The Virgin Islands Bureau of Corrections, in partnership with the University of the Virgin Islands Center for Excellence in Leadership and Learning, held a powerful graduation ceremony on Friday at the John A. Bell Correctional Facility Chapel on St. Croix.
It was a morning filled with promise and pride. The day was described as one of transformation, perseverance, and purpose.
“Today, we honor the individuals who have committed themselves to learning, growth, and change. Through challenges and setbacks, they’ve shown determination, resilience, and the power of a second chance,” said the facility’s case management team.

Among the honorees was Sholome Frances Bey, who also served as a featured speaker. Bey is the lead instructor for the Promising People Electrical Helper program, a role that extends beyond the classroom as he dedicates himself to mentoring fellow inmates. In addition to teaching, he works in the facility’s mechanic shop, specializing in body work and continuing to build on his technical skills.
In his introduction, Bey was described as “a role model to many.”

“His unwavering ambition and integrity serve as a powerful reminder that environment does not define identity. He is the perfect example of how determination and purpose can rewrite a story,” the speaker continued.
Graduates were awarded high school diplomas and certifications in electrical work, job readiness, and other vocational areas.

The graduating class included:
Tyler Smith, Layfaette Artis, Vaughn Challenger, Sholome Frances Bey, Oral Smith, Charles Frazer, Rasokemo Archibald, Amari Krigger, Christian Nieves, Bernard James, Delicia Daniel, Calvin Parker, Ralph Titre, Curtis Williams, DeAndre George, Daliqua Moses, Troy Massoth, Viviane Stuart, Abijah Isaac, Carlos Ayala, Jiovoni Smith, Manuel Davis, and Jamarie Grigg.

This event served not only as a celebration of academic and vocational achievement but also as a testament to the transformative power of education and opportunity, no matter the circumstance.

A small band of sign-waving, flag-bearing protestors made their presence known along Veterans Drive on Saturday. Together, they formed the St. Thomas No Kings March. In cities and towns across the U.S., thousands of protestors took to the streets to criticize the policies of President Donald Trump and his administration.

It was a day with many meanings; Saturday, June 14 is also known as Flag Day – the day the Stars and Stripes was adopted as the official symbol of the United States of America in 1777;
It was also President Trump’s 79th birthday – the day he set aside to stage a military parade in Washington, D.C. to mark the 250th birthday of the U.S. Army.

Saturday was also set aside for the annual King of the Wing competition at Magens Bay. Longtime resident Rebecca Luscz reflected on the day, saying she was born in Findlay, Ohio, which took on the moniker of Flag City, USA in 1974. “They’re probably having a march today,” Luscz said.
The march itself was brief, starting at the Edwin Blyden Marine Terminal and ending at the Ron deLugo Federal Building with stops at the Legislature and across the road from Farrelly Justice Complex. There, the crowd of roughly 25 people stopped to chant “We, the people – for the people – by the people – eh!”

Hotelier Richard Doumeng was among the sign bearers. When asked why he felt compelled to take a walk on a Saturday morning, he said, “This is what we can do, and if you’re going to complain, then you need to participate whether it’s locally or nationally.”
Other marchers displayed a little off-color humor to show they could stroll and troll at the same time.

And as they headed for the last stop on the Saturday march, Amy Gurlea led the way with one local and one national flag waving in the breeze. She called herself a proud American, willing to stand up for the people those flags represent.
“I will stand for the people of the United States, but I will not stand for this president,” Gurlea said.
Other marchers added they were not against all kings — calypso kings and chicken wing kings were gladly acknowledged.