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Local News

Evelyn Adams Rosario Dies at 58

Evelyn Adams Rosario, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on June 21 in Townsend, Delaware.

Born on July 12, 1966, to Esperanza and Gregory Adams, Evelyn was the eldest of five children and spent her early years between New York City and St. Croix. She graduated from William H. Maxwell Vocational High School in Brooklyn in 1984, where she trained as a medical assistant and in medical billing and coding. After graduating, she moved to St. Croix to pursue a career as a legal assistant, working with many prominent attorneys on the island.

Evelyn married Eddie Rosario on December 19, 1987, and together they had two children: Eddie A. Rosario and Clarissa L. Rosario-Govia, and bonus daughter Taysha Rosario who were the joys of her life. A devoted Christian, Evelyn was known for her vibrant laughter, generosity, and deep devotion to her family. She is preceded in death by her husband, Eddie Rosario; her parents, Esperanza and Gregory Adams; and her sister, Jocelyn Adams.

Evelyn is survived by her son, Eddie A. Rosario; her daughters, Clarissa L. Rosario-Govia and Taysha Rosario; Daughter-in-law Letysha Plaskett-Rosario; Son-in-law Akeem Govia and her grandchildren: Eleani K. Rosario, Jeanlyn L. Govia, Akeem J. Govia Jr., Isaiah E. Govia, Xavier L. Govia, Layla L. Govia, Eliel Rosario, Jeremiah Rosario, and Alyssa Weaver. She is also survived by her siblings: Gregory Adams, Joey Adams, Pernel Mitchell, and Daveta Adams. Additionally, she leaves behind many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, relatives, and close friends too numerous to mention.

A viewing will be held on July 17th from 5 PM to 6 PM at Kingshill Funeral Home in Kingshill, St. Croix. The funeral service will take place on July 18th Viewing 9:00 am and 10:00 AM at Alpha y Omega in Strawberry Hill, with interment at Kingshill Cemetery.

July 14, 2025

Local News

Southwest Airlines Begins St. Thomas Service in 2026

Southwest Airlines is officially headed to St. Thomas. In an announcement Monday morning, the airline confirmed plans to launch service to Cyril E. King International Airport in early 2026 — adding the U.S. Virgin Islands to its growing list of Caribbean destinations for the first time.
The news marks a major win for the territory’s tourism sector and caps what officials described as a multi-year push to expand airlift into the islands. According to the V.I. Department of Tourism, the new partnership reflects close collaboration between the Bryan administration, the department, and the Virgin Islands Port Authority, all working to make the territory more accessible to travelers.
“Today marks an exciting milestone for the U.S. Virgin Islands and our growing tourism industry,” Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. said in a statement, adding that the government is proud to welcome Southwest to St. Thomas and looks forward to “greeting new travelers to our beautiful island home.”
Tourism Commissioner Joseph Boschulte said the service will open the door to expanded travel options for visitors and help further showcase the territory’s natural beauty and culture.
Southwest, which hasn’t added new destinations to its network since 2021, said St. Thomas will be the first of three new additions expected to be announced this summer. Once launched, St. Thomas will become the ninth island destination served by the carrier in the Atlantic region, joining Aruba, The Bahamas, Cayman Islands, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, and Turks and Caicos.
In the announcement, Southwest CEO Bob Jordan said the move reflects the airline’s commitment to expanding options for its customers. “We are listening closely to what our customers want — from new products and loyalty benefits to new destinations,” Jordan said. “We want to make Southwest Airlines the easy and obvious choice every time, and this is another meaningful step in our ongoing transformation.”
Service to St. Thomas is expected to begin in early 2026, pending government approvals, and Southwest officials said tickets will be available for purchase soon.

July 14, 2025

Local News

Shared Stories of Life With Avelino Samuel at Weekend Memorial

On a Saturday in Friis Bay, St. John, friends and family lingered over memories of their life with Avelino Samuel. Hundreds of people gathered at Miss Lucy’s Restaurant to remember Samuel as patriarch, craftsman, educator, athlete and fisherman.
Samuel, 68, died June 7 after a lengthy illness. Those assembled in seats under a canopy with a platform set up for speakers faced a portrait of the deceased painted by his sister, Karen Samuel. There was no urn, no casket — nothing left to mourn.
Nephew Kurt Marsh Jr. invited anyone who wanted to share the stories of the time they spent with Avelino, also known as Bino.
There were many. All of them recalled a humble, unassuming man who set high standards for himself and all of those around him.
Evans Williams shared a lifetime of memories for a man he called his best friend. Michael Hodge spoke about the days they played volleyball together at school and in the St. Thomas Advanced Power League.
Coach Elridge Blake told a story about taking Samuel and his teammates from the then-College of the Virgin Islands to a regional competition where they returned home as medalists.
Like a proud parent, Blake added that all of those teammates went on past their college years to contribute to their community; doctors, coaches, military men, and artists.
Librarian Janet Burton and others spoke about the 30 years he spent teaching industrial arts at the Julius E. Sprauve School. She also recalled the days he sat quietly in her classroom. “Avelino was my student in the seventh- or eighth grade,” she said.
What caught her attention were the items he made in wood shop and brought back to the classroom; from that time, his teacher saw Samuel as someone who would grow up making “beautiful and practical things.”
Williams remembered the day he brought the spinning top he made in a shop to school and showed it to his friend. The next day, Bino showed up with the top he made.
“Yeah — he would mash up everybody’s top,” said another classmate seated in the audience, not without a hint of humor.
Those who remembered said that was the start of a lifetime of woodworking and woodturning. It was a skill that flowed into another lifetime passion — spearfishing. As time went by, the spearguns came mounted on polished native wood turned on the craftsman’s lathe.
One young relative said he gained a passion for spearfishing from an uncle who held demanding standards for catching, scaling and filleting the catch. Son Jonte Samuel told how he followed his dad into the undersea world. He remembered Bino’s reassuring presence even as five-foot sharks swam by; something that could cause some concern for Jonte, who was often swimming along carrying the fish they caught.
There were also those who found it fitting to share these stories outdoors on a sunny Saturday blessed with a cooling sea breeze, alongside the ocean Bino loved.
Gallery owners David and Priscilla Knight spoke with pride about having Samuel’s pieces featured in their St. John shop. Williams spoke about the dining room set his best friend made for him.
So did Tregenza Roach, now lieutenant governor, who asked for a dining room table, although he had just returned from law school with little to his name. Arrangements were made for payment and the table was delivered.
At the gallery, the artist would meet with collectors for his finely-turned, stained and polished pieces. Once, while pursuing the Smithsonian Museum website Priscilla said she admired a wood vessel with familiar features.
Then, she said, she looked at the artist’s name: Avelino Samuel, Coral Bay, St. John. Picking up the phone, Priscilla asked if he forgot to mention something.
“What?” he said.
If he had pieces that were being featured at the Smithsonian. He answered casually – Yes.
“And you didn’t tell anyone?” she asked.
“No,” he said.
The gallery owner said she urged him to travel to Washington, D.C., for the debut of his work at the nation’s renowned museum. With some persuasion, he agreed.
Upon returning home to St. John, she said Samuel thanked her for encouraging him to make the trip.
Perhaps his middle school teacher summed up the sentiment expressed by most at the Saturday memorial. “I saw in him humility; he was a regular person. Despite his fame, he was the same person you met in life — that was him,” Burton said.

July 13, 2025

Local News

Consider the Source With Adisha Penn

From Senate budget hearings to Governor Albert Bryan Jr.’s call for a special session on Aug. 1 – host Adisha Penn recaps the biggest headlines of the week while our in-studio team gets behind the scenes at citizen healthcare protests on St. Thomas and St. Croix. There’s always something new on Consider the Source!

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MGIIT-07148[/embedyt]

July 13, 2025

Local News

A Last-Minute Call, An Airline Saved: Inside Seaborne’s New Chapter

Darrell Richardson remembers exactly where he was when the call came. A friend — a retired airline executive — rang him up with a simple question: “Did you hear they’re selling Seaborne?”
He hadn’t. But within days, Richardson was on a flight to the Virgin Islands, pitching the opportunity to his most trusted investors. “I made one phone call,” he said in an interview with the Source Saturday. “Two days later, we bid.” And just like that, one of the region’s most iconic carriers — and the world’s only Part 121-certified seaplane operation — had a new owner.
For Richardson, now president and CEO of Seaborne Airlines, the challenge wasn’t new. He’s built a career out of turning around struggling carriers. After stepping in at Silver Airways following its 2010 bankruptcy, he rebranded the airline and led it into growth before retiring in 2013, long before its more recent financial collapse. “This is what I do,” he said simply.
This time, he wasn’t working alone. Behind the swift acquisition was the Leonite Fund, a New Jersey-based investment firm with a reputation for supporting small businesses poised for growth. Richardson had worked with them before, describing the relationship as one built on trust. “They’re probably my favorite investors when it comes to putting these types of packages together,” he said, adding that after calling to pitch the deal, they said yes immediately. “Two days later, we had the bid in.”
That confidence was echoed publicly. In the official sale announcement, Leonite Fund’s Chief Investment Officer, Avi Geller, praised Richardson’s ability to bring “tighter operations, reinvigorated team culture, and sustainable profitability.” With Richardson’s leadership and Leonite’s financial backing, Seaborne suddenly had what it hadn’t had in years: a clear path forward.
That path started immediately. Just days after the deal closed, Richardson was in the territory, riding the seaplane for the first time. “It was fantastic,” he said, still sounding awed by the experience. From airport gate agents to hotel staff, everyone he met had their own Seaborne story. “Everyone’s flown on that plane,” he said. “It’s part of the community.”
That sense of connection is exactly what he hopes to protect and grow. While the history and nostalgia tied to the airline are undeniable, Richardson knows sentiment alone won’t secure Seaborne’s future. Practical steps are already underway.
“There’s no break in service,” Richardson stressed. Flights will continue as scheduled, with the same familiar faces in the cockpit and on the ramp. But behind the scenes, change is already in motion: a full review of the fleet, pay raises tied to company growth, and a customer service training overhaul designed to restore the warm, welcoming experience Seaborne was once known for. “We need to get back to being the airline people are proud to fly,” he said.
At the core of Richardson’s strategy is Seaborne’s greatest asset: its coveted Part 121 certification. The rigorous federal standard required of major carriers like Delta and American sets Seaborne apart as the only seaplane operation in the world held to that level. “That means two engines, two pilots, and all the safety checks of the big airlines,” Richardson explained. “And that matters.”
For now, Seaborne’s twin-engine De Havilland Otters will continue flying between St. Thomas and St. Croix. But Richardson sees more on the horizon. He envisions expanding the fleet to four or five aircraft and restoring service to destinations across the Caribbean, including Vieques.
What makes the work personal is the people. His message to staff was clear from day one: “As we grow, you grow.” He knows the strain employees have carried through Seaborne’s years of uncertainty. Now, with Leonite’s support and a leadership team focused on long-term sustainability, Richardson is promising stability, opportunity, and a future. “We want to be part of this community. This isn’t just another airline to me.”
It’s a lesson Richardson learned at Silver Airways, where he guided the company from bankruptcy to industry awards before stepping away. “I know what it takes to rebuild,” he said. “And I’m not going to let Seaborne end up in financial trouble again.”
There’s a new slogan in the works: “Wings Over the Caribbean.” But for Richardson, it’s not just a tagline, but a commitment to safety, to service, and to the islands Seaborne calls home. And, the priority is simple: keep the planes flying, keep the service reliable, and rebuild trust, he said.
“We’re going to build something this community can be proud of again,” he said.

July 13, 2025

Local News

St. John Youngsters Invited to Bicycle Rodeos on July 26

The St. John Police Department and the Community Integration Team are presenting a Bicycle Safety Rodeo for youngsters on Saturday, July 26.

Parents and children are invited to learn about bicycle safety while participating in fun activities during two sessions. The morning session will be held at 10 a.m. at Calabash Boom and the afternoon session will be held at 2 p.m. at Bellevue Village. Prizes will be awarded.

Participants are kindly asked to RSVP by July 23 to Capt. Sandra Colbourne at 340-244-6539.

July 13, 2025

Local News

Sen. Carla Joseph Urges Gathering VI Rum Industry Stakeholders

In an effort to organize a meeting with all stakeholders in the VI Rum Industry, Senator Carla Joseph has written to Senator Hubert L Frederik, the Chair of the Legislature’s Committee on Economic Development and Agriculture.

Senator Joseph stated that the Committee on Economic Development and Agriculture must convene all key stakeholders to discuss the status of rum production, sales, and marketing in the US Virgin Islands in light of President Donald Trump’s signing into law the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. This Act includes a permanent extension of the rum cover over tax at the higher rate of $13.25 per proof gallon.

In her letter to Senator Hubert L. Frederik, Senator Carla Joseph recommended that all stakeholders be convened to discuss the status, any challenges, and potential opportunities to optimally position the Virgin Islands for a significant return on investment for the industry and the people of the Territory. This is a substantial development, and it is essential that the Territory’s Rum Industry is in optimal condition to capitalize on this opportunity.

Senator Carla Joseph strongly encourages the committee to arrange a hearing with representatives from the Virgin Islands Rum Industry, Distributors of VI Rum Products, the VI Department of Tourism, the VI Port Authority, and the Office of the Governor in advance of the implementation of the higher rum cover over tax rate, which is set to take effect after December 31, 2025.

Senator Carla Joseph stated, “Given the competition for revenues in the Rum Industry and the evolving global markets, let us be proactive in establishing the Territory for success.”

In response to Senator Carla Joseph’s letter, Senator Hubert Frederick thanked Senator Joseph for her advocacy for the economic well-being of the Virgin Islands. Senator Frederck indicated that he has initiated contact with key stakeholders in the rum industry, to begin discussion prior to extending formal invitations for a legislative hearing on the matter.

In his letter to Senator Carla Joseph, Senator Frederick said, “Rest assured that the Committee on Economic Development and Agriculture remains fully committed to advancing this important discussion.

I share your sense of urgency in ensuring that the Virgin Islands is strategically positioned to maximize the benefits of the permanent extension of the rum cover-over tax rate. “Senator Carla Joseph commends the Bryan Roach administration’s success and efforts in advocating for the permanent extension, which were facilitated by U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo, R-Idaho, who advocated for the inclusion of federal rum excise taxes to generate additional revenue for the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. She also extends gratitude to Delegate Stacey Plaskett of the U.S. House of Representatives and Rep. Ron Estes, R-Kan, for their contributions

July 13, 2025

Local News

John Peter Dies

The family of the late John Peter is saddened to announce his passing on June 26, 2025.

He is survived by his Wife: Jasmine Zachariah, Daughters: Karen Napoleon, Stepdaughter: Rita Concepcion, Grandchildren: Jeremiah, Kendrick, Jordani and Melinda, Brothers: Maxine Peter, John Peter, Nieces: Sherian Peter, Helen Peter, Carry Peter, Tete Girl Peter, Nephew: Percie Peter.
Many relatives and friends are too numerous to mention.
Funeral Service is scheduled to be held on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at Divine Chapel, #129 Peter’s Rest, St. Croix. The viewing begins at 10 a.m., service at 11 a.m.
Interment follows to the Kingshill Cemetery Earth Burial Section.

July 13, 2025

Local News

Ophelia Griffin Dennis Dies at 88

It is with deep love and heartfelt sorrow that we announce the passing of Ophelia Griffin Dennis, who departed this life peacefully on July 8, 2025, just 11 days shy of her 89th birthday.

A longtime resident of the U.S. Virgin Islands, Ophelia was known for her quiet strength, deep compassion, and unwavering devotion to her family and community. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend whose nurturing spirit touched countless lives.

She is survived by her sons Tony Dennis, Hugh Dennis (affectionately known as Punky), and daughter Janice Dennis-Freeman; son-in-law Derek Freeman and daughter-in-law Selina Fahie; her grandchildren Kory Davis, Krystal Dennis-Downs, Kelly Davis-Diaz, Mariah Dennis, and Jordan Dennis; grandsons-in-law Justin Diaz and Delaney Downs; great-grandchildren Asia, Amir, and Asher Diaz; surrogate children Lynn Cooper, Anthony “Obuso” Rose, and Yvette “Sugar” Cagan; surrogate grandchildren Latoya Baxter and Jamelia Blyden; special friends Audrey Callwood and Ione Yearwood; and godson Derek Gabriel. She will be remembered with love, and deeply missed by all who were blessed to know her.

A viewing and tributes will be held on Thursday, July 31, from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., followed by the funeral service 10 a.m. at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church. Interment Eastern Cemetery, Funeral arrangements are by Turnbull’s Funeral Home and Crematory Services.

July 13, 2025

Local News

Dispute Between VIPD and Police Union to be Heard at August Trial

A dispute between the government and the union representing law enforcement personnel in the St. Thomas-St. John District is the subject of an upcoming trial in Superior Court. Superior Court Judge Sigrid Tejo agreed to preside over a civil bench trial in August to hear details of an alleged illegal strike in June by members of the Police Benevolent Association Local 816.
Attorney General Gordon Rhea filed a complaint against the union on June 17 on behalf of Police Commissioner Mario Brooks. In court filings, Justice officials pointed to a period between June 15 and June 16 when more than 30 officers and school crossing guards called in sick from precincts across the district.
Rhea claimed the absences were coordinated among the participants and were “authorized, approved, and sanctioned” by Local 816 president Joel Browne Connors. “The failure of a large percentage of police officers to report for his/her assigned shift constitutes a reasonable basis for a court to conclude that the employees are engaging in concerted activity to voice displeasure with some aspect of their working conditions,” the attorney general said.
Justice officials sought and won a temporary restraining order on June 19 and were seeking a permanent injunction. Brooks and the government were also asking the union for reimbursement of administrative costs and court fees.
Tejo scheduled a hearing for July 9. A status conference was held July 8 by way of live stream videoconference. The Office of Collective Bargaining Chief Negotiator, Joss Springette, joined Tuesday’s status conference. The government told Tejo its witnesses would not be able to appear the following day.
Wednesday’s hearing was postponed, but by day’s end, the judge agreed to hear arguments from both sides at a bench trial scheduled for Aug. 11 at 9 a.m. Tejo gave all parties until Aug. 1 to notify the court if they could not appear that day.
The judge also noted that the TRO issued June 19 remains in effect.

July 12, 2025