V.I. Legislature Celebrates 16 Distinguished Individuals and Organizations

The V.I. Legislature hosted a Perma Plaque Ceremony at the Frits E. Lawaetz Conference Room in St. Croix this Monday, recognizing 16 Virgin Islanders and local organizations for their exceptional contributions to the community. These individuals and groups had undergone thorough vetting by the relevant legislative committees, with some accolades tracing back to as early as the 30th Legislature.

Senate President Novelle Francis Jr. emphasized the significance of the ceremony, stating, “Today’s event highlights the invaluable contributions of our honorees in knitting the social fabric of our community through their tradition of service.”

Among those honored were a diverse group of public servants, educators, veterans, scientists, entertainers, and sports figures. Senator Francis remarked on the defining service and commitment of the awardees.

In a special acknowledgment, former delegate to Congress Donna Marie Christian-Christensen was awarded the Virgin Islands Medal of Honor, which was also posthumously presented to Edgar Milton Isles, a late senator. Dr. Christian-Christensen expressed her gratitude, reflecting on her upbringing in St. Croix and her desire to give back to her territory. Further honors are anticipated for her, with plans to rename the Charles Howard Hospital to the Donna Marie Christensen M.D. Department of Health after its reconstruction.

Senator Franklin Johnson praised Edgar Milton Isles for his dedication to community service. The ceremony also spotlighted sports enthusiasts such as Alvin “Baby” Delano Burke Sr. and Eugene “Genix” Thomas, a revered baseball and softball coach, whose contributions were celebrated by former Senator Kurt Vialet and others.

Additionally, Michelle Mychah Leone Smith was recognized for her exceptional achievements in track and field, hinting at a potential Olympic future. Celebrations extended to the Music in Motion School of Higher Dance Education and the St. Croix Majorettes for their decades of dedication to the arts and community service.

Other honorees included the Virgin Islands National Guard, Command Sergeant Major Charles David (Ret.), and William Bohlke Jr., recognized for his role in bringing NOAA Hurricane Hunters to the territory. Kemit Amon-Lewis was celebrated for his marine science contributions, particularly to coral reef preservation.

The ceremony also acknowledged educational and advocacy efforts with honors given to Gloria H. Canegeta Waterman and Roselin Maud McFarlane, an advocate for independent living for people with disabilities. Joseph Olmeda was celebrated for his long-standing service to the community.

The event concluded with special recognition of the Virgin Island Agriculture and Food Fair Board of Directors, the University of the Virgin Islands, and the Department of Agriculture for their 50 years of dedicated service in coordinating Agri-Fest.

Reflecting on the ceremony, former Senator Vialet underscored the importance of these honors in documenting the rich history of the Virgin Islands, hinting at future accolades, including street and building renamings and even the commissioning of busts to further honor notable Virgin Islanders.