On Wednesday, First Lady Cecile de Jongh commended the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands and partners on the release of the new Kids Count 2011 Data Book. CFVI president Dee Baecher-Brown was joined by Kids Count co-directors Judith Richardson and Kim Holdsworth, as well as Family Connection director Ellie Hirsh at a press conference held today at the Sugar Estate Head Start Conference Room on St. Thomas. First Lady de Jongh attended the event.
First Lady Cecile de Jongh and Catholic Charities Executive Director Michael Aiken at the CFVI Kids Count release of the 2011 Data Book at the Sugar Estate Head Start Conference Room on St.
Thomas, January 25, 2012
“Every year, the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands, through its Kids Count project, reports on the health, safety, education and economic status of the Territory’s children, including those at-risk. The Data Book is an incredibly valuable resource that guides our work as a community in our collective efforts to raise the bar on children’s achievement and proficiency levels, as well as overall wellness. I congratulate CFVI on today’s release of data and commend their continued efforts on behalf of the Territory’s children and families,”
the first
lady said.
The 12th Annual Data Book promotes dialogue on children’s issues and community responses regarding children’s
well-being, for youth from birth to age eighteen. The book provides a “snapshot” of information gathered for over a decade by the Kids Count project, including statistics, trends and other information, up to 2009.
First Lady Cecile
de Jongh has been selected as one of
Destination Magazine’s “extraordinary
business women leaders” for 2012. This
year’s edition features an article by Virgin
Islands attorney Tom Bolt entitled, “Passing
the Torch,” paying tribute to six Virgin
Islands women in recognition of their
individual accomplishments, spirit of
entrepreneurship and business acumen.
Click
images to view full size
“It’s
wonderful to be honored by Destination
Magazine, along with the five other Virgin
Islands business women featured for the 2012
tribute. More than anything, this honor comes
with the recognition that while success and
achievement are the products of hard work and
perseverance, business leaders also have a
responsibility as role models to open doors
for others and create pathways of opportunity
for future generations. In so doing, we build
a foundation that Virgin Islanders, especially
women, can springboard from and help shape
their future course,” the first lady said.
The article
commends the leadership of the following
Virgin Islands women: Elizabeth Armstrong,
General Manager, Buccaneer Hotel on St. Croix;
Sharmila Mohannani, St. Thomas’ Chalet
D’Or jewelry boutique; Wendy Tarapani,
Diamond International on St. Thomas; Nicole
Boswell-Horstmeyer, Owner and CEO Blue Shore
Grill Restaurant Group; Trudie Prior, General
Manager Coral World on St. John; and First
Lady Cecile de Jongh, who in addition to her
responsibilities as First Lady of the U.S.
Virgin Islands, is Manager of Financial Trust
Company, based on St. Thomas.
First Lady Cecile de Jongh was pleased to join the Junior Philanthropists of St. Thomas, a subgroup of the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands, in congratulating all participants of the Youth 4 Youth Junior Tennis Tournament, played over Martin Luther King weekend at the St. Thomas Yacht Club courts. The tournament was sanctioned by the Virgin Islands Tennis Association.
First Lady Cecile de Jongh participates in the awards ceremony for the Boys and Girls 8 and under categories at the Youth 4 Youth Junior Tennis Tournament over MLK weekend at the St. Thomas Yacht Club courts,
January 15, 2012.
“Organized by youth to benefit youth, this charitable event brought students from St. Croix, St. Thomas and St. John to join in sports competition, while also raising money towards educational projects for youth, a truly inspiring initiative,”
the first lady said.
On Wednesday, First Lady Cecile de Jongh participated in the filming of the “Healthy Pregnancies, Healthy Babies” television commercial, in cooperation with the Division of Personnel and TV-2 at the Charlotte Kimelman Cancer Center on St. Thomas. The public service announcement is part of a greater wellness initiative of the Government of the Virgin Islands, along with CIGNA, and seeks to raise awareness on the resources available to families welcoming a new baby into their home.
Dr. Tonia Herman (seated), Dr. Catherine Kean (seated), Nurse Carvelle Rogers (standing), First Lady Cecile de Jongh and Nurse Donna Julien at Wednesday's filming of the Healthy Pregnancies, Healthy Babies television commercial at the Charlotte Kimelman Cancer Center on St.
Thomas, January 11, 2012.
“This initiative seeks to remind new and expecting mothers, as well as their families, about the importance of maintaining good overall health during pregnancy and throughout one’s life. With this program, the collective goal, and our hope, is to help improve healthy child outcomes overall. Quality prenatal care and community involvement is key,”
the first lady said.
Wednesday’s filming was the last in a series of segments towards completing the final, 60-second public service announcement, which will soon air on television stations 2 and 8, as well as on the Government Access Channels 6 and 10.
The first lady is Chairperson of the Children and Families Council which seeks to recommend changes to improve the delivery of services in the Territory and to develop a strategy to empower families through economic opportunity and overall wellness.
First Lady Cecile de Jongh participated in the 16th Annual Christmas Tree lighting of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Virgin Islands Veterans Memorial Park on Sunday, December 11, 2011. As part of the festivities, the first lady opened the ceremony by turning on the switch for the lights in the park, marking the official opening of the Christmas season.
First Lady Cecile de Jongh delivers remarks at the 16th Annual Christmas Tree lighting ceremony at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Virgin Islands Memorial Park on St. Thomas,
December 11, 2011.
We From Upstreet Inc. (WEFUS) and Kidscope Inc. hosted the event with the theme, “A Wish for Our Children,” focusing on their year-round goals and objectives to continue to strive to provide educational, artistic and social programs for children.
First Lady Cecile de Jongh,
honoree Dilsa Capdeville, and We From Upstreet President
Myron D. Jackson on stage at the 16th Annual Christmas Tree
lighting ceremony, December 11, 2011.
The first
lady presented this year’s honoree, Dilsa Capdeville, director Kidscope Inc., with tokens of appreciation in recognition of her 40+ years of dedication and commitment to providing social services, vocational counseling and case advocacy to victims of crimes and domestic violence.
First Lady Cecile de Jongh was pleased to host two legendary women’s tennis champions on Monday evening at a reception held in their honor at Government House.
From left to right) Tennis legend Zina Garrison, First Lady Cecile de
Jongh, motivational speaker Kim Davis, tennis champion Lori McNeil and VI tennis professional George Lewis at Government House on
December 12, 2011.
Former World Tennis Association (WTA) legends Zina Garrison and Lori McNeil visited with the first lady and tennis enthusiasts in advance of leading a week-long tennis clinic on St. Thomas.
The first lady expressed her delight in welcoming Garrison and McNeil to the Territory and applauded their outstanding individual and collective efforts on and off the court, notably for young athletes.
She also discussed efforts via her Tennis in the Parks and Schools (TIPS) initiative to expand access to the sport throughout the Virgin Islands, especially amongst youth.
Earlier today, First Lady Cecile de Jongh praised members of the Junior Philanthropists of St. Thomas, a subgroup of the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands, who announced they will hold a youth tennis tournament for their peers in January 2012 as part of an effort to attract funding for educational projects in the schools.
First Lady Cecile de Jongh is joined by Junior Philanthopists Nicholas Midler,
B.J. Lynch and tennis enthusiast Monica Midler at the St. Thomas Yacht Club courts,
December 6, 2011.
The first-ever Youth 4 Youth Junior Tennis Tournament for youngsters between the ages of 10 and 18 will take place between January 14-16, during the Martin Luther King holiday weekend, at the St. Thomas Yacht Club. The tournament is sanctioned by the Virgin Islands Tennis Association.
“The students who took the initiative to organize this tournament have come up with an incredibly creative way to give back to the community by turning ideas into action,” the first lady said.
The first lady has championed the Tennis in the Parks and Schools (TIPS) initiative to promote youth tennis through school and park programs throughout the Virgin Islands. Expressing her delight at the entrepreneurial spirit of the Junior Philanthropists, she also noted, “The largely youth-driven event is a wonderful example of sports competition with a community benefit in mind. The efforts of these students is both inspiring and deserving of our
praise."
She continued, “Tennis, like all sports, increases self-confidence, challenges one to reach his or her goals, and is a natural conduit for positive programs that benefit society at large. Through the Tennis in the Parks and Schools initiative and events like this one, we are expanding opportunities for youth tennis in the Territory and reminding residents of recreational outlets available for youth. When you consider that funds raised towards this event will be then put back into the community’s schools for youth projects, it’s a win-win for all.”
On Wednesday, First Lady Cecile de Jongh convened the Children and Families Council at Government House, the fourth such quarterly meeting of 2011.
First Lady Cecile de Jongh and Children and Families Council members
meet at Government House, St. Thomas on November 30, 2011.
As chairperson of the
council, the first lady led a fruitful discussion exploring creative options in addressing the ongoing challenges associated with the economic downturn and as a result of the impact of the 2011 retirement incentive plan.
“As an advisory committee of public, private, non-profit and faith-based partners, we are mindful of the economic impact of the recession on budgets and the associated strain on providing services. Recognizing the benefits in leveraging partnerships and maximizing resources, it is incumbent on us as a government, and also as a community, to bridge the gaps by bringing parties together to collaborate on common goals, streamlining services and creating new opportunities for progress,”
she said.
During the meeting,
council members discussed programs designed to empower the
territory’s families through mentorship, special trainings, professional development, and educational enrichment.
Amidst the holiday season celebrations, on Monday
the governor and first lady announced the schedule of events for the 2011 Children’s Holiday Parties in both districts.
“Cecile and I are delighted to once again host the Annual Children’s Holiday
Parties. We look forward to celebrating the joy of the season with all residents of the
Territory whether it's for Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa
or other holidays,” Governor de Jongh said.
As part of the holiday festivities planned on St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John, educational gifts, including the newly published book, The Lesson Box, by local author Tregenza Roach will be distributed to children in grades K-3.
“Every year, we work with a local author to publish a children’s book to distribute at the end-of-year holiday season events. This year’s book is a wonderful story of family, friendship and community that is sure to delight children and families. The Governor and I look forward to sharing this enjoyable book with the children of the Virgin Islands,” First Lady de Jongh said.
The schedule for the 2011 Children’s Holiday Parties includes:
St. Croix: December 10 at Government House, Christiansted from 1:30-4:00 PM
St. Thomas: December 17 at Emancipation Garden, from 3:00-5:00 PM
St. John: December 19 at the Battery, from 5:30-6:30 PM
Children and families throughout the Virgin Islands are invited to celebrate the holiday season with Governor and First Lady de Jongh, along with Santa Claus and his merry elves. Light refreshments will be served.
The governor and first lady will also host the 5th Annual Christmas Fair on St. Croix at Government House, Christiansted, at Queens Cross Street and Government House courtyard, on December 10 from 11:00-5:00 PM. Arts and crafts vendors, as well as various food stands, will be in place.
The governor
and first lady have pledged to join the first family of Maryland in a nationwide effort to stop school bullying.
In a letter sent last week to their colleagues in state government, Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley and First Lady Katie O'Malley asked the de Jonghs to join them in committing to the
“Stop Bullying, Speak
Up” pledge. The pledge is a promise to keep alive the message that bullying is wrong, and adults need to speak up to prevent such behavior.
The O'Malley's initiative seeks to make one major point: bullying is not inevitable. Almost 100,000 Americans have already taken the pledge, as part of the national effort to stop abuse in schools.
“As governor of the Virgin Islands, I am deeply concerned about this issue confronting far too many of our students. Like Governor O'Malley, I promise to do everything I can, and speak up, to stop bullying and other abuse,” Governor de Jongh said.
The cause is one close to the heart of
First Lady Cecile de Jongh, who has been a steadfast champion of anti-bullying measures in the Territory's schools. Through her work as chairperson of the governor’s Children and Families Council, and in cooperation with the Department of Education, Clemson University and other public and private sector partners, the first lady has often publicly discussed the serious challenges associated with peer-to-peer bullying, as well as the antisocial climate it can foster in institutions of learning, and some of the steps needed to combat the problem.
On Saturday, First Lady Cecile de Jongh was a featured presenter at a Women’s Empowerment Summit in
Tortola, British Virgin Islands. The event was organized by entrepreneur and publisher Portia
Harrigan, a native of the Bahamas and resident of the
BVI.
First Lady Cecile de Jongh takes a question from the audience with women's rights attorney Tana'ania Small-Davis at the Women's Empowerment Summit in
Tortola, British Virgin Islands,
November 19, 2011.
Women from throughout the Caribbean participated in the summit, focusing on women’s leadership and empowerment in the global community. Various panel discussions provided insight and guidance on topics such as inspiring personal success in the workplace and in family life; navigating the current economic climate; unlocking the keys to financial freedom; Caribbean integration and the importance of community stewardship in moving the region forward; and bringing value to the lives of others.
“Over time, the role of women in society has evolved, and it continues to evolve as the global community addresses issues of advancing technologies, women’s equality in the workplace, fundamental shifts in international and local economies, individual financial security and family life. In an era of economic crisis, in particular, it is important to provide not only mentorship to one another, but also opportunities for our collective progress,”
the first lady said.
Earlier today, First Lady Cecile de Jongh launched a Territory-wide public awareness campaign encouraging residents to donate nonperishable food items to the hungry and homeless.
She partnered with Catholic Charities in response to 2011 data indicating increased service levels at the organization’s soup kitchens and shelters.
“Last year, Catholic Charities served more than 49,000 meals to the hungry and provided over 14,000 nights of shelter to the homeless. Incredibly, this year we have already surpassed these numbers. At a time when families are celebrating the holiday season together, this initiative reminds all of us to donate what we can in support of those in need,”
she said.
Residents are asked to take action and donate specific food stuffs during a Territory-wide Food Drive on November 5th and 6th. All donated items will be collected by Catholic Charities for use in the organization’s soup kitchens and shelters on St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John. The organization has an urgent need for canned tuna, salmon, corned beef, and Vienna sausages. They also request new underwear for men, women and children.
The first lady encourages residents to show compassion and understanding this holiday season and throughout the year for the more than 400 homeless and countless hungry throughout the Territory.
As part of the initiative, a public service announcement will run on radio and television stations this week informing the community of the November 5th and 6th food drive.
Alongside the administration’s anti-poverty efforts via the Children and Families Council, as chaired by the first lady, the hunger and homelessness initiative seeks to remind all Virgin Islanders that “Charity begins at home.”
Donated items can be forwarded to any of the Catholic Charities locations on St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John. All major grocery stores will also accept items during the November 5th and 6th food drive.
Later this month, Governor de
Jongh will issue a proclamation to encourage support for the Territory’s hungry and homeless assistance service providers, as well as community service opportunities for students and school organizations in support of these populations.
For more information, contact Catholic Charities at 777-8515.
On Friday, First Lady Cecile de Jongh participated in the First Annual Children’s Health and Wellness Fair at the UVI Great Hall in St. Croix. Public and private sector partners offered free medical, dental and other education and care services for young children.
“Recognizing that children’s health and education is a first priority for families, we are delighted to bring these resources to the community for free,”
she said.
A project of the Early Childhood Advisory Committee of the Governor’s Children and Families Council, the fair targeted children from ages birth to 5 years, in support of their healthy development. The event ran from 9:00-1:00 PM and will be held annually in both districts.
Earlier today, First Lady Cecile de Jongh launched the Tiny Tokens of Hope initiative to provide care packages, including personal hygiene items, to the Territory’s homeless population. The effort kicked off in St. John at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church and was launched on World Homeless Day and VI Homeless Day, as
proclaimed by Governor de
Jongh.
First Lady Cecile de Jongh distributes food and toiletries at the launch of the Tiny Tokens of Hope initiative in St. John,
October 10, 2011.
Departments and agencies of the Virgin Islands Government were encouraged to participate by collecting unused toiletries from travel and hotel stays, and dropping them off at any Government House location in St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John.
“In our work with groups and organizations that provide services to the homeless, while food, clothing and other items are regularly donated, we found that a missing piece was in providing toiletry items to assist their personal hygiene. Based on the success of the program thus far, I am pleased to invite the wider community to participate, providing support not only to our homeless population, but also to the service organizations that assist them on a daily basis,”
the first lady said.
Noting the spirit of generosity and compassion that made possible the wide-scale donations, the first lady thanked the departments and agencies of the Government for their participation and encouraged individuals to continue to give. “The Tiny Tokens of Hope program is a small but effective way to directly assist our homeless population. Especially as the holiday season approaches, it’s a special way that we can all help make a difference,”
she said.
Participating departments and agencies include the Departments of Human Services, Labor, Planning and Natural Resources, Police, Property and Procurement, the Office of Collective Bargaining, VI National Guard, and American Legion Post and Unit 102 on St. Croix. In addition, some government employees purchased items for donation, including washcloths, combs, and other personal care items.
As part of the Territorial launch, toiletries will also be donated on Tuesday, October 11 to the homeless in St. Thomas, in partnership with the Family Resource Center, and at the Southgate Baptist Church Lighthouse Mission in St. Croix. Thanks to the generous contributions received, over three hundred care packages were created for distribution on VI Homeless Day.
The de Jongh/Francis administration works closely with numerous groups and organizations year-round to assist community members who have fallen on hard times, or struggle with mental illness or addiction. Project Homeless Connect events, for example, are observed every year to gather resources, including healthcare service providers, homeless advocates and volunteers, to provide a full array of medical and other services, to help manage the transition to stability and facilitate progress in the lives of our homeless population.
“As a community, it’s important that we take steps to let the homeless know that we care about their well-being and help them reconnect with society, to the benefit of all in the Territory,”
the first lady added.
The Tiny Tokens of Hope initiative will distribute toiletries to the Virgin Islands homeless population twice a year.
On Thursday, First Lady Cecile de Jongh participated in the national Read for the Record literacy campaign, joining approximately two million readers nationwide in showing support for early learning. Mrs. de Jongh read Llama Llama Red Pajama by Anna Dewdney to students at Lockhart Elementary School on St. Thomas.
“Every year the Territory participates in the Read for the Record initiative, linking classrooms and families throughout the nation in acknowledging the critical role of reading and early education in children’s healthy development. It was a pleasure spending time with the students today, and I congratulate all participants of this year’s effort,”
she said.
Mrs. Cheryl Francis, wife of Lieutenant Governor Gregory R. Francis, also visited with students on Thursday to read Llama Llama Red Pajama at Claude O. Marko Elementary School on St. Croix, and Tourism Assistant Commissioner Monique Sibilly Hodge read to students at Joseph Sibilly Elementary School on St. Thomas.
The de Jongh/Francis Administration believes strongly in pursuing public policies that encourage reading and literacy, including early education initiatives, as a means of developing personal and academic success in later years.
The first lady is chairperson of the governor’s Children and Families Council, an entity comprised of public, private, non-profit and faith-based members that is charged with recommending changes to improve the delivery of services and improving the welfare of the Territory’s children and
families.
On Wednesday, First Lady Cecile de Jongh applauded approximately 100 child care directors and staff at a VI Department of Human Services Appreciation Day ceremony on St. Thomas. The first-ever event was held at the Sugar Bay Beach Resort and was an opportunity to raise awareness on the importance of high quality child care services, especially early education and care, for all Virgin Islands children.
In recognition of the critical role that early care providers have on our children’s healthy development, Governor de
Jongh declared October 5, 2011 as “Virgin Islands Child Care Provider Appreciation Day.”
In her remarks at Wednesday’s event,
the first lady joined the chorus of praise and appreciation for child care providers, and lauded them as “unsung heroes.” She also noted the demonstrated qualifications in managing an early education and care facility. “The
governor and I truly appreciate what you do, every day, in support of children and families. We are delighted to honor you today and your commitment to our children’s future.”
First Lady Cecile de Jongh is pleased to announce the winners of the Tennis in the Parks and Schools (TIPS) raffle contest. The raffle drawing benefits the TIPS initiative, providing after-school tennis clinics throughout the Territory’s public parks and tennis coaching in the public elementary schools.
The first lady is a tennis enthusiast dedicated to raising awareness of the sport and providing incentives to increase tennis participation amongst Virgin Islands youth.
“Tennis is a great outlet for youth recreation, and the TIPS initiative assists children in building self-confidence, staying healthy, and enables them to learn a new sport with hands-on instruction and coaching. Our goal is to open doors of opportunity that will last a lifetime while providing sports competition that simply didn’t exist before. With the U.S. Open just around the corner in August, we felt this raffle contest would be a great incentive to raise money toward sending a few lucky Virgin Islanders to attend the tournament in New York while raising funds and awareness for tennis programs in the Territory. I congratulate the winners and thank the community for its support of this initiative, benefiting the children of the Virgin Islands,”
she stated.
The raffle winners were selected by random drawing on Friday at TV-2 on St. Thomas and include: Grand Prize winner Don Porter, Second Place winner Lubin Roberts, and Third Place winner Joyce Bailey.
The Grand Prize is a trip for three people to attend the U.S. Open to view the Men’s 1st Round/Women’s 2nd Round Evening Session Tennis matches on Wednesday, August 31, 2011 in New York. Hotel and airfare from the USVI is included.
Earlier today, First Lady Cecile de Jongh convened the Virgin Islands Children and Families Council at Government House, St. Thomas to review initiatives in progress to advance the welfare of the Territory’s families with young children. With the economy and budget reduction measures in focus, the first lady led an interactive dialogue on grant applications, trainings for youth, professional development, and inter-agency efforts focusing on stabilizing socio-economic conditions in the Virgin Islands. The Council devoted significant time to assessing the effects of the Fiscal Year 2012 Budget, especially regarding the delivery of services.
First Lady Cecile de Jongh chairs the Children and Families Council meeting at Government
House on St. Thomas, July 8, 2011. Council members from St. Croix join via video-teleconference.
Government members on the Council recounted critical areas that will be impacted due to austerity measures in place, while non-profit and faith-based representatives reported less impact, thanks to ongoing financial support from private donors. The meeting was held via video-teleconference as a cost savings measure as not all Council members were on St. Thomas.
“As we know, recessions lead to higher poverty rates as families struggle with making ends meet. With poverty issues already a major concern, the undeniable impact on the Territory’s children and families highlights the importance of Government partnering with non-profit, private and faith-based communities to help support needed services and fill the gaps where budget shortfalls may now exist,”
the first lady said.
Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands President Dee Baecher Brown praised partnership efforts and the generosity of donors in ensuring that programs continue to succeed. ”We are seeing an increase in the number of requests for assistance, and some of the economic difficulties are more entrenched than in previous years, such as issues that residents face in finding jobs, or with health and housing needs. We are doing what we can to address these challenges, and are incredibly grateful for the continued commitments from donors in stepping up to the plate to assist.”
On Tuesday and Wednesday, First Lady Cecile de Jongh attended a seminar, “Leadership in Our Communities” as part of the National Governors Association’s session in Omaha, Nebraska. The seminar was hosted by First Lady of Nebraska Sally Ganem and focused on providing dialogue and peer-to-peer contact on issues concerning the wellbeing of the nation’s children and families, especially regarding early childhood education and care.
First Lady Cecile de Jongh is joined by first lady of Nebraska Sally Ganem (far left) and first lady of Montana Nancy Schweitzer (far right) at the Educare early childhood center in Omaha, Nebraska as part of the National Governors Association
seminar, May 4, 2011.
The summit brought together governor’s spouses from the nation’s states and territories, as well as key stakeholders in the childcare, social and economic research fields to discuss policies that seek to provide better health, early education, and human services for all families. Discussion topics focused on local and state efforts to improve child outcomes, integrate public services across state systems and create a comprehensive state children’s policy agenda.
“In the Virgin Islands we remain focused on working toward placing all children in early childhood education and care programs, thereby maximizing their developmental health and overall wellness in later years. Through our work with the Children and Families Council, in particular, we continue emphasizing the correlation between proper early childhood care and one’s future success. The hope and goal is to prepare all Virgin Islands children to be healthy and ready for school,”
the first lady said.
The NGA seminar provided an important platform for governor’s spouses to dialogue on critical topics in child and family care, focusing on continuing to build a better future for all children.
First Lady Cecile de Jongh was pleased to attend a tea party fundraiser held recently at the home of hostess Ilyn Musser of Judith’s Fancy Estates on St. Croix. The “Spot of Tea” event was coordinated in support of the well-known publication, The Caribbean Writer, now in its 25th year of producing the compendium of literary works published annually by the University of the Virgin Islands. The literary journal was founded in 1986.
First Lady Cecile de Jongh recently attended a Tea Party Fundraiser for The Caribbean Writer on St. Croix. Pictured
with the first lady from left to right are Opal Palmer Adisa, Ph.D., Editor, The Caribbean Writer; Ilyn V. Musser, event hostess.
As the keynote speaker, First Lady de Jongh offered remarks that focused on the importance of literacy to one’s future success and noted the “enormous value” of reading and literature in providing entertainment, as well as learning lessons throughout one’s life. “When I was a child, my father recommended that I read the epic novel Gone with the Wind, an experience that solidified my appreciation for reading and learning from books. I am forever grateful to him for encouraging me to embrace the wonders of literature at a young age and for always highlighting its benefits.”
Earlier today, the
Governor de Jongh and the First Lady de Jongh, along with the Virgin Islands Department of Agriculture and the Garden Club of the Gladys A. Abraham Elementary School participated in a dedication ceremony to announce the opening of the First Lady’s Herb and Tea Garden at Government House, St. Thomas.
In observance of Earth Week, Governor John P. de Jongh, Jr. and First Lady Cecile de Jongh dedicate the first lady’s Herb and Tea Garden at Government House, St. Thomas on Wednesday. They are joined by (from left to right) VIDOA staff Troy King; Assistant Commissioner of Agriculture Luther Renee; Gladys A. Abraham Elementary School teacher Vincent Henley and students from its School Garden Club; and VIDOA staff Asinia Potter.
“Earth Week is an appropriate time to teach young people about the environment, and their role in protecting the beautiful land that surrounds us. It is also a time to present a bigger picture on an environmental consciousness, now more important than ever, that truly starts with education in our homes, playgrounds and communities. Through the countless efforts of individuals across the globe, this week we hope to continue to improve our little piece of the planet and help bring forward a greater good for all,” Governor de Jongh said.
In commemoration of Earth Week, specifically Earth Day as observed on April 22nd, students joined the governor, first lady and VI Department of Agriculture staff in planting various herbs and bush teas in newly prepared garden plots at Government House. The initiative seeks to raise awareness on the importance of individually contributing to green initiatives in support of a healthy planet and to inspire Virgin Islanders, especially youth, to garden at school or at home and to eat healthy meals and snacks every day.
On Tuesday, First Lady Cecile de Jongh convened the Virgin Islands Children and Families Council at Government House, St. Croix to discuss initiatives in progress to advance the welfare of the territory’s families with young children. As Chairperson of the Council, the first lady led an interactive discussion focusing on the territory’s efforts to reduce poverty by 50% by 2020 and other initiatives impacting socio-economic conditions in the Virgin Islands, including early childhood education; child health; detached youth; drop-out prevention; and family economic security efforts.
First Lady Cecile de Jongh convened the Children and Families Council at Government House, St. Croix on
April 19, 2011. To the immediate left of the first lady is Karl Knight, Policy Advisor to the Governor, and Housing, Parks and Recreation Commissioner St. Claire Williams.
“Poverty is one of the most debilitating influences on society. Through the efforts of the Council we seek to break the generational poverty cycle and encourage better economic outcomes for families. By making education a greater priority in people’s daily lives, especially early childhood education, and in working with families, the business community and other partners, we seek to engage families and provide meaningful supports to elevate their opportunities now and in future years,”
the first lady said.
On behalf of the Poverty to Prosperity Working Group, Karl Knight, Policy Advisor to the Governor, delivered a body of recommendations to reduce child poverty in the territory. Knight noted that in utilizing the 2010 census data as a benchmark and the 2020 census as a yardstick, interim performance measures should be reviewed to pinpoint improvements made and work in progress. Knight also discussed how to best ensure the effort’s sustainability over the next ten years.
On Sunday, First Lady Cecile de Jongh was pleased to host the Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Epsilon Zeta Chapter, for an afternoon Tea Party at Government House, St. Thomas. Seventeen debutantes and their little sisters and escorts were present for the special event.
Iota Phi Lambda Sorority “Gem of Excellence” Nyala Stagger thanks First Lady Cecile de Jongh on behalf of the debutantes, escorts, and little sisters for hosting a Tea Party at Government House in their
honor, March 13, 2011.
Iota Phi Lambda Sorority members are mentoring the young ladies, also known as the “Gems of Excellence” in a four-month program that concludes this month with an Academic Cotillion at the Reichhold Center on St. Thomas on March 27th.
The sorority’s motto is “Upward and Onward in Efficient Service” and each of the debutantes was asked to perform a community service project in cooperation with Iota Phi Lambda Sorority. The group was featured on the Face to Face television broadcast on Wednesday, March 16 to discuss their experiences in the program.
First Lady Cecile de Jongh poses with Iota Phi Lambda Sorority debutantes, or “Gems of Excellence” at Government House, St. Thomas
on March 13, 2011.
The first lady thanked Iota Phi Lambda Sorority President Elma Brathwaite-Curtis and Academic Cotillion Co-Chairs Debra Gottlieb and Sherilyn Hodge for their efforts in mentoring the students.
“Young people are our future, and I am delighted at the efforts of the Iota Phi Lambda Sorority in providing encouragement, guidance, and leadership training to the Gems of Excellence, who, in turn, are already mentoring their own little sisters on pathways of self-discovery and community engagement. I look forward to all that they will achieve collectively and individually and extend my best wishes to each student as the sorority continues preparing for its Academic Cotillion later this month,”
she said.
As it has done for the last 11 years, the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands today made public its 2011 snapshot of the well-being of children and families in the Virgin Islands.
The release of new data opens dialogue on steps in progress and steps needed to improve the health, safety and economic status of the territory's children and families.
At today's presentation, First Lady Cecile de Jongh, who chairs the Governor's Children and Families Council, said it is important to review the new report and assess progress being made on key initiatives which seek to curb and to eliminate socio-economic challenges facing Virgin Islands families.
On Friday evening, First Lady Cecile de Jongh was pleased to host the special event, “Dinner and a Cause” at Government House, St. Thomas. The dinner party was held in the
First Lady’s Garden and was organized to bring women together from throughout the Virgin Islands community to network, socialize, and raise money for Camp Shriver, a summer program for children ages 8-15 with intellectual and physical disabilities.
First Lady Cecile de Jongh delivers remarks at the “Dinner and a Cause” event in the
First Lady’s Garden at Government House, St. Thomas, March
11, 2011.
The group formed in 2006 to raise money and awareness for charitable organizations in the Territory; this is the 24th time that “Dinner and A Cause” was organized to raise funds for worthwhile initiatives. Through its fundraising efforts, the group has raised over $120,000 in support of operations at various non-profit entities, such as Bethlehem House, the Family Resource Center, My Brother’s Workshop, the Salvation Army, Clear Blue Sky and various other organizations.
On Friday, First Lady Cecile de Jongh read to four classes at the George Wiley Headstart 2
Center in Tutu Valley, St. Thomas. The first lady read the children’s books:
A Caribbean Journey from A to Y (Read and Discover What Happened to the Z) by Mario Picayo and
The Fisherman’s Horn by Phillis and David Gershator. Both books were published through the
first lady’s children’s Christmas book initiative and were distributed to thousands of children during previous holiday seasons.
Approximately 60 children participated in the story hour with the first lady on Friday and sang songs together.
“I always enjoy visiting children to read books that spark the imagination and create new dialogue and mutual appreciation for the world around us. Today, we spent some time together reading a few books that were specifically created with the children of the Virgin Islands in mind, and it was a pleasure to embrace the opportunity and celebrate the magic of learning and the benefits of reading,”
the first lady said.
The first lady is the Big Read spokesperson for the Virgin Islands and encourages parents, teachers, and community members to spend time reading with children as an important part of building toward their future academic success and personal enrichment.
The first lady was joined by teachers: Kishma Faulkner, Lavern Freeman, Shennice Joseph, Taschena King, Demetria Mayers, Melva Richardson, Joanne Turnbull, and Ywardia
Wesselhoft.
A copy of each book was donated by Mrs. de Jongh to the Headstart center.
On Wednesday, First Lady Cecile de Jongh participated in the “Story Hour at the Garden” series at the St. George Village Botanical Garden in St. Croix. The
first lady read the children’s story The Tree in the Ancient Forest by Carol Reed-Jones, a tale of the interdependence of nature and the harmony of the natural environment.
First Lady Cecile de Jongh participates in “Story Hour at the Garden” at the St. George Village Botanical Garden in St.
Croix, March 9, 2011.
Approximately 30 preschoolers and their parents joined the first lady, as well as other readers, under the shade of a kapok tree to listen to various poems and stories for the Story Hour series.
“It’s important for us as parents, teachers, and community members to encourage reading and to spend time with children engaging them in reading for enjoyment and personal enrichment. Today was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate young children in our community and highlight the magic of books and all that reading brings to children’s development and family life,”
the first lady said.
As an advocate for literacy,
the first lady encourages reading at all age levels, especially amongst youth, as part of a daily routine towards building for future success and personal fulfillment.
On Sunday, First Lady Cecile de Jongh was honored at the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) 100th anniversary celebration of International Women’s Day at the Wyndham Sugar Bay Hotel in St. Thomas. The first lady was recognized for her contributions to the Territory and was the honorary hostess for the event, “Women Creating a Safe World.”
“I’m delighted to join the YWCA in recognizing the contributions women make in every aspect of life: in the home, on the job, in their communities, and in the many roles we play as mothers, wives, sisters, daughters, citizens, and leaders. Today we join other nations in worldwide fellowship in salute to the female spirit and in tribute to the women and girls that came before us,”
the first lady said.
First Lady Cecile de Jongh is presented with an award by Donnalie
Edwards-Cabey, YWCA president, for outstanding contributions to the Territory at the 100th Anniversary Celebration of International Women’s Day in St. Thomas,
March 6, 2011.
During the event, YWCA members reflected on the strides women have made throughout history, locally and globally. The non-profit organization is planning to attend the 2011 World YWCA Council and International Women’s Summit in Zurich, Switzerland this summer, a “Journey to Affiliation,” which will bring approximately 1000 women from over 100 countries to share best practices toward achieving greater peace, justice, and freedom for all people.
Earlier today, First
Lady Cecile de Jongh addressed the spouses of the nation’s governors at the National Governor’s Association Winter Meeting at the U.S. Department of State in Washington, DC. As a member of the Spouses’ Leadership Committee (SLC), the first lady was invited to share her perspective on matters of protocol and diplomacy in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
First lady Cecile de Jongh addresses spouses of the nation's governors during a session at the U.S. Department of State on protocol and diplomacy at the National Governor's Association conference in Washington, DC on
February 28, 2011.
The special session included a discussion with Ambassador Capricia Penavic Marshall, Chief of Protocol of the U.S. Department of State. The mission of the Chief of Protocol is to advance the foreign policy of the President by creating an environment for successful diplomacy.
“I am delighted at the opportunity to lead this important session, alongside Ambassador Marshall, an individual whose wisdom comes from distinguished experience at the highest levels,”
the first lady said.
In her leadership role on the SLC, the
first lady provides a guiding voice in determining initiatives and advocacy programs to be addressed at the organization’s two annual conferences. Her input also guides future public education and community mobilization efforts undertaken by the Spouses’ Program in its efforts to raise awareness about critical social and public health concerns, including children and families issues locally and nationwide.
As part of the annual tribute for Women’s History Month, this March,
First Lady Cecile de Jongh is pleased to launch a month-long radio series honoring Virgin Islands women who have positively impacted the Territory’s social, economic, cultural and political environment.
“Each year, during this time, we pay tribute to Virgin Islands women from all backgrounds who have taken strides in making the Territory a better place for all. Throughout the month you will be hearing about the careers, families, and notable achievements of individuals who make us proud. I am pleased to kick off this month-long salute as we highlight our distinguished matriarchs and community leaders,” first lady said.
Governor John P. de Jongh, Jr. has proclaimed the month of March, 2011 as “Women’s History Month” in the Virgin Islands, a designation made each year to honor the many outstanding contributions of Virgin Islands women in the classrooms, boardrooms, courtrooms, political arenas, the military and in homes and communities.
First lady de Jongh celebrates the pioneers who have opened doors and empowered women to fulfill their highest hopes and dreams. “When we raise awareness on the rich history of noteworthy Virgin Islands women, not only do we provide valuable lessons on what we have already accomplished as a society, but we also set the bar for our next generation and provide important reminders about the course of history, the progress we have achieved, and the pathway before us.”
The first lady also commended the Commission on the Status of Women for its instrumental efforts in improving the positions of the Territory’s women in the areas of health, housing, justice, pay equity, family relations, legislation, employment, and political status.
Biographies of Virgin Islands women will be broadcast throughout the month on radio stations, including: WSTA (1340 AM), WIUJ (102.9 FM), and WGOD (97.9 FM) on St. Thomas and on WSTX (970 AM), Sunny 99.5 FM, and Da Vybe (107.9 FM) on St. Croix. Profiles will be aired during regularly scheduled newscasts on weekday mornings and evenings.
The governor and first lady urge all residents and community organizations to join them in observing Women’s History Month by honoring the accomplishments and legacy of Virgin Islands women.
On Sunday afternoon, First Lady Cecile de Jongh attended the 5th Annual Chrysler Cup Tennis Tournament at the St. Thomas Yacht Club. This year, a record 114 tennis players are competing from the U.S. Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, St. Kitts, several U.S. mainland states and Europe. The tournament runs from February 18-21.
First Lady Cecile de Jongh poses with ranked participants of the 5th Annual Chrysler Cup Tennis Tournament at the St. Thomas Yacht Club Courts on Sunday. Left to right: Taavo
Roos; Robert Jendelund; Oystein Steiro; Chris
Cloer; First Lady Cecile de Jongh; Maciek Sykut (#2 seed); Chris
Welte; Nick Monroe (#1 seed); and Chris Kwon.
Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) ranked competitors include the number one seed Nick Monroe of Frisco, Texas and second seed Maciek Sykut from Poland, as well as Robert Jendelund from Sweden, Taavo Roos from Estonia, Christian Welte and Chris Kwon.
Matches are being held courtside at the St. Thomas Yacht Club, Anchorage Condominiums and Wyndham Sugar Bay Resort & Spa, and are being officiated by USTA and International Tennis Federation head referee, Hector Figueroa, from Puerto Rico.
First Lady Cecile de Jongh, a life-long tennis enthusiast has been a supporter of the Chrysler Cup Tennis Tournament since its inception. “It’s a pleasure to welcome all participants and spectators to this premiere tennis event, a tournament that continues to draw an impressive level of sports competition from players throughout the world.”
Winners in the Open divisions receive a $2000 cash prize (split between the winners in the Doubles), and the runner-up pockets $1000. Winners in the B Division are awarded $600.
The 5th Annual Chrysler Cup Tennis Tournament is sponsored by the Chrysler Group, the St. Thomas Yacht Club, and the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism.
On Tuesday, First
Lady Cecile de Jongh launched the Text4baby
initiative in the waiting room of the Maternal and
Child Health offices (MCH) of the Department of
Health on St. Thomas. The effort was launched in
cooperation with the Community Foundation of the
Virgin Islands and the Family Connection, partners
of the Children and Families Council, chaired by
First Lady de Jongh. The initiative provides
pregnant women and new mothers with information via
text message to help them care for their health and
give their babies the best possible start in
life.
First
Lady Cecile de Jongh delivers remarks
at the launch of the Text4baby
initiative at the Maternal and Child
Health Offices on St. Thomas.
Women who sign up for
the free service by texting “BABY” to 511411, or
“BEBE” in Spanish, receive three free SMS text
messages per week, timed to their due date or
baby’s date of birth. The messages focus on a
variety of topics critical to maternal and child
health, including birth defects prevention,
immunization, nutrition, seasonal influenza, mental
health, oral health, and safe sleep. Text4baby
messages also connect women to prenatal and infant
care services and other resources.
“This cutting-edge
initiative seeks to remind new and expecting mothers
about what they need to do during pregnancy and
throughout a baby’s first year. As a free service
made possible through a public/private partnership
with the nation’s cell phone providers, Text4baby
is yet another avenue of the Children and Families
Council to help improve healthy child outcomes.
Through this initiative and as part of a greater
community-based public awareness effort on health
and wellness, it is our hope to improve prenatal
care for mothers, and help curtail infant mortality
throughout the Territory,” First Lady de Jongh
said.
The Virgin Islands Children and Families Council, as chaired by First Lady Cecile de Jongh, met
today to continue its work advancing Governor de Jongh’s agenda to improve the welfare of the Territory’s children and families. The meeting provided a key platform for discussion on various initiatives of the Council, including youth gang violence prevention; anti-bullying programs; drop-out prevention; early childhood education; child health; family economic security; ADA vocational summer programs; and poverty reduction.
First Lady Cecile de Jongh speaks with members of the Children and Families Council at Government House, St. Thomas
on February 3, 2011
“The societal costs of failing to invest in young children and provide needed support services are far too great to simply maintain the status quo. Our efforts through the Children and Families Council, in line with the Governor’s vision to improve the delivery of services, is keenly focused on continuing to raise standards, heighten awareness, and implement cost-effective, data-driven policies as preventative measures to eliminate negative outcomes, such as crime, school failure, health problems, and poverty. Through these efforts, we will not avert every social ill, but will take strides in effectuating net benefits to society by decreasing the frequency and severity of these socio-economic challenges,”
the first lady said.
The three-hour work session featured presentations by each member of the Council, and was an opportunity to identify areas for further collaboration on initiatives underway and in development.
Education Commissioner Dr. LaVerne Terry highlighted the progress of the Olweus Anti-Bullying Program, including school-based interventions planned, and relayed progress of the Longitudinal Data System, now in Phase One of operations.
Police Commissioner Novelle E. Francis, Jr. spoke of recent arrests of gang members as part of his presentation on joint efforts in progress with other agencies of the Government of the Virgin Islands to curtail Territorial gang activity.
"Forward
Momentum"
Posted
by Julia Watthey on January 14, 2011 at 4:56
PM AST
On Friday, First Lady Cecile de Jongh addressed participants of the Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) conference, sponsored by the Department of Human Services and the Early Childhood Advisory Committee (ECAC) on St. Thomas. The launch of the QRIS initiative is one of many steps underway to expand and reform early childcare in the Virgin Islands and is designed to assess and improve the level of quality in early and school-age education and care programs.
“This is an issue that is near and dear to my heart. It is also one that the Administration continues to embrace, given the overwhelming importance of providing needed resources for children, starting from birth. We are committed to reforming childcare in the Virgin Islands, including increasing access to services and expanding programs, such as Headstart and early Headstart. Our work together is critical in continuing to lay a foundation for future generations,
benefiting children and families. There is clearly great momentum on this issue,”
the first lady said.
During the conference, the
first lady complimented the efforts of the ECAC and the Department of Human Services Office of Childcare and Regulatory Services for their diligent efforts, as well as the leadership of Commissioner Christopher Finch, to bring this initiative to the Territory. “We are not alone in bringing this level of technical assistance to the early childcare platform. Over twenty other states have already implemented a QRIS, and there is a vast amount of experience and expertise that will assist and guide the Territory’s development of its own, unique system. We are however, the first U.S. Territory to embark on the QRIS program, and we look forward to all that it will do to help families make more informed decisions about their children’s early education and care needs.”
The first lady also spoke of the ongoing work of the Children and Families Council, which she chairs, to comprehensively expand and reform childcare services in the Territory. “Our overarching goal is service delivery, and to make sure that we give all children a solid foundation so that they will do well in any school.”
The four goals of the Council include poverty alleviation (goal of 50% reduction by 2020), early childhood education and care, the coordination and streamlining of services, and leadership capacity building of community stakeholders. The Council includes partners in the public, private, non-profit, and faith-based communities. “It has to be all of us doing this together to effectuate real
progress,” she said.
Governor
de Jongh also attended the conference, and commented on the critical importance of the QRIS initiative as “putting our children first.” He also said that today’s launch of the system “puts us on a path of empowerment that is long overdue, one that has a direct impact on economic development, poverty alleviation, and community-building.” The
governor referred to conference participants as “trailblazers,” noting that their efforts were “breaking down long-standing silos that have existed for too long. Our own imagination and initiative are the keys to all that we will collectively achieve for our young people.”
A QRIS is a method to assess, improve, and communicate the level of quality in early childhood and school-age care settings, including standards; accountability measures; outreach; financial incentives; and family/consumer education. Implementing a QRIS in the Territory will improve professional development for childcare providers and will empower parents and families to make critical and informed decisions about early care and education facilities for their children.
The Virgin Islands QRIS project is supported by American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding.
