification numbers.
  • Don’t give in to pressure. Scammers often pressure people into making an immediate payment. In contrast, legitimate charities are happy to get a donation at any time. Donors should not feel rushed.

The IRS also encourages individuals encountering a fake or suspicious charity to see the FBI’s resources on Charity and Disaster Fraud.

Claim a Deduction

Taxpayers who give money or goods to a charity can claim a deduction if they itemize deductions, but these donations only count if they go to a qualified tax-exempt organization recognized by the IRS.

U.S. Border Patrol Apprehends 11 Non-Citizens Off Coast of St. Thomas

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U.S. Border Patrol Apprehends 11 Non-Citizens Off Coast of St. Thomas

U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Border Patrol and Marine Interdiction Agents apprehended 11 non-citizens from Romania, Brazil and the Dominican Republic traveling on a private vessel from St. Thomas, Virgin Islands to Culebra, Puerto Rico, Sunday, the agency announced.

“Smuggling organizations exploit diverse routes and methods to introduce people or contraband throughout Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands,” indicated Reggie Johnson, acting chief patrol agent for the Ramey Border Patrol Sector. “We have the collective resolve to address illicit flows and protect our communities by collaborating with local and federal partners.”

On Sunday, Oct. 13, a crew of Marine Interdiction and Border Patrol agents on patrol found a vessel that was having mechanical trouble and was requesting assistance near Botany Bay, USVI. Inside the vessel, the agents found a group of 11 non-citizens who did not have documents to prove an authorized presence in the United States, according to the press release.

The agents transported the group consisting of two adult women and two adult men from Romania, two adult men from Brazil, and five adult men from the Dominican Republic to the USBP/ERO co-location facility at Crown Mountain for processing and removal, the press release stated.

U.S. Border Patrol analyzes and responds to any changes in migration patterns, particularly irregular migration outside of legal pathways and border crossings and works with our federal and international partners to combat human smuggling, the release stated.

The Ramey Sector is one of the twenty-one sectors spread out across the United States. Encompassing the U.S. territorial islands of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, it is the only Border Patrol Sector located outside the continental United States. The sector’s entire border area is made up of coastline, and its area of responsibility is made up of some 6,000 square miles of land and water, including the twelve-mile band of territorial water surrounding the Islands, it said.

For anonymous tips, contact 800-981-1313.

 

‘Why Me? Why Not You?’ — New Children’s Book Delights and Inspires

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‘Why Me? Why Not You?’ — New Children’s Book Delights and Inspires
“Why Me? Why Not You?: Salt and Sugar Want to Switch” by Lyscelle M. Welcome-Reyes (Submitted photo)

“Why Me? Why Not You?: Salt and Sugar Want to Switch” by Lyscelle M. Welcome-Reyes with illustrations by Lysca D. Welcome-Tenia and Michelle M. Cann-Callender is a children’s book that not only delights but also inspires. It stimulates the imagination, becoming like a school backpack that is taken everywhere the child goes, filled with endless possibilities and creativity.

This super engaging, unforced work of 31 pages is not just for children but for the whole family. It serves as a powerful intergenerational platform for storytelling, inviting everyone to participate and bond over the narrative. It iss a unique opportunity to create moments of connection and unity, strengthening the family bond through shared reading experiences.

This storyteller for the book made the tale exciting and a learning tool centered around the negotiating characters Salt and Sugar, who were curious about what made the other tick. In other words, they wanted a better understanding of their differences, not knowing they had more in common than what was so different. It is a rich educational journey, introducing word definitions, sentence construction, and an introduction to geography, functional science and storytelling interdependent skills.

The story begins with a conversation about the appearance of Salt and Sugar and how much they look alike, which brings confusion until they are tasted. How sweet and sticky would everything be if Sugar were used instead of Salt? The eyes of the precious characters light up. The honeybees begin playing the musical steel pans, trumpets and drums, while the sad eyes of the salty characters, like the crabs, fish and seaweed, demonstrate dissatisfaction if the Salt were to be removed from the sea.

In the book’s center, which begins the story’s climax, all the characters in the kitchen cupboard shout about their unique properties. For instance, Salt is known for enhancing flavors, while Sugar is loved for its sweetness. They also discuss how they are used and agree they cannot be replaced because they each have a unique gift.

As one approaches the book’s closing, one stumbles across the recipe corner, which not only provides fun things to prepare to munch on while reading but also adds an element of fun and engagement to the reading experience.

The author is a skilled educator, a product of the University of the Virgin Islands and a parent. She knows that through her writing and reading, there’s nothing better than participatory learning, especially for Generation Z. She included an attractive closing of a creative participatory, hands-on coloring book that not only entertains but also helps children with body coordination and learning about color concepts, making the learning process fun and engaging.

This book was also created to be included in the Core Collection in everybody’s personal and developing bookcase. That’s how Dr. Welcome-Reyes rolls! So, join the author by reading “Why Me? Why Not You?: Salt and Sugar Want to Switch?”Read the book aloud, pronounce all the new words, identify the colors and shapes, and arrive at your conclusion.

Critique by O.D. Alexander, a retired Saint Croix Central High School music teacher.  He has also taught at the Julius E. Sprauve School and Guy Benjamin School on St. John. He can be reached at od.alex1972@gmail.com

Repeat Offender Charged with Unlawful Gun Possession After Felony Convictions

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Repeat Offender Charged with Unlawful Gun Possession After Felony Convictions

Jahmar Frederick, 31, of St. Croix, was charged with unlawful possession of a firearm after having been convicted of felony offenses, United States Attorney Delia L. Smith announced.

According to court documents, on May 11, Virgin Islands Police Officers attempted
to conduct a traffic stop after Frederick was observed operating a Ford F-150 pickup truck with no license plate. Frederick fled from VIPD officers and ultimately lost control of his vehicle and slid off the roadway. Frederick then placed a ski mask over his face and attempted to flee on foot but was apprehended. Officers recovered a loaded Glock Model 22 Gen4 .40 Caliber firearm after taking Frederick into custody. In 2023, Frederick was convicted of obtaining money by false pretenses, and in 2018, he was convicted of forgery, both felonies. If convicted, Frederick faces a maximum sentence of up to 15 years in prison. A district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

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