US Virgin Islands
[singlepic id=4817 w=180 h=40 mode=web20 float=left]Good morning! This is Alex Randall with Good News Headlines
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Nazareth Eviction Put On Hold
Territorial Court Judge Brenda Holler said she would withhold her decision on a request by the V.I. government to evict the families still living at the Nazareth emergency housing unit. Those families have been living rent free for the past 18 months. There were originally about 200 and many have found permanent housing, but a handful about 14 still are having trouble making the move. Senator Celestino White is trying to find an alternative site where the families can stay while they continue their search for permanent homes.
Current Conditions in Paradise:
Temperature: 79 Degrees at 2 PM Skies: Overcast Chance of Showers: >40 percent. Water Temp: Perfect Beach and Swimming Conditions: You know… Sailing and Diving Conditions: World Class! Drinks: Hot Lemongrass Tea
Emancipation Celebration
The 150th anniversary of V.I. emancipation may soon receive a boost of $250,000. The 22nd Legislature this week approved the funding. The bill’s sponsor, Senator Almando “Rocky” Liburd thanked his colleagues for supporting the bill on an 11-2 vote. Liburd said, by providing adequate funding, the emancipation celebration will put the Virgin Islands on the global stage. He also expressed hope that celebrating freedom will renew the strength, pride, and determination of the entire community.
Park Fees
Virgin Islands National Park Superintendent Russel Berry, Jr. says residents need not worry about his proposal to institute an admission fee. Speaking before the Rotary Club Thursday, Berry said the park needs extra money to keep it in good shape. But for as little as $10 to $15 a year, locals would be able to obtain an annual visitor’s pass. The Virgin Islands National Park was recently rated as one of the most popular places to visit in the entire U.S. park system. Berry says it brings between $40M to $45M into the local economy every year.
Gypsy Taxi
Taxi Commissioner Keith Massac is asking the public to help curb the use of illegal taxis. Gypsy cabs are private cars which are not licensed by the taxi commission which pick up passengers and charge fees that may not be approved by the taxi commission. Massac says this operation hinders the legal taxi drivers by taking away potential passengers and while he admits its a tough call the taxi commissioner is asking the public’s cooperation.
Teen Advocates
At times the best person a young person can turn to is another young person. A group called Virgin Islands Advocacy in recognition of this is sponsoring a workshop for high school students on St. Thomas and St. Croix to provide assertiveness training and to teach negotiating skills. Meanwhile, the governor’s youth advisory board is planning a town meeting on the island of St. John focusing on school violence, drug abuse, teen pregnancy, and bilingual education.